Robert M. Perito
Director, Security Sector Governance Center
Contact
Please submit all media inquiries to interviews@usip.org or call 202.429.3869.
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Language: Chinese
Multimedia
Robert M. Perito directs USIP's Security Sector Governance Center of Innovation. He also directs the Institute's Haiti Program. Before joining the Institute, he was a Foreign Service officer with the U.S. Department of State, retiring with the rank of minister-counselor. He was deputy executive secretary of the National Security Council (1988-1989). Perito received a Presidential Meritorious Service Award in 1990 for leading the U.S. delegation in the Angola peace talks and two State Department superior honor awards.
Perito led the International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program at the U.S. Department of Justice, which trained police in international peace operations (1995-2001). Perito was a Peace Corps volunteer in Nigeria (1965-67).
Perito has taught at Princeton, American and George Mason universities. He holds a B.A. in international relations from Denver University and an M.A. in peace operations policy from George Mason University. Perito has given extensive interviews on Haiti, Afghanistan, and Iraq to major media outlets. Perito is the author of Where is the Lone Ranger When We Need Him? America’s Search for a Post Conflict Security Force; The American Experience with Police in Peace Operations; and co-author of Police in War: Fighting Insurgency, Terrorism and Violent Crime.
Publications & Tools
June 2012
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Olive Branch Post
by Stephanie Flamenbaum
USIP's Pakistan Program and its Security Sector Governance Center welcomed a delegation of senior Pakistani police officers recently for a discussion on police and law enforcement challenges in Pakistan. USIP's expertise on law enforcement in conflict and post-conflict environments formed the backbone of the afternoon's discussion. Countries: Pakistan
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Media, Conflict, and Peacebuilding, Security Sector Reform/Governance, Youth and Peacebuilding
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May 2012
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
This report describes the efforts of the NATO-led coalition forces in Afghanistan to create an Afghan constabulary force to control urban violence and serve as a counterinsurgency force. |
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May 2012
The U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) held its third annual conference on security sector governance on May 10, drawing in activists from North Africa and the Middle East as well as former U.S. ambassadors to the region to assess the political and security-sector challenges arising from the “Arab Awakening.” |
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May 2012
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Olive Branch Post
by Robert Perito
Currently, international attention is rightly focused on implementing the peace plan put forward by former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan and preventing Syria from sliding further into full scale civil war. Ending the conflict has proven to be a difficult task as fighting has continued, while introduction of U.N. monitors has proven problematic. Countries: Syria
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Political Reform, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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April 2012
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert visited USIP April 12 to discuss the India-Pakistan relationship, security sector governance and North Korea and the Pacific Rim. Countries: India, North Korea, Pakistan
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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April 2012
Security Sector Transformation in a Post-Conflict Liberia Liberian Defense Minister Hon. Brownie Samukai outlined plans to have the nation’s security forces and institutions fully operational by 2014. Liberia's security sector transformation can provide a number of lessons for the United States in Afghanistan, which will also take on responsibility for its security in 2014. Countries: Africa, Liberia
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Economics and Conflict, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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April 2012
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Practitioner Tool
by Robert Perito & Victoria Stattel
In 2010, the Department of Defense launched the Ministry of Defense Advisors (MoDA) program to provide experienced civilian managers from its staff to advise their counterparts in the defense and interior ministries in Afghanistan. This report examines the selection, training, and deployment of MoDA advisors as well as the strengths and shortcomings of the program. It incorporates the insights of returned advisors, MoDA program staff and instructors, and senior U.S. government officials in Washington and members of NATO Training Mission – Afghanistan (NTM-A). It was prepared at the request of the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Partnership Strategy and Stability Operations. |
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March 2012
The monthly Haiti Newsletter provides updates on the current situation, highlights of USIP's field work, events, multimedia, publications, and news about Haiti. |
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March 2012
USIP hosted a briefing for an American commander deploying to the Horn of Africa. |
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March 2012
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News Feature
by Alison Laporte-Oshiro
The U.S. police assistance program in Iraq broke new ground in three notable and far-reaching ways, said a panel of distinguished experts at USIP on February 29, 2012. The event, entitled “Policing Iraq,” was co-hosted by USIP and the Institute for the Study of War. |
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February 2012
The United States Institute of Peace (USIP) and the Institute for the Study of War co-hosted a critical lessons learned forum on policing in Iraq moderated by Robert Perito, director of USIP's Security Sector Governance and author of the new Special Report, “The Iraq Federal Police: U.S. Police Building Under Fire.” Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Political Reform, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 2012
The monthly Haiti Newsletter provides updates on the current situation, highlights of USIP's field work, events, multimedia, publications, and news about Haiti. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Human Rights, Political Reform, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 2012
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On the Issues
by Bob Perito
Bob Perito, director of USIP's Security Governance Center of Innovation, recently returned from Tunisia and Libya, where he met with police, military and government officials to examine the current status of the security sector in each country. |
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January 2012
The monthly Haiti Newsletter provides updates on the current situation, highlights of USIP's field work, events, multimedia, publications, and news about Haiti. |
