« Back to Provision

Military Reform – 2003

According to the Secretary General’s Report on UNAMSIL, the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed ForcesÕ effectiveness improved gradually as a result of training and restructuring support from IMATT, led by the UK.¹ The restructuring, which should result in the reduction of the armed force to 10,500 from 14,000, began in March 2003. The goal was expected to be met by 2007.

According to the Secretary General’s September 5, 2003 report on UNAMSIL, the army, in addition to downsizing, began reorganizing its structure in order to focus on border operations and timely deployment of reserves.² The expected discharge date for the first group of 1,000 soldiers was January 31, 2004.³

1. “Secretary General’s Report on UNAMSIL,” S/2003/321, March 17, 2003.
2. “Secretary General’s Report on UNAMSIL,” S/2003/863, September 5, 2003.
3. “Secretary General’s Report on UNAMSIL,” S/2003/1201, December 23, 2003.