Demilitarizing a small African country: Rationale, necessary conditions, and financing

Most efforts directed at security sector reform (SSR) in African countries have had very little impact. This includes efforts aimed at a more rational allocation of tasks and resources in the sector. This article is concerned with the strongest form of SSR, the total disbanding of military forces. The best example of effective demilitarization is Costa Rica, which has flourished since it disbanded its military some 70 years ago. The strategic situation, the negative behavior of its defense force since its formation, and the opportunity costs of military expenditure provide a strong case for the demilitarization of Lesotho, a small country in southern Africa. Five necessary conditions for a successful demilitarization can be identified, namely its acceptance by a country’s citizens, a willing government, a detailed demilitarization plan, an implementing agency, and adequate finances. While these are interrelated, the article focuses on financial aspects, including the need for foreign assistance to finance the initial investment required. The peace dividend resulting from demilitarization could be used to provide a basic income grant to all adult citizens. We estimate that this would raise average incomes of the poorest 95 percent of households by around 20 percent per annum.