Strengthening Military Professionalism in Africa

Military professionalism is a standard of conduct upheld by members of the armed forces committed to the values of service to the public, subordination to democratic civilian authority, allegiance to the constitution, political neutrality, and respect for the rule of law and human rights. Professional soldiers exhibit values of integrity, honor, duty, expertise, sacrifice, and respect for citizens and the institutions of the military. Military professionals are called to a higher ethical standard given the enormous trust and responsibility bestowed on them by citizens to use lethal force in defense of the country and population.