Infrastructure projects are generally approached from an engineering perspective. While engineering concerns such as efficiency are important, they should be secondary considerations in a conflict sensitive approach (USIP, 2008). Development actors should be aware of potentially divisive actions such as the risk of elite capture of infrastructure projects (e.g. selecting road alignments or water supply points that benefit certain groups), inequitable resource distribution and substitution effects.
Jones and Howarth (2012) advocate for community-driven development (CDD) and reliance on strong traditional arrangements to mitigate against such risks. They emphasise, however, that proper attention should be given to the design and implementation of CDD programmes. In Sierra Leone, for example, the formation of local committees was insufficient to ensure a conflict sensitive approach. It had to be supplemented with procedures and mechanisms for community monitoring and accountability. CDD may not be an effective solution in all contexts, however, and may not be appropriate to handle large infrastructure projects.
Key texts
Jones, S. & Howarth, S. (2012). Supporting infrastructure development in fragile and conflict-affected states: Learning from experience. Oxford: Oxford Policy Management
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USIP. (2008). Conflict-sensitive approach to infrastructure development. Washington, DC: United States Institute of Peace (USIP).
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Additional resources
International Alert. (2006). Conflict-sensitive business practice: engineering contractors and their clients. London: International Alert
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