Communities emerging from armed conflict face major economic and reconstruction challenges. Extensive internal fighting undermines development progress, resulting not only in casualties, loss of livelihoods, and impaired infrastructure and social services, but also in displaced populations, collapsed state institutions, and widespread mistrust. However, the break in social and political dynamics also creates the opportunity to initiate more inclusive, cohesive community processes. Community driven development (CDD) [link] approaches where communities have control over resources and decision making are based on the principles of social inclusion, participation, accountability, and partnership. Applied to conflict-affected communities, the CDDapproach has the potential both to address urgent community needs and to serve as a catalyst for building healthier social and political dynamics. The benefits of using a CDD approach are in its process as well as in delivering its product and include: Speedy and cost-effective reconstruction assistance for highest priority needs. Creation of inclusive forms of community organization that foster relationship-building and reconciliation. Development of community capacity and action plans as foundation for sustainable linkages with existing or emerging government institutions and the private sector
Initial stages of conflict recovery, defined by a community driven approach, may serve as a stabilizing influence during the process of peace consolidation, emergency reconstruction, and disarmament and demobilization, thus positively affecting the conflict. As the transition from war to development continues, a CDD approach can support institution building, political reformation, livelihoods, and decentralization and continue to strengthen participation as a foundation for a stable, democratic society. Ensuring certain minimum conditions are met may help determine the timing and improve the prospects for success in initiating a CDD program.
Related Resources: Community-Driven Development in the Context of Conflict-Affected Countries: Challenges and Opportunities, June 20, 2006 Demand Driven Approaches to Livelihood Support in Post-War Contexts, A joint ILO-World Bank Study, October 2005Â Community-driven Reconstruction as an Instrument in War-to-Peace Transitions, August 2003 Social Capital and Survival: Prospects for Community-Driven Development in Post-Conflict Sierra Leone, April 2004 Do Participatory Development Projects Help Villagers Manage Local Conflicts? (Revised version), March 2004 Social Funds Innovation Update: A Tale of Two Projects: Community-based Reconstruction in East Timor and Rwanda (2002) World Bank Conflict Prevention and Reconstruction Wesbsite Community Driven Development in Contexts of Conflict: Concept Paper Commissioned by ESSD, World Bank (Arne Strand, Hege Toje, Alf Morten Jerve, Ingrid Samset, 2003, CMI) For more resources , click here. >> Â |
RSS