What is one of the key obstacles to achieving desired outcomes in Protection of Civilians (PoC) according to military and other actors?

Corruption is recognized as a significant obstacle to achieving desired outcomes in the Protection of Civilians (PoC) initiatives. It undermines trust between local populations and authorities or organizations responsible for their protection. When corruption is prevalent, resources may be misallocated, leading to insufficient support for essential services, such as security or humanitarian aid. Moreover, it can result in the exploitation of vulnerable populations, making it even more challenging to protect civilians effectively.

High levels of corruption can also deter external support and investments intended for PoC efforts, as stakeholders may be hesitant to engage in environments where corruption is rampant. Trust is a fundamental element in successful PoC operations; without it, the cooperation and participation of the affected communities are compromised, limiting the effectiveness of the initiatives aimed at protecting civilians.

While budget limitations, lack of personnel, and inadequate training certainly present challenges in various contexts, corruption stands out as it is deeply intertwined with governance, accountability, and the overall efficacy of PoC strategies. This makes it a critical focus for military and other actors engaged in improving civilian protection outcomes.