Background:
Since 1991, civil war between the government and the Revolutionary
United Front (RUF) has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and
the displacement of more than 2 million people (well over one-third
of the population), many of whom are now refugees in neighboring
countries. After several setbacks, the end to the 11-year conflict
in Sierra Leone may finally be near at hand. With the support of the
UN peacekeeping force and contributions from the World Bank and
international community, demobilization and disarmament of the RUF
and Civil Defense Forces (CDF) combatants has been completed.
National elections were held in May 2002 and the government
continues to slowly reestablish its authority.