The Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict: A Framework for a Safer World

As the world marks the fifth anniversary of the publication of the UN-World Bank report 'Pathways for Peace: Inclusive Approaches to Preventing Violent Conflict', it is imperative to reflect on the progress made in the prevention of armed conflict. The report, which was launched in 2018, highlighted the importance of inclusive approaches in preventing violent conflicts and promoting sustainable peace.

Since its publication, there has been a surge in violent conflicts around the world, leaving a trail of human suffering, displacement, and protracted humanitarian need. In response to this trend, the UN and the World Bank have launched a joint initiative, gathering reflections from multilaterals, Member States, think tanks, civil society, and regional partners on the legacy and continued relevance of the report's findings in an evolving global landscape.

The initiative aims to identify key insights and recommendations that can inform prevention and peacebuilding efforts. The three main questions that will be examined through a series of papers and digital workshops are: To what degree have the UN, World Bank, and other global and regional actors built upon some of the key insights and recommendations of this report? How has this played out in different regions? And, despite recent fundamental shifts in the global landscape, does the research summarized in the 2018 Pathways for Peace report remain relevant as a guide for prevention and peacebuilding efforts today?

The answers to these questions will be crucial in shaping the future of conflict prevention and peacebuilding. The UN, World Bank, and other global and regional actors must work together to build upon the key insights and recommendations outlined in the report. This requires a deep understanding of the evolving global landscape and the role that inclusive approaches can play in preventing violent conflicts.

One of the key findings of the report was that prevention is critical to addressing the root causes of conflict. The report highlighted the importance of addressing poverty, inequality, and social exclusion, as well as promoting good governance, human rights, and sustainable development. These factors are essential for building sustainable peace and preventing the recurrence of violent conflicts.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to address these underlying drivers of conflict. The UN Secretary-General's New Agenda for Peace, for example, emphasizes the importance of addressing poverty, inequality, and social exclusion in preventing conflict. Similarly, the World Bank's five-year FCV Strategy places a strong emphasis on promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty.

The mid-term review of the World Bank's FCV Strategy will be an important opportunity to assess progress made in implementing these strategies. The review will also provide a platform for discussing the challenges faced by countries in implementing these strategies and identifying areas where further support is needed.

The SDG16 Conference, which was held in 2020, provided another important platform for discussing the role of inclusive approaches in preventing conflict. The conference highlighted the importance of promoting good governance, human rights, and sustainable development in preventing violent conflicts.

In conclusion, the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict is a critical framework for building a safer world. The initiative aims to promote inclusive approaches to preventing violent conflicts and promoting sustainable peace. As we mark the fifth anniversary of the publication of the Pathways for Peace report, it is essential that we continue to build upon the key insights and recommendations outlined in the report.

By working together, the UN, World Bank, and other global and regional actors can help to prevent violent conflicts and promote sustainable peace. The answers to the three questions posed by this initiative will be crucial in shaping the future of conflict prevention and peacebuilding. As we look to the future, it is essential that we continue to prioritize inclusive approaches to preventing violent conflicts and promoting sustainable peace.

Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict.