Knowledge development for fragile settings (FCAS) 2016

In order to strengthen NIMD’s work in fragile and conflict-prone settings, applied research will be initiated by the Knowledge and Innovation Unit in consultation with programme staff and partners. Generally, the aim of such research will be to better understand the root causes of destabilisation in fragile settings, as well as cross-border issues and regional dynamics, and specifically, their impact on the functioning of the political system, its actors and the democratic culture. The outcomes of these research projects will be used to inform national and regional programme strategies, and to strengthen the NIMD programme interventions at various levels. Themes that could be considered include the scarcity of, and access to, natural resources; growing inequality; the rapidly growing youth cohort and its effects on socio-economic and political stability; cross-border conflicts; and dynamics related to illicit networks, drug trafficking and terrorism. Based on NIMD’s experience in working with political actors in fragile and conflict settings over the past ten years, six focus areas have been identified that particularly affect NIMD’s work in these settings. Under the Dialogue for Stability programme, NIMD aims to deepen its expertise, skills and tools on each of these six focus areas: i. Trust building between political rivals: ii. Supporting the conversion of former armed movements into political parties: iii. Fostering inclusive political settlements iv. Working in synchronicity with international conflict resolution and peacebuilding interventions v. Advancing women’s political participation vi. Understanding the impact of illicit networks on politics in fragile and conflict affected settings.