By The Patriot, The Independentistnews contributor
Purpose: To help traditional authorities protect communities, preserve social cohesion, and prevent civilians from becoming victims of conflict, manipulation, or criminal activity.
- Avoiding the “Community Conflict” Trap
The Risk: Political conflicts are sometimes reframed as local or communal disputes, placing pressure on traditional leaders to take sides or assume security responsibilities.
Community Response: Traditional rulers are custodians of culture, peace, and social order — not military commanders. Communities benefit when chiefs and Fons maintain neutrality and prioritize civilian safety above political or military alignment.
- Guarding Against Criminal Infiltration
The Risk: Criminal groups sometimes impersonate security actors or armed movements to carry out kidnappings and extortion.
Community Response: Communities should verify incidents carefully before assigning blame. Traditional authorities can encourage communication with trusted civil society or humanitarian actors and discourage retaliation that could escalate violence.
- Protecting Youth and Travelers
The Risk: In conflict zones, civilians — especially young people — may face harassment, arrest, or exploitation at checkpoints and transit points.
Community Response: Leaders should educate youth on safer travel practices, document alleged abuses where possible, and support families seeking lawful and peaceful remedies through recognized civil or humanitarian channels.
- Avoiding Civilian Militarization
The Risk: Civilians may be encouraged or pressured to form local armed groups, which often increases community vulnerability.
Community Response: Arming civilians frequently leads to cycles of retaliation and makes villages targets. Traditional authorities should instead advocate for dialogue, mediation, and civilian protection mechanisms.
- Addressing Extortion and Abuse
The Risk: Civilians sometimes face extortion or abuse by criminal actors or corrupt individuals exploiting instability.
Community Response: Communities can safely document incidents, work with trusted mediators, and seek assistance from humanitarian or legal organizations to reduce vulnerability.
FIVE PILLARS OF COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
Unity — Avoid internal divisions that weaken community safety.
Verification — Confirm information before reacting to rumors or accusations.
Documentation — Keep records of incidents affecting civilians.
Communication — Share safety information responsibly and avoid spreading panic.
Protection of Civilians — Prioritize safety of women, children, elders, and noncombatants.
The Patriot
Leave feedback about this