The aim of this report is to provoke critical reflection and considered discussion on the effectiveness of existing international assistance to police and other internal security actors in fragile and conflict-affected countries. Recognizing that such assistance programs vary greatly across the broad spectrum of international interests and policy agendas, the report focuses on core developmental policing challenges as a common point of departure. At the onset, it is critical to acknowledge that regional generalizations are neither universally applicable in all contexts nor a substitute for localized analyses. Policing in Africa, as in any regional context, is marked by diversity. References to the broader region and subregions are thus carefully qualified as necessary.