Analyzing Government Economic Policy's Effect on Security Sector Reforms and Economic Stability in South Sudan

Abstract

Although the importance of Security Sector Reform (SSR) in stabilizing post-conflict societies is widely recognized, current literature highlights a significant gap in comprehending the interactions among financial accessibility, SSR, and economic development in South Sudan. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of government economic policy on security sector reforms and economic stability in South Sudan. The study was anchored on the following theoretical framework: Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Peacebuilding, Conflict Theory, Human Security and Copenhagen School of Security Studies. The study adopted a pragmatic research paradigm and employed a mixed-methods research approach, integrating both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis techniques. The target population consisted of 27,570 respondents drawn from ex-combatants who participated in reintegration programs, security sector personnel involved in SSR initiatives, and key stakeholders. The sample size of 395 was determined using Yamane's formula which was rounded up to 450 to account for non-responsive, distributed as 250 ex-combatants, 150 security sector personnel, and 50 key stakeholders. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire, interview guide, focus group discussion and document analysis guide.  Data collected from the respondents was coded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 26. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between government economic policy and social service sector reforms, with economic policies explaining 57.2% of the variability in SSR outcomes (R² = 0.572). ANOVA results indicate a highly significant model (F-value of 530.234, p < 0.001), and the regression analysis shows a government economic policy coefficient of 0.712 and beta (β) of 0.756, both statistically significant (p < 0.001). These results highlight the crucial role of effective economic policies in enhancing SSR performance, supporting the assertion that sound economic policies are essential for successful security reforms in resource-limited contexts. The study concludes that a significant positive relationship exists between government economic policy and security sector reform (SSR), with economic policies explaining 57.2% of the variance in SSR outcomes, indicating their crucial role in enhancing the effectiveness of security reforms. Recommendations emphasize the need for policymakers to align economic strategies with SSR objectives, tailor policies to specific socio-economic contexts, strengthen public financial management for improved accountability, and foster inter-agency collaboration. Additionally, theoretical models should reflect the economic-security nexus, while practice should incorporate monitoring and stakeholder engagement. The Ministry should establish a dedicated task force for better alignment, enhance data capabilities for evidence-based decisions, and promote public understanding of the economic-security link, alongside collaboration with international partners to share best practices