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December 2011
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On the Issues
by Robert Perito
Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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November 2011
USIP hosted an expert panel Nov. 16 to discuss police reform and the need to try new ways that fit the task. USIP also published a new Special Report, "Police Corruption: What Past Scandals Teach About Current Challenges," by David Bayley and USIP's Bob Perito. Countries: Afghanistan, Chile, Haiti, Iraq, Libya
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Political Reform, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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November 2011
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Special Report
by David Bayley and Robert Perito
Police corruption is a universal problem, but it is a particular challenge in countries in crisis and emerging from conflict. This report is based on the lessons gleaned from a review of public commissions of inquiry into police misconduct worldwide and their possible application in stability operations, such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan. Countries: Afghanistan, Haiti, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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October 2011
In 2009, USIP was invited to participate in a U.S. government interagency effort to capture and institutionalize lessons learned and best practices from the U.S. experience with PRTs. From 2009-2011, USIP interviewed 200 returning government, military, and NGO representatives who had served in PRTs in Iraq and Afghanistan. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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October 2011
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On the Issues
by Robert Perito
Robert Perito, director USIP’s Security Sector Governance Center, provides some context for Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton's visit to Libya. |
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October 2011
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
In Iraq, the U.S. learned that setting up an effective local constabulary during conflict requires broad agreement on the police force’s roles and mission, a clear division of police and military responsibilities, and role models who can train and mentor candidate officers on their moral obligation to protect society. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance, Training
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April 2011
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On the Issues
by Robert M. Perito
USIP’s Bob Perito discusses how internal security agencies must change in countries transitioning from authoritarianism to democracy. |
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April 2011
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On the Issues
by Robert M. Perito
USIP’s Bob Perito discusses Haitian President-elect Michel Martelly’s recent visit to Washington, DC and what kind of policies the new Haitian government may pursue. |
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April 2011
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News Feature
by Gordon Lubold
USIP hosted a panel discussion April 19 on the state of Pakistan’s security forces that looked at the political and security dynamics at play and how they affect the military. |
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April 2011
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On the Issues
by Robert M. Perito
USIP’s Bob Perito discusses the recently released preliminary results of Haiti’s presidential election and what it means for Haiti’s recovery. |
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January 2011
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News Feature
by Gordon Lubold
The thrust of tonight's State of the Union speech will be on the economy, jobs and civility in political discourse, with members of both parties sitting side-by-side in a display of bipartisanship. Read more of USIP's preview of Obama's State of the Union address. |
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January 2011
One year after the January 12, 2010 earthquake, Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince remains in ruins. It is imperative that the current crisis is resolved so that reconstruction can move forward. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Economics and Conflict, Health and Peacebuilding, Human Rights, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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January 2011
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Peace Brief
by Brooke Stedman
This report is based on views expressed during an August 31, 2010, event, “Security after the Quake? Addressing Violence and Rape in Haiti,” hosted by the U.S. Institute of Peace’s Gender and Peacebuilding Center and the Haiti Working Group. |
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January 2011
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On the Issues
by Robert Perito
Robert Perito, director of USIP’s Haiti program, reflects on Haiti's challenges and progress of the past year. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Human Rights, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities
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December 2010
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Peace Brief
by Robert Maguire
This Peace Brief is based on a public forum and meeting of USIP’s Haiti Working Group on October 29, 2010. The featured speaker was Michèle Duvivier Pierre-Louis, former Prime Minster of Haiti (2008-2009). Robert Maguire, Chair of USIP’s Haiti Working Group and Associate Professor of International Affairs at Trinity Washington University, was a discussant. Robert Perito, director of USIP’s Haiti Program, served as moderator. |
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November 2010
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News Feature
by Mimi Wiggins Perreault
As Haiti struggles to recover from the devastating January earthquake, former Prime Minister Michèle Pierre-Louis said at an event at the United States Institute of Peace that in order for Haiti to build back better, the process must start within Haiti itself. The USIP event “Is Haiti Building Back Better?” held on October 29, 2010 focused on the challenges that have developed in the nine months since the January 12th earthquake. |
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November 2010
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On the Issues
by Robert Perito
Robert Perito, director of USIP's Initiative on Security Sector Governance under the Centers of Innovation, discusses recent developments in Haiti, and the challenges facing the country moving forward. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Political Reform, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities
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July 2010
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
Six months after the Haiti earthquake, the official statistics remain difficult to fully comprehend. Some 222,750 people were killed, and 300,000 injured. More than 1.3 million were displaced. Total damage was $7.8 billion. Losses from the quake were historic. |
