NGO Perspective Syed Sharfuddin CEO, Muslim Aid UK

Definitions DISASTER: Caused by invincible forces of nature but their impact can be reduced by advance planning and mitigation; CATASTROPHE: A disaster gone bad due to interference with nature or conflicts not resolved at the right time in the right way; COMPLEX CONFLICTS: Competing forces producing a chain reaction that is costly to contain and requires a long time to stabilise.

Threats Weak states, including states in transition to democracy; Scientific and technological hazards; New vulnerabilities; Poverty and associated indicators; Protection of development finance.

Conflict Impact Conflicts have increased in numbers and intensity ; Become widely extra-territorial; Place additional strain on development partners and global financial institutions; Impact on aid and development fatigue.

Conflict Checklist Constitutional and legal framework; Organs of State; Regulatory institutions ; Policies and national strategy; Growth and development; Policy Framework for future planning.

Security Intervention – Plus Points Stabilises a violent theatre; Provides breathing space from bloodshed to address underlying issues that drive conflict; Provides opportunities for local stakeholders to start the process of dialogue, build trust and make compromises; Prevents a conflict situation from becoming a humanitarian catastrophe; Train and build capacity of local forces to consolidate peace and mitigate risks.

Conflict Action List Michael Lund’s 12 points: 1. act early 2. be swift and decisive 3. use talent 4. use a combination of responses 5. support moderate leaders 6. build local networks 7. use credible sticks 8. work through local institutions 9. involve regional organisations 10. involve major powers 11. promote effective communications strategy 12. use diplomacy with teeth.

Security Intervention: Minus Points Cost of external intervention; Delayed 911 response; Peace agreements imposed from outside do not last; Carrot and stick package; Focus on strong national security structures.

Security Intervention: Important Assumptions Must be tailor made; Must be seen by both locals and outsiders to be necessary, legitimate, impartial and competent; Must be accompanied with a transparent agenda of development, human rights and humanitarian assistance; Must involve the private sector and civil society beyond government and military mechanisms; Must have a long term view.

Role of Private Sector, Research and NGOs Risk assessment, mitigation and mediation; Value for money; Wider range of expertise and efficiencies; Scientific and Research based knowledge; Comparative advantage of NGOs.

Obstacles Attitude of States; National development plans; Weak States; Managing Partners.