Sierra Leone is often cited as a highly influential example of security sector reform (SSR) in practice. In the ten years (1997 - 2007) covered in this volume, Sierra Leone transitioned from open conflict to a process of consolidation and development that culminated in the successful general elections of 2007. SSR is understood as being at the heart of this change. Security Sector Reform in Sierra Leone 1997 - 2007: Views from the Frontline seeks to shed new light on this process by giving a voice to stakeholders that were intimately involved in SSR efforts within Sierra Leone. Contributions from both UK and Sierra Leonean personnel provide authentic perspectives that enable us to draw important lessons from a dynamic and evolving relationship between national actors and the wider international community.