Phases of Peacebuilding.

 

Most peacebuilding happens once conflict – i.e. major, large-scale violence – has ended. But some peacebuilding tasks can start even during conflict. For example, in pockets of peace, civil society organizations, local government or traditional actors may be promoting conflict resolution mechanisms, or seeking to provide basic services or develop livelihood opportunities. The United Nations can support them. It is important to start assessing capacity as soon as the end of conflict is in sight (particularly national capacity, but also other potentially useful capacity in the country or the region, such as resident staff or NGOs). This preparatory groundwork enables the United Nations to respond more quickly and effectively once a negotiated settlement has been reached and/or elements of peace are established, as well as to capitalize on any opportunities to build peace from the bottom up where pockets of stability exist. At that point, the volume of peacebuilding action is expected to ramp up significantly. In this early period, people are ready for change, have high expectations and can easily revert to conflict if they do not feel tangible benefits from peace. However, this is where the international community has been weakest (hence the emphasis in the Secretary-General’s report on the crucial window of the first 24 months after conflict). Seizing this early window of opportunity is vital. Butpeacebuilding is a lengthy process, which goes far beyond this initial two year period. A country’s peacebuilding priorities and needs will change over time. The UN may be expected to play a more prominent role in the early days, while national capacity is being developed and national actors may need considerable external support, and when a transitional government’s legitimacy may be weak prior to the first post-conflict elections