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June 2010
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito and Casie Copeland
Five months after Haiti’s January 12th earthquake, the situation on the ground remains critical. With the arrival of hurricane season, the failure to provide adequate shelter and instill hope for a better future threatens stability. |
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May 2010
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito and Madeline Kristoff
Corruption in the security sector damages society’s trust in the government. Donors must coordinate on anti-corruption programs and make sure not to engage in corruption themselves. Issue Areas: Security Sector Reform/Governance
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May 2010
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Book
by Robert M. Perito
Peace, stability, and humanitarian operations typically involve the interaction of international organizations (IOs), nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), the U.S. government, and the U.S. military. The Institute’s highly successful Guide to IGOs, NGOs and the Military in Peace and Relief Operations, which was based on peace operations in the Balkans following the Cold War, has been instrumental in facilitating interaction between IOs, NGOs, and the military. This online version includes updated information and resources. Countries: Afghanistan, Haiti, Iraq, Libya, South Sudan, Sudan, The Two Sudans, Tunisia, Yemen
| Issue Areas: Education, Mediation and Facilitation, Negotiation and Diplomacy, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance, Training
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January 2010
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito and Members of USIP's Haiti Team
USIP assesses the damage done by the devastating earthquake, and recommends strategies for Haiti’s recovery and reconstruction. |
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January 2010
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
A new USIP report argues the importance of legislative oversight for effective security services, and why the U.S. Congress is a model for foreign legislatures. Countries: United States
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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August 2009
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
In seven years, the Afghan National Police forces have grown to 68,000 personnel, with a target end strength of 86,000. The ANP includes the uniformed police force, which is responsible for general police duties, and specialized police forces, which deal with public order, counternarcotics, terrorism, and border control. Countries: Afghanistan
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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August 2009
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito and Madeline Kristoff
As part of a push to bolster security in Iraq, the U.S. government declared 2006 the “Year of the Police” and focused on building the institutional capacity of the Ministry of the Interior, which supervises and trains Iraq’s police force. However, even by 2007, numerous reports described Iraq’s Ministry of the Interior as crippled by corruption and sectarianism, and furthermore represented a major obstacle to developing an effective police force in the country. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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May 2009
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito
In 2009, Haiti has been the subject of an unprecedented diplomatic initiative led by the United Nations. In rapid succession, Haiti received visits from the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, the UN Security Council, former President Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and numerous senior delegations from Caribbean and South American countries |
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May 2009
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
Efforts to create an effective interior ministry and a professional and community oriented police force cannot succeed unless they are part of an overall effort for security sector reform. SSR, a relatively new concept, refers to the highly political and complex task of transforming the institutions and organizations responsible for dealing with security threats to the state and its citizens. |
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April 2009
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Peace Brief
by Liz Panarelli
International actors in Security Sector Reform (SSR) are increasingly taking on roles as “advisors” to Ministries of Interior, Defense, and Justice. Rather than directly implement changes necessary for SSR, these advisors must persuasively articulate suggestions to their local counterparts. Advisors’ success depends on their ability to convey recommendations in a manner that makes change acceptable to their advisees. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 2009
The Iraq PRT program has highlighted the challenges that the U.S. government faces in conducting operations in conflicted environments. The Iraq PRT Project collected insights and lessons learned from government, military, and non-governmental officials. Interviews were conducted by the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training under a contract with the Institute of Peace. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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January 2009
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito
While the U.S. and world economies are slowing markedly, Security Sector Reform (SSR) is a growth industry for the private sector. U.S. government employees may set SSR policy and design projects, but implementation is extensively outsourced to private contractors. |
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December 2008
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Peace Brief
by Robert Maguire
In July 2006, Haitian poet and historian Jean-Claude Martineau spoke at USIP and said that Haiti is the only country in the world with a last name—“Haiti, poorest country in the western hemisphere” —as described in the media. Sadly, in the two years since, conditions have worsened. Four severe storms that struck Haiti in September 2008 only exacerbated the already critical problem of the country’s poverty. |
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November 2008
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
In September 2008, four hurricanes and tropical storms—Fay, Gustav, Hannah and Ike—slammed into Haiti with devastating force. Nearly 800 people were killed, 300 remain missing and more than 500 were injured. |
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September 2008
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Special Report
by Michael Dziedzic and Robert Perito
The UN mission in Haiti's successful campaign against the country's gangs set a precedent for future missions. Based on field research, authors Michael Dziedzic and Robert Perito explore the conduct of military and police operations, Haitians' overwhelmingly positive views of the UN intervention and lessons learned. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, WMD, Nonproliferation, and Arms Control
