ENCISS recognises that addressing issues around security and justice is essential to creating a stable environment in which governance and accountability can be strengthened.

Whilst there have been attempts to improve key justice policies and practice, such as community-based legal aides or bills in support of the informal justice system, the delivery of justice in post-conflict Sierra Leone remains a challenge. This is due in part to the insufficient availability of lawyers, magistrates and judges, many of whom are poorly paid. Faith in chiefs and local courts has diminished while traditional practices are being questioned. The result is a feeling of low protection, insecurity and community conflicts.

Respect for human rights

The ENCISS programme will promote approaches that include conflict mapping, prevention and management. This could include the development of early warning mechanisms, aimed at alerting people to potential social or political instability that may threaten peace and security.

ENCISS encourages work to ensure that the rules governing justice at chiefdom level are followed and not skewed against the marginalised poor, and advocacy for the availability of Legal Aid to the poor. The type of projects may include work with ward, chiefdom and local council security committees.