Critical Study on the Relationship Between Community Security and Sustainable Peace in the Northern Region of Uganda

Abstract

This study sought to understand the relationship between community security and sustainable peace in Northern Uganda and how these relationships manifest and is perceived by the people most affected by the incessant conflict in the region. To achieve the purpose of this study, four research questions were raised and answered, namely; How does an effective police force help in achieving sustainable peace? What role does the judiciary play in achieving sustainable peace? And, What role does community-based security play in ensuring sustainable peace? To answer these questions, a mixed method approach was adopted where both survey and interview guides were used. The finding showed a positive correlation between community security and sustainable peace, r(381)= .705, P<.001, indicating that the higher the level of community security, the more likely sustainable peace will be achieved. This was also supported by the responses gotten from the interviews. The researcher recommended that the government should ensure the equitable distribution of security apparatus throughout the country instead of favouring one region over the other. People should be able to access the police force without fear or intimidation and irrespective of their economic or professional status. Also, there is a need to create a government-recognized and active local police force that sees the safety and security of community members. Finally, it is important that community members feel the government and police work for them in the sense that justice must be seen to be fair, objective and effective. The government, judiciary and law enforcement must ensure that they are not used as a tool to intimidate or oppress the less advantaged in society and that those charged are given a fair trial.