The Center for Inclusive Security
Sector Governance (CISG)
Advancing inclusive Security Sector Reform and Governance through credible evidence, civilian perspectives, and regional policy insight.
Who We Are
The Center for Inclusive Security Sector Governance (CISG) is an independent, policy-oriented think tank advancing inclusive and accountable security governance in The Gambia and across West Africa. We work across the full security governance ecosystem – state institutions, oversight bodies, civil society, and communities to strengthen how security is designed, governed, delivered, and overseen. CISG was established to address a critical gap in reform efforts: security policies that focus on institutions, while overlooking governance relationships, political incentives, social trust, and inclusion. We reframe security not as a technical sector, but as a public governance system.
What We Do
Turning Security Reform Into Real Governance Outcomes
Research & Evidence
We generate independent data on trust, inclusion, and accountability in security systems.
Policy Engagement
We translate research into actionable policy advice for governments and partners.
Convening & Dialogue
We bring together state actors, civil society, and communities in complex reform spaces.
Training & Capacity Development
We translate research and evidence into the practical skills that actors across the security governance system need to drive and sustain reform.
What Makes Us Different
A Distinct Approach to Security Governance
Governance-First Approach
We analyze security through power, accountability, legitimacy, and political incentives not just institutional structures.
Inclusion as Core Function
Gender, youth, and civic participation are embedded into governance systems not treated as add-ons.
Evidence → Policy → Practice
We ensure research directly informs decisions, dialogue, and implementation.
Locally Grounded, Regionally Connected
Rooted in Gambian realities, with comparative insights across West Africa and ECOWAS contexts.
Trusted Neutral Convener
We operate as a credible, non-partisan platform in politically sensitive reform spaces.
Research and Policy Priorities
Our work is structured around key governance dimensions that shape security outcomes.
Democratic & Inclusive Security Governance
Community Security & Social Trust
Security, Gender & Climate Nexus
Political Economy of Security Governance
Regional & Comparative Security Governance
Peacebuilding & Conflict Prevention
Who We Serve
Supporting Decision-Makers and Reform Actors. CISG works with actors across the security governance ecosystem:
Governments & Institutions
Independent analysis and policy advisory support
Civil Society Organizations
Tools, data, and platforms to strengthen evidence-based engagement
Regional & International Partners
Context-driven insights and comparative research across West Africa
Communities & Local Actors
Amplifying civilian perspectives in national and regional security processes
Why CISG is needed?
What are the key issues with SSR in The Gambia?
The main issue is the lack of inclusive methods for implementing reforms. Despite improvements since 2017, significant gaps still exist in civilian oversight, integration of diverse groups, and financial backing for security sector reforms.
How does lack of oversight affect reforms?
Without proper oversight, SSR processes can become disconnected from reality. This means that while laws are in place, they aren’t effectively applied or monitored, leading to ineffective governance.
What role does inclusion play in SSR?
Inclusion is crucial but often overlooked. Effective SSR should involve all communities, including women and youth, to ensure that reforms reflect the needs and wishes of all citizens.
Why is regional learning important?
Learning from other ECOWAS countries can provide valuable insights. Without this regional exchange, Gambia misses key strategies that have worked elsewhere, hindering its reform efforts.
How can reforms be better financed?
Linking SSR policies to public finance is essential. This means budgeting for reforms in a way that they are not only prioritized but also sustainable over time.
What is needed for effective governance?
Effective governance requires viewing SSR as a continuous process. It’s important that it is integrated into the fabric of democratic institutions rather than seen as a one-time technical fix.
What does the reform process involve?
Reform involves multiple stages—planning, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring. Each step needs cohesive effort among all stakeholders to be effective.
How can communities be engaged?
Engaging communities means allowing their voices to be heard in the process. It’s about ensuring that reforms resonate with their needs and expectations, fostering trust and ownership.
Work With CISG
Advancing inclusive and accountable security governance requires credible
evidence, trusted partnerships, and sustained engagement.