Yemen: Activating the judiciary and launching a campaign to ban weapons in order to enhance security
In a strategic move aimed at restoring the state's authority and consolidating security and stability, Yemeni authorities announced a package of decisive measures, including the full reactivation of the judiciary, coinciding with the launch of a strict security campaign to prevent the carrying of weapons in major cities. These steps are part of the internationally recognized government's efforts to normalize the situation in liberated provinces and improve the quality of life for citizens.
The context of the conflict and its impact on state institutions
To understand the significance of this step, one must consider the historical and political context Yemen has experienced over the past decade. Since the outbreak of conflict in 2014, state institutions have suffered near-total collapse, with the judiciary being among the hardest hit sectors. The cessation of court and prosecution services in many areas has led to a lack of justice, a backlog of cases, and citizens resorting to customary or tribal solutions, and sometimes violence, to obtain their rights, further exacerbating the state of societal chaos.
Furthermore, the war has contributed to an unprecedented proliferation of weapons among civilians. Although Yemeni society has a traditional culture associated with gun ownership, years of conflict have transformed this phenomenon into a serious security dilemma, with armed displays in markets and public places becoming a major cause of rising crime rates, assassinations, and random clashes that have claimed the lives of hundreds of innocent people.
The importance of activating the judiciary and the security campaign
The decision to reactivate the judiciary is of paramount importance on several levels. Locally, it means the courts will resume adjudicating civil, commercial, and criminal disputes, restoring citizens' sense of legal security and safeguarding their rights and property. An effective and independent judiciary is the cornerstone of any societal stability and a prerequisite for attracting capital and reviving economic activity, as investors are hesitant to operate in an environment lacking legal protection for their investments.
As for the campaign to ban weapons, it represents a significant but necessary challenge for enforcing the rule of law. The campaign aims to restrict weapons to the state and its security and military apparatus, and to end the armed displays that mar the civilian character of Yemeni cities, particularly the interim capital, Aden, and the surrounding governorates. This campaign is expected to contribute to reducing crime rates and facilitating the safe movement of citizens.
Expected impacts and regional and international dimensions
At the regional and international levels, these measures send positive messages to the international community, UN agencies, and donor countries, indicating that the Yemeni government is serious about fulfilling its responsibilities and effectively managing the areas under its control. This improvement in security and judicial performance could pave the way for increased international support for Yemen in reconstruction and development, and enhance the prospects for success of UN-led peace efforts, as building strong state institutions is an integral part of any comprehensive future political settlement.
