Conflict Sensitivity Hub for DRC - Centre d'Expertise en Sensibilite aux Conflits

The need for a more systematic and sound application of Conflict Sensitivity best practices in aid interventions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been recognised since many years and has become even more apparent with the recent developments due the COVID-19 pandemic that is exacerbating longstanding conflict dynamics and creating new ones. Based on Alert’s experience in developing and applying conflict sensitivity best practices to strategies and interventions in conflict affected contexts, we propose a 12-month project that will help shape the conversation and support learning for donors and implementing organisations on approaches to CS in DRC. Findings and lessons learned from this project can help inform the design of FCDO new programme for DRC as well as provide conflict sensitivity support to FCDO ongoing and future programmes, as discussed with FCDO Peace and Security Advisor in DRC. Peacebuilding organizations operating in DRC and some of their donors and stakeholders have recognized the need for peacebuilding efforts to be better coordinated and represented to increase their effectiveness both on the ground as well as on the strategic and advocacy level, in a working environment where coordination mechanisms are mainly focused on humanitarian and development needs and interventions. PB organizations and the NGO Forum have discussed about the opportunity to have a Peacebuilding coordinator representing them within the forum. The role of the Coordinator would be to coordinate PB organizations with regards to information sharing, conflict and context analysis, key advocacy messages and strategy.