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September 2008
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Special Report
by Sean McFate
Security sector reform (SSR) is essential in the transition from war to peace in conflict zones and is a topic of urgent importance. This report discusses definitions of SSR, the field's emergence, and challenges in current SSR implementation, among other topics. |
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July 2008
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Congressional Testimony
by Robert M. Perito
Robert Perito testified at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing examining the military’s role in foreign policy. Perito spoke to the application and implementation processes of the 1207 Program of the National Defense Authorization Act. Issue Areas: Security Sector Reform/Governance
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July 2008
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
This Special Report report details USIP's assessment of the "1207 Program," an example of the U.S. military's growing involvement in integrated "whole-of-government" approaches to U.S. security assistance programs. Countries: Nepal
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May 2008
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
Iraq's Ministry of Interior has been fraught with rivalries since 2003. How can it address these challenges? Countries: Iraq
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February 2008
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito
In January 2007, President Bush announced the doubling of Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT) in Iraq and the creation of PRTs embedded with combat teams. One year later, what have these unique organizations achieved? Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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January 2008
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito and Jasenka Jocic
Haiti has recently worked to enact the constitution of 1987. However, this document is fraught with ambiguous, perplexing, and legally cumbersome measures. |
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October 2007
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Congressional Testimony
by Robert M. Perito
Robert Perito testified before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations alongside the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction, Stuart Bowen. Perito summarized the three functions PRTs perform—governance, reconstruction and security—and offered recommendations to improve their operations and effectiveness. |
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August 2007
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
The first obligation of an international intervention force in a peace or stability operation is to provide security for the civilian population. Inevitably the arrival of foreign military forces is followed by a breakdown of public order. The United States should carry through plans to create a federal-level police reserve for international police and stability operations. |
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June 2007
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito and Greg Maly
At their White House meeting on May 8, 2007, President Bush promised Haitian President Rene Preval that the United States would do more to help Haiti fight drugs and drug traffickers. What is the effect of narcotics trafficking on Haiti's security and stability? What is the nature of U.S. counter-narcotics assistance? Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law
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June 2007
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
Over the past year, Haiti has witnessed the democratic election of a new parliament, the return of relative security, and the first hints of economic recovery. Still, massive problems remain to challenge Haiti and Haiti’s primary international partner, the United States. |
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May 2007
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito, Michael Dziedzic, and Beth Cole
In the State of the Union address this year, President Bush joined calls for a U.S. civilian reserve corps. In mid-2006, USIP convened federal law enforcement officials and chiefs of police from across the United States to examine the range of choices for creating the police component of a civilian reserve corps that could rapidly deploy to states emerging from conflict. |
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March 2007
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Congressional Testimony
by Robert M. Perito
Robert Perito testified before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations on the progress and challenges toward transitioning security responsibilities to the government of Iraq. |
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March 2007
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
In January 2007, President Bush announced that the United States would double the number of Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs), small civilian-military units that assist provincial and local governments to govern effectively and deliver essential services, as part of his plan for a "New Way Forward" in Iraq. This report examines the U.S. experience with PRTs in Iraq, notes shortcomings, and suggests ways they could be more effective. |
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February 2007
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
In January 2007, President Bush announced an expansion of the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) program to help accelerate Iraq's transition to self-reliance. How can PRTs—intended to close the gap between civilian and military efforts—be evaluted effectively? Countries: Iraq
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February 2007
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
Although several milestones have been accomplished in training and equipping security and police forces in Iraq, achievement of these goals masks a troubling reality regarding the loyalty and quality of these Iraqi forces. Countries: Iraq
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January 2007
The Sudan Experience Project Oral History Library contains the transcripts of nearly 100 interviews with those who negotiated and who are implementing the CPA. These first person accounts and the lessons learned from their experience are a substantial contribution to our understanding of the challenges of negotiating and implementing complex peace agreements. Countries: South Sudan, Sudan, The Two Sudans
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Mediation and Facilitation, Negotiation and Diplomacy, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law
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August 2006
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito and Greg Maly
How can the Haitian diaspora help Haiti's new government? Can they help resolve the chronic social conflict that has troubled the Haitian republic since its inception? |
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July 2006
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito and Emily Hsu
