Do private security companies (PSCs) and private military companies (PMCs) play a positive or negative role in Africa? How should Africa respond to the private security industry? This book from the Institute for Security Studies looks at the growth of the private security sector in Africa and how to respond to it. It argues that Africa must address the reality of private security and military companies operating on the continent
The private security industry in Africa has permeated all spheres of life and increasingly supplants the state’s role in providing security. Africa’s response to this situation must be informed by an understanding of the industry and recognition that PSCs and PMCs are not necessarily mercenaries. Where PSCs and PMCs contribute to peace and stability in Africa they should be allowed to do so. However, African states should also work to ensure that the private security industry does not turn to mercenarism.
- Due to the weakness of the African state, African leaders often resort to the private security sector for assistance in order to maintain power. This presents an enormous challenge in terms of regulating the industry.
- The private security industry in Africa is influenced by the natural resources found in particular states. Some argue that PSCs prevent the development of state capacity to control national resources.
- Some argue that the PSCs and PMCs are an important part of peace and stability operations and that private contractors in such operations offer professionalism.
- The private security industry presents both great opportunities and severe risks. PSCs can improve the security situation where the state fails to do so. However, PSCs may aggravate or reinforce situations of insecurity.
- Regulation of the private security industry should be coupled with agreed minimum standards below which PSCs should not be allowed to operate. Whether this is feasible is another matter.
- Governments should meet their obligations to provide security for their citizens. They should develop and enforce effective regulatory mechanisms to enable PSCs to contribute to security and stability.
- There is a need for a ‘matrix approach’ to regulation of the private security industry, involving regulation at the industry, national, regional and international levels.
- States must meet their obligations under IHL in relation to the actions of PSCs and PMCs. Private security actors should be aware of their responsibilities and positions under IHL.
- The Swiss Initiative on Private Military and Security Companies provides a way forward for regulation of PSCs and PMCs. It promotes inter-governmental exchange, clarifies existing obligations and looks at options for regulation.
