Hybrid security

Hybrid security is a system in which state institutions and non-state actors share authority and responsibilities for providing security.

Connect

Security governance: The formal and informal arrangements through which security is directed, provided, and held accountable. Hybrid security is one way security governance distributes provision beyond state institutions.
Local peace committee: A local body that brings community representatives together to prevent or resolve conflict. These committees can connect community mediation with state peace and security institutions.
Afghanistan's arbakai: A Pashtun tribal institution in which communities organize collective enforcement of local decisions. Arbakai exemplifies locally organized enforcement operating beside formal state structures.
State monopoly on violence: The claim that the modern state successfully asserts the exclusive legitimate use of physical force within its territory. Hybrid security challenges the assumption that legitimate force is provided only by the state.
Legitimacy: The recognized right of an institution or authority to make and enforce decisions. Different providers may gain public acceptance from different sources of authority.
Security sector reform: A process for transforming security institutions to make them effective, accountable, and subject to civilian control. Reform efforts often encounter security providers that operate alongside or outside state institutions.
Community-based protection: Measures communities organize to reduce threats and protect people in their locality. It shows how civilians may provide protection alongside or in place of state services.
Somali customary law: An unwritten body of Somali customary rules governing relations among clans and communities. Xeer-based dispute settlement can function alongside state courts and security institutions.
Privatization of security: The transfer of security functions from public authorities to private firms or contractors. Privatization is narrower than hybrid security, which also includes community and customary actors.
Rule of law: A principle that public power is exercised under clear, public, and consistently applied laws. Multiple providers can strengthen local order or weaken consistent legal protections.