Haiti's new government faces an enormous economic challenge. Since a brief spike in the 1970's, Haiti's economy has experienced a steady decline as a result of rapacious government policies and, possibly well intentioned, but destructive international sanctions. |
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June 2006
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Peace Brief
by Robert M. Perito
Reducing criminal violence would advance stability in Iraq, increase popular support for Iraq's new government, and improve police-community relations. This can best be done through an effective program of U.S.-supported institutional development. Countries: Iraq
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May 2006
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Peace Brief
by Robert Perito
Two years after Jean-Bertrand Aristide's ouster by armed revolt, Haiti appears ready to turn a page in its turbulent political history. What is the nature of the challenges Haiti's new leadership will face in governing a country traumatized by chronic violence and instability? |
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November 2005
The experiences of Americans who served in Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) in Afghanistan provide important lessons for current and future peace and stability operations. Provincial Reconstruction Teams are small, joint, civil-military organizations whose mission is to promote good governance, improved security and reconstruction. In November 2005, there were 22 PRTs in Afghanistan: nine were directed by the U.S. and countries belonging to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force directed the other 13. Countries: Afghanistan
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October 2005
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
Important lessons for current and future U.S. peace and stability operations can be found in the experiences of Americans who served in Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) in Afghanistan. PRTs are small, joint civilian-military organizations whose mission is to promote governance, security, and reconstruction throughout the country. |
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April 2005
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April 2005
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Special Report
by Robert M. Perito
Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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June 2004
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May 2004
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Congressional Testimony
by Robert M. Perito
Congressional Testimony by Robert M. Perito, Coordinator, Iraq Experience Project, Professional Training Program, U.S. Institute of Peace. |
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April 2004
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Special Report
by Robert Perito, Michael Dziedzic, Beth DeGrasse
Establishing public order in the aftermath of an international military intervention is "job one." The success of all other activities hinges on getting this job done. Military combat units, however, are neither trained nor equipped for riot control and law enforcement functions. No rapidly deployable U.S. civilian capacity exists to provide the full spectrum of rule of law functions—from intelligence to incarceration—needed to support military forces engaged in peace and stability operations. |
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March 2004
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Special Report
by Laurel Miller and Robert Perito
In most of Afghanistan, the rule of law has never been strong, but after 23 years of warfare it has been displaced almost completely by the 'rule of the gun.' In most of the country, regional power-holders, whether they hold official positions or not, effectively exercise political, police and judicial authority through their control of militia forces. |
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January 2004
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Congressional Testimony
by Said Tayeb Jawad, Barnett Rubin
A Special Current Issues Briefing on Capitol Hill. |
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January 2004
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Book
by Robert M. Perito
A penetrating study of U.S. policy on peace operations, examining the challenges of establishing sustainable security in postconflict environments in places like the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Robert Perito chronicles the history of American conceptions and misconceptions regarding peacekeeping forces. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq, United States
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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July 2003
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Congressional Testimony
by Amatzia Baram, Robert M. Perito, George Ward, Paul Stares
An Institute Congressional Briefing. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities
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April 2003
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Special Report
by Robert Perito
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April 2002
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Special Report
by William Lewis, Edward Marks, and Robert Perito
In the post-Cold War period, there has been an increase in the number of violent intra-state conflicts. Consequently, the international community has increased its focus on international peacekeeping and post-conflict reconstruction. Issue Areas: Security Sector Reform/Governance
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Events
May 10, 2012
On May 10, 2012, the USIP Center of Innovation for Security Sector Governance held its third annual conference. For the second year running, the conference focused on the pressing question of security sector reform in North Africa and the Middle East. |
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April 4, 2012
On April 4, 2012, USIP hosted a public event on Security Sector Transformation in Post-Conflict Liberia featuring the Liberian Defense Minister, Hon. Brownie Samukai. He outlined plans to have the nation’s security forces and institutions fully operational by 2014, and discussed implications of the transition for Liberia and the sub-region. Countries: Liberia
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 29, 2012
On February 29, 2012, the United States Institute of Peace and the Institute for the Study of War co-hosted a panel of distinguished experts who discussed the history of the Iraqi police and the U.S. police assistance program in Iraq. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 15, 2012
The Haitian court’s decision not to prosecute Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier for human rights violations and crimes against humanity has refocused international attention on the problem of justice in Haiti. At every level, courts are dysfunctional and corruption endemic. Street crime, drug trafficking, rape and gang violence persist despite Haiti’s overcrowded prisons. Impunity remains a major obstacle to Haiti’s recovery. On February 15, 2012, USIP hosted a public event to discuss justice in Haiti and the path forward for judicial reform. |
