Progress in Peacebuilding: Achievements in Conflict Management
The Work of the U.S. Institute of Peace
In its 20-year history, USIP has developed an extraordinary record of effecting positive change in conflict zones around the world. We have also significantly influenced policy dialogues on matters of war and peace in the United States and abroad. Through analysis, innovation, collaboration, and expertise, USIP has successfully created an array of tools for promoting the rule of law in societies emerging from conflict, developed analytical models designed to fight extremism and terrorism, facilitated interethnic and interfaith reconciliation, and more. "Progress in Peacebuilding: The Work of the U.S. Institute of Peace" takes a broad look at some of USIP's most successful programs. You can download a copy here. A small sampling of USIP success stories follows:
Iraq
USIP's role in Iraq began in 2004 and has focused on preventing sectarian violence, developing moderate leaders, promoting the rule of law, and strengthening civil society.
On the ground in Baghdad, a USIP-trained and funded facilitator and his organization intervened to reduce the escalating sectarian tensions among residents, who include Arab Shi’a, Arab Sunnis, Kurds, Christians, and Turkmen. Using techniques developed by USIP in other conflict zones, the facilitator and his team brought together key groups, including commanders of the Mahdi Army, Sheikhs from Shi’a and Sunni tribes, imams from local mosques, tribal chieftains, militia leaders, and a host of government officials to negotiate peace.
After lengthy debate and concerted mediation, the parties agreed on a host of initiatives to reduce the threat of confessional or sectarian attacks. Almost immediately, these efforts resulted in a notable decrease in sectarian violence in the area. Surveys conducted by security officials in the neighborhood in the two months preceding the intervention found that there were 67 kidnappings and 43 armed assaults of inhabitants leading to the death of the victims.
Forty-five days later, security officials reported that there had been only four cases of kidnapping, two of which had failed. No armed attacks had been reported during this period, and 27 terrorists had been captured.
USIP has also used its convening power to bring together experts and policymakers from across the political spectrum to discuss U.S. policy in the region. USIP's reputation for objective analysis and open debate explains why Abdel Aziz Alhakim, head of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution, recently chose USIP as his first public venue after meeting with President Bush.
More on USIP's work in Iraq
Kosovo
Seeking to head off the violence that engulfed other Balkan states after the collapse of Yugoslavia, USIP’s efforts in Kosovo focused on promoting nonviolent regime change, facilitating inter-ethnic cooperation, and strengthening civil society. With the assistance of a U.S. Army colonel, a group of USIP trainees founded the Council of Professionals, a local NGO that builds relationships between Serbs and Albanians with professional backgrounds. The group played a key role in maintaining peace in the area and facilitating the return of displaced peoples. The colonel credited USIP’s work with helping save the lives of U.S. troops—who would have had to intervene militarily if the region had not been pacified.
More on USIP's work in the Balkans
USIP's congressional mandate cuts across all phases of conflict. Our goals, organizational structure, and projects reflect this comprehensive approach to conflict management.
Source: Modified from material in
Preventing Violent Conflicts: A Strategy for Preventive Diplomacy, by Michael S. Lund, USIP Press 1996
Nigeria
Conflicts between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria have caused thousands of deaths in recent years. In collaboration with its local partner, the Interfaith Mediation Centre, USIP helped mediate a conflict in Yelwa, one of the most troubled areas of Nigeria. After difficult discussions and negotiations, community leaders drafted and signed a peace declaration, reaching common ground that transcended class and religion—and beginning a journey to reconciliation that few had imagined possible.
More on USIP's work with the Interfaith Mediation Centre in Nigeria
Korea
After half a century of relative peace and stability, there are signs that the situation on the Korean peninsula could deteriorate precipitously. USIP made a significant contribution to this emerging challenge with its development of a proposal for a comprehensive settlement of the Korean War. The proposal helped guide the U.S. policy response to North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, and influenced the UN and Six-Party Talks on the region.
Read an analysis of the Six Party Talks' joint statement
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