The Central African Republic and Small Arms: A Regional Tinderbox

Between 1997 and 2006, the Central African Republic (CAR) hosted four international peacekeeping operations and witnessed conflicts in neighbouring states that have routinely made international headlines. Yet relatively little literature exists on the country. Central African Republic and Small Arms: A Regional Tinderbox has relevance far beyond the troubled, landlocked nation that is its subject. It challenges many widely held assumptions about security sector reform (SSR) that have continental and global implications. The study also provides a richer context for acquiring a better understanding of continuing threats to peace and security throughout the region. It underscores how conflicts are interrelated and how progress in one country can harm other countries if proper attention is not paid.

It is hoped that the study's findings will aid policymakers in devising new security sector reform and disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programmes—both in CAR and elsewhere.

Also available in FRENCH.