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December 13, 2011
Peace agreements are not just about achieving an end to violence-they can also establish significant frameworks for regulating future practice. In this context, one important goal is to address likely drivers of conflict. High on the list of conflict drivers are dishonesty and abuses of power by those who are holding or seeking positions of authority, phenomena that can persist and even become more prevalent following a transition. Webcast: This event will be webcast live beginning at 2:00pm on December 13, 2011 at www.usip.org/webcast/confronting-corruption. Join the conversation on Twitter with #USIP. Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention
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November 29, 2011
On November 29, 2011, the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted a panel of distinguished experts who discussed the situation of women in Haiti and their role in reconstruction. The event featured a delegation of women leaders from Haiti and an exhibition of photos taken by Haitian women depicting their lives in the tent cities around Port-au-Prince. |
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November 16, 2011
Police corruption is a universal challenge in peacebuilding. On November 16, 2011, USIP hosted a panel of distinguished experts who discussed the root causes and potential remedies. Countries: Afghanistan, Haiti, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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October 12, 2011
Renewed internal conflict threatens Haiti's recovery. On October 12, 2011, a panel of distinguished experts discussed the sources of conflict in Haiti and the challenges facing its security institutions. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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September 13, 2011
On September 13, 2011, the Latin American and Hemispheric Studies Program of George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs and USIP hosted a meeting featuring the Honorable Michaelle Jean, special envoy to Haiti for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and former governor general of Canada. Countries: Haiti
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September 12, 2011
In the aftermath of war, two processes are vital to successfully manage the transition to stability: disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) and security sector reform (SSR). On September 12, 2011, the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted a panel of distinguished experts with combined experience implementing DDR and SSR in Afghanistan, Iraq, Liberia, the Balkans, Somalia and Haiti. Countries: Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Haiti, Iraq, Kosovo, Liberia
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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July 8, 2011
Seven U.S. federal agencies spend billions annually on training and equipping foreign police. On July 8, field experts from USAID, the Justice Department, the Defense Department, and USIP examined innovative new approaches to U.S. foreign police assistance and introduced USAID's new Field Guide. Countries: Afghanistan
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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June 30, 2011
On June 30, 2011, the U.S. Institute of Peace hosted an international conference on Security Sector Transformation in North Africa and the Middle East. |
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May 25, 2011
USIP hosted a panel of distinguished experts to discuss the various aspects of security - political, economic, personal and criminal - in Haiti. |
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April 19, 2011
After heavy U.S. investment in Pakistan’s defense forces since 9/11, there is growing interest in the state of the broader security sector in Pakistan. A panel of distinguished experts discussed the challenges impeding security sector reform in Pakistan and the implications for the region. |
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February 9, 2011
On February 9, 2011, USIP launched a new Special Report entitled "Reforming Pakistan's Police and Law Enforcement Infrastructure: Is It Too Flawed to Fix?" Panelists examined the obstacles to reform and highlighted the importance of civilian law enforcement in Pakistan in light of the challenges the country faces. Countries: Pakistan
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Political Reform, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 3, 2011
In November 2005, the United Nations announced the completion of its program to disarm and demobilize more than 60,000 members of the Afghanistan Military Forces. How did the simultaneous Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) and Security Sector Reform (SSR) impact the Afghan government’s ability to assist Coalition Forces to create a safe and secure environment? |
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January 19, 2011
The U.S. Institute of Peace, in partnership with Partners for Democratic Change, hosted a public event on January 19th highlighting the challenges faced by militaries in the 21st century regarding the role of women in modern armed forces and how to bring authentic gender mainstreaming into the military. Additionally, panelists discussed the role that civil society can play in security sector transformation, especially as it pertains to gender. Countries: Africa, Senegal
| Issue Areas: Gender and Peacebuilding, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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December 16, 2010
USIP featured an introductory briefing of the Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review (QDDR) followed by a meeting of USIP's Security Sector Reform Working Group to discuss findings of a forthcoming USIP Special Report on "The European Union’s Experience With Security Sector Reform." Countries: Europe, United States
| Issue Areas: Negotiation and Diplomacy, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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December 7, 2010
Endangered by a cholera epidemic that has claimed thousands of lives, Haiti held elections for president and parliament on November 28. A panel of experts discussed the current situation in a public forum co-hosted by USIP’s Haiti Program and USIP’s Working Group on Health and Peacebuilding. |
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October 29, 2010
The slogan “Build Back Better” has come to symbolize the commitment to help Haiti’s government and people address the roots of poverty and instability. Former Haitian Prime Minister Michèle Pierre-Louis shared her views on Haiti’s future. |
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October 13, 2010
In Haiti, the challenge of earthquake recovery has been compounded by the need to prepare for presidential elections on November 28. A panel of experts discussed the challenges facing the Haitian government and the international community. |
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October 6, 2010
A panel of experts discussed current U.S. policy toward security assistance and reviewed a new USIP Special Report entitled "Institutionalizing Security Sector Reform: Options for the USG” by Gregory Hermsmeyer.
