This case study seeks to assess the contribution of Ghana’s emergent parliamentary oversight of the security sector in preventing insecurity and promoting stability. The study first explores why parliamentary oversight has not contributed to increased democratization and development as much as might be expected, focusing predominantly on defense and police. To appreciate the different developments that have contributed to the evolution of Ghana’s security sector, a historical context is provided. Next, the case examines what might be done in the future to strengthen the role of parliament within a democratic structure. Finally, it considers the potential role of West Africa’s regional security architecture, particularly the ECOWAS Community Parliament, to security sector reform in Ghana and the region as a whole.

http://www.cic.nyu.edu/peacebuilding/docs/CIC%20Ghana%20SSR%20FINAL.pdf