The Defence and Security Program at the HORN Institute provides rigorous, independent analysis of defence and security policy challenges across the region. The program examines the roles of state security institutions, including national armies, police, intelligence services, and defence ministries, in managing conflict, maintaining order, and supporting post-conflict transitions. It analyses regional defence cooperation frameworks, the dynamics of military modernisation, and the growing role of private military contractors and external security actors in the region’s security architecture. The program engages governments, regional organisations, security sector practitioners, and international partners in evidence-based dialogue aimed at strengthening institutional effectiveness, promoting accountable security governance, and supporting coordinated responses to the region’s most pressing security challenges.

The program aims to generate rigorous research and analysis on defence strategy, security sector governance, civil-military relations, and emerging security threats across the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region. It provides authoritative policy guidance on defence and security reform, institutional capacity development, and strategic planning, while convening high-level dialogues that bring together defence officials, security practitioners, policymakers, and analysts to address the region’s most pressing security challenges. The program also examines the geopolitical dimensions of external security engagement and the implications of emerging threats such as cyber operations, drone warfare, and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons for regional security policy.