The Sierra Leone Civil War, which began in 1991 and lasted more than a decade, was characterized by its extreme violence and severe human rights violations, including widespread instances of abduction, mutilation, and the recruitment of child soldiers. The conflict arose primarily due to widespread poverty and a desire for political change amidst corrupt governance. The Revolutionary United Front (RUF), led by Foday Sankoh, along with various other factions, challenged the government through guerrilla warfare and brutal tactics that destabilized the country. The situation drew international attention and led to a United Nations intervention, which aimed to restore peace and security. A key turning point came with the Lomé Peace Agreement signed in July 1999, which was intended to end hostilities but failed to hold, leading to a resurgence in violence. By early 2002, after significant international and regional support, including the deployment of British troops and UN peacekeepers, the competing factions came to a consensus to officially declare the war over. The conclusion of the conflict opened pathways for reconstruction efforts and humanitarian assistance, crucial for rebuilding the war-torn country.