The Role of NGOs In Conflict and Peace-Building

Non-government organisations (NGOs) have become increasingly involved in the international response to armed conflict, some aiming to mitigate the effects of war and others to help end the violence. But what impacts do they have, and how could they be improved? A project of INTRAC, UK and the International Peace Academy, USA, looks at the role of international and national NGOs in contemporary conflicts and peace operations. The researcher reviews the main theoretical and policy debates, and outlines implications for improving policy and practice based on case studies on programmes in seven conflict arenas: Afghanistan, Armenia-Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Liberia, Moldova, Nepal and Sri Lanka.In the past, the role of international relief agencies in conflict situations was limited to providing humanitarian aid and protection. But in recent years there has been a shift towards developmental and peacebuilding approaches. The impact of aid and the effect that NGOs have on conflict and peace dynamics, have also come under increasing scrutiny.