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June 3, 2010
Haiti's reconstruction presents challenges and opportunities. How are international efforts contributing to lasting stability and growth? Experts addressed these questions and identified key issues on the horizon for Haiti. |
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June 2, 2010
Maritime security adds an extra dimension to security sector reform (SSR). All the aspects of land SSR apply, but there is an additional need for capacity and resources to counter threats of piracy, terrorism, pollution and trafficking. |
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May 27, 2010
U.S. attempts in Iraq and Afghanistan have been unsuccessful in training local police to deal with insurgency, terrorism and criminal violence. How are effective, accountable, and legitimate police forces crafted in conflict states? Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance, Training
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April 8, 2010
How will the March 31 Donors' Conference contribute to sustainable reconstruction in Haiti? What role will the United States play in rebuilding Haiti? Countries: Haiti, United States
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Youth and Peacebuilding
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March 5, 2010
Both DDR and SSR address the heart of the relationship between a state and its people: political control of armed force. What are the connections between DDR and SSR, and how can these be implemented? |
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February 25, 2010
Police and military forces are the first line of defense against corruption, but they can also engage in corrupt practices. What are the best practices for dealing with corruption, particularly in countries emerging from conflict? USIP's Security Sector Reform Working Group discussed these questions. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 25, 2010
Six weeks after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated Port-au-Prince, what are the top priorities for donors and for Haiti? What role will the United States play in the coming weeks, months, and perhaps years? Countries: Haiti, United States
| Issue Areas: Conflict Analysis and Prevention, Economics and Conflict, Gender and Peacebuilding, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law
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January 19, 2010
This discussion at the Inter-American Dialogue examined the damage that has been done to Haiti and its people by the January 12th earthquake and the challenges the country now confronts. Countries: Haiti, United States
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Health and Peacebuilding, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities
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December 15, 2009
Local ownership is essential for successful security sector reform (SSR), but donor countries often determine priorities and programs. What practical steps can policymakers and practitioners take to encourage local ownership of reform efforts? USIP's SSR Working Group hosted an expert panel to discuss this issue. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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December 10, 2009
On November 10, the Haitian government confirmed Jean-Max Bellerive as its sixth Prime Minister since 2004. What does this change portend for Haiti's future? How are the international community and diaspora responding to this change? |
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October 29, 2009
In Afghanistan and Iraq, Congress provides oversight and resources for U.S. programs to reform local military and police forces. This process is critical to U.S. success, but is little understood. USIP's Security Sector Reform Working Group examined the role of Congress in ensuring that security assistance is effective, serves U.S interests and creates democratic security forces. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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October 14, 2009
On October 13, the mandate for United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) was renewed. A panel of experts discussed the U.N.'s future in Haiti and the continuing need for peacekeeping forces. |
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September 10, 2009
At least 3,000 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are operating in Haiti. Struggling with insufficient capacity in the face of overwhelming poverty and environmental disasters, the government has been unable to coordinate or capitalize on what some in Haiti refer to as a “Republic of NGOs." |
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July 15, 2009
Nearly a decade ago with the adoption of Security Council Resolution 1325, the United Nations and member states made a commitment to promote the participation of women in decision-making levels in conflict resolution and peace processes, expand the role and contribution of women in UN field-based operations, and to integrate gender perspectives and training into peacekeeping. Where are we now, what has worked, what has not worked, and why? The panelists will address these questions on women as peacekeepers, and other policy-related questions. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Education, Gender and Peacebuilding, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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June 18, 2009
In 2007, the Los Angeles Times reported that Iraq's interior ministry (MOI) had become a "federation of oligarchs" where various floors were controlled by rival militias and power struggles were resolved by assassinations in the parking lot. Today, the MOI is responsible for nearly 500,000 members of Iraq's security forces, but still struggles despite major US and UK efforts. A panel of experts discussed the current situation in Iraq at a meeting of USIP's Security Sector Reform Working Group. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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May 27, 2009
Despite the $10 billion spent on training, the Afghan police are "the weak link in the security chain," according to Special Envoy Richard Holbrooke. Police expansion is a major component of President Obama's strategy for Afghanistan, but there is widespread concern about this program. USIP's Security Sector Reform Working Group hosted a panel presentation to discuss this issue. Countries: Afghanistan
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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May 6, 2009
