This paper explores the difference between peacebuilding and conflict sensitivity and if a distinction matters in practice. It examines the damage done by the conceptual confusion and proposes distinct definitions and parameters for programme implementation that may lead to more effective peacebuilding and conflict sensitive practice. The article relies upon literature and practical experience from the Do No Harm project of which the authors are a part.
Key Findings:
Confusing the terms ‘conflict sensitivity’ and ‘peacebuilding’ has negative consequences on the effectiveness of both; therefore, it is important to aim for conceptual clarity. The following definitions and distinctions are proposed:
- Conflict sensitivity refers to the ability of an organisation to: understand the context in which it is operating, particularly intergroup relations; understand the interactions between its interventions and the context/group relations; and act upon the understanding of these interactions, in order to avoid negative impacts and maximise positive impacts.
- Peacebuilding refers to measures designed to consolidate peaceful relations and strengthen viable political, socio-economic and cultural institutions capable of handling conflict, and to strengthen other mechanisms that will either create or support the necessary conditions for sustained peace.
There are two significant implications of these distinctions:
- First, conflict sensitivity is a fundamental principle of good and responsible practice that is applicable to ALL programmes in ALL contexts, regardless of sector, programme type, conflict phase or constituency. That is, they must take account of the potential for violent conflict and adopt measures to minimise the negative and maximise the positive effects of programme efforts.
- Second, it clarifies peacebuilding as a type of programming with particular aims. It includes a wide range of programming modes with a common aim to explicitly address the key drivers of conflict and change the conflict dynamics, with particular emphasis on reducing or preventing violence as a means of addressing political, social and economic problems and injustices.