Haiti has received unprecedented diplomatic attention this year, with visits from the UN Secretary General, Secretary of State and former President Clinton, and the UN Security Council. The April 14 international donors' conference yielded $324 million in new pledges. The Senate elections saw little violence, but low turnout. Has Haiti reached a genuine turning point? |
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March 13, 2009
Effective ministerial advising is a lynchpin of successful security sector reform (SSR). However, the U.S. lacks an integrated, cohesive strategy for advising Are there "best practices" for ministerial advisors? Can advisors effectively apply these practices across contexts? A panel of experts discussed this issue from their various perspectives. Countries: Afghanistan, Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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January 30, 2009
At the request of the UN Secretary General, Professor Paul Collier, author of the best selling book The Bottom Billion, traveled to Haiti to assist the government to develop a strategy for generating economic security. Professor Collier's findings, which relies on U.S. trade incentives to generate economic growth, could provide a blueprint for donor assistance to Haiti. Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict
| Programs: Grants & Fellowships, Jennings Randolph Senior Fellowship Program
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January 23, 2009
Provision of police and military advisors, plus logistics and support personnel is a multi-billion dollar industry. Should we worry about private sector involvement in what had been a government function? At this meeting of the SSR Working Group, a panel of experts discussed this issue from their various perspectives. |
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December 9, 2008
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December 4, 2008
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November 19, 2008
The U.S. government and the U.N. have moved ahead with formalizing their work on Security Sector Reform (SSR). They have also begun to concentrate on the challenges of assessments and planning in SSR operations. At the same time, it is becoming clear that commercial security firms will be asked to play an important role. A panel of experts discussed these topics from their various perspectives in this meeting of the SSR Working Group. |
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October 28, 2008
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October 15, 2008
In rebuilding efforts, integration of gender is key to operational effectiveness, local ownership, and civilian oversight. Security Sector Reform not only creates more employment/involvement opportunities generally, it also increases the participation of women within the security sector. This meeting of USIP's SSR Working Group marked the official American launch of the Gender & Security Sector Reform Toolkit developed by the Geneva Centre for Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF). |
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July 11, 2008
A number of international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Bank, and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, have attempted to define Security Sector Reform (SSR) and to implement programs. In this second meeting of USIP'S SSR Working Group, a panel of experts discussed their various approaches to SSR and how they compare to the views of the U.S. government. Issue Areas: Security Sector Reform/Governance
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May 22, 2008
Security Sector Reform (SSR) is the fulcrum between war and peace in post-conflict states. Paradoxically, there is broad support for effective SSR, but limited agreement on the meaning of the term. In this inaugural meeting of USIP's SSR Working Group, A panel of experts discussed common defnitions, unifying principles, key concepts, planning guidelines, and best practices for SSR. |
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April 7, 2008
In its September 6, 2007 report to Congress, the Independent Commission on the Security Forces of Iraq stated that Iraq's Interior Ministry was "dysfunctional and sectarian" and the National Police should be "disbanded and reorganized." How did this happen? What has happened following the report? A panel of experts addressed these questions. Countries: Iraq
| Issue Areas: Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law, Security Sector Reform/Governance
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February 5, 2008
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December 19, 2007
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December 6, 2007
Countries: South Sudan, Sudan, The Two Sudans
| Programs: Jennings Randolph Senior Fellowship Program
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November 28, 2007
Haiti Working Group Public Event |
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June 8, 2007
Countries: Haiti
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April 13, 2007
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February 7, 2007
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January 24, 2007
Countries: Haiti
| Issue Areas: Economics and Conflict, Post-Conflict and Peacekeeping Activities, Rule of Law
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September 29, 2006
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July 25, 2006
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March 24, 2006
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February 22, 2006
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October 26, 2005
Speakers at this forum described the American and Afghan experience with Provincial Reconstruction Teams. These innovative and often controversial civil-military organizations are now an established feature of the U.S. and NATO's effort to improve security, extend the authority of the central government, and promote economic prosperity in Afghanistan. |
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April 14, 2005
Important lessons for future U.S. peace and stability operations have emerged in Iraq and Afghanistan. This is particularly true in the critical areas of public security, governance and reconstruction. |
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September 3, 2002
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Additional Selected Works
Multimedia
- PRTs in Iraq Improved Over Time (NPR's All Things Considered, December 12, 2011)
- The Quake (PBS's Frontline, March 30, 2010)
- "No End in Sight" (Robert Perito was interviewed in this documentary, which was nominated for an Academy Award and won an award at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival)
- Gangs of Iraq (PBS's Frontline, April 17, 2007)
- "Truth, War and Consequences" (PBS's Frontline, September 5, 2003)