The Rising Tide of Local Peacebuilding: How Declining International Aid is Empowering Communities
For decades, international organizations and governments have spearheaded peacebuilding efforts worldwide. However, a significant shift is underway. A pullback in funding from major donors, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, is creating space for indigenous civil society organizations (CSOs) to grab center stage. This isn’t simply a matter of necessity; it’s a recognition that lasting peace is often best built from the ground up.
From Track II to the Negotiating Table
Traditionally, indigenous CSOs have operated in the shadows of official peace processes, engaging in “Track II” diplomacy – unofficial dialogue, workshops, and peace education programs. While valuable, this work often lacked direct influence on high-level negotiations. Scholars have debated the merits of including CSOs in official talks, with some arguing for greater public representation and ownership of peace agreements. However, these efforts have often been excluded, as seen in past negotiations in Northern Ireland and Bosnia.
The situation is changing. As international support dwindles, CSOs are increasingly asserting their agency, shaping peacebuilding priorities and even influencing the agendas of international missions. This is particularly evident in contexts like Cyprus, where a decline in USAID and UK aid has prompted local organizations to take greater responsibility for the island’s future.
The Cypriot Case Study: A Microcosm of a Global Trend
Cyprus, divided since 1974, provides a compelling example of this trend. Official peace talks have repeatedly failed, and international attention has waned. In response, Cypriot CSOs have stepped up, focusing on building relationships across the divide through dialogue forums, educational programs, and community hubs like the Home for Cooperation (HFC).
The HFC, located in Nicosia’s buffer zone, exemplifies this shift. It provides a neutral space for Greek and Turkish Cypriots to interact and build trust. Organizations like the Association of Historical Dialogue and Research (AHDR) and Hands Across the Divide (HAD) are similarly actively influencing the peace process. AHDR’s Director now sits on the Technical Committee on Education, advocating for peace education to be a key component of any future agreement. HAD has successfully campaigned for greater female involvement in peace negotiations, leading to the creation of a Gender Affairs Officer position within the UN peacekeeping mission (UNFICYP).
The Impact of Funding Cuts: Beyond the Immediate Challenges
The reduction in international aid is undeniably creating challenges for peacebuilding CSOs globally. Organizations in Ukraine, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo are struggling to maintain services. Women-led initiatives in Syria and Afghanistan have been severely undermined. However, this crisis also presents an opportunity.
Cypriot CSOs demonstrate that decreased dependency on external funding can lead to greater autonomy and a more focused agenda. Donors often dictate how funds are used, potentially restricting the effectiveness of local initiatives. By taking ownership of the peacebuilding process, CSOs can tailor their efforts to the specific needs and context of the conflict.
Asserting Agency: Shaping the Peace Agenda
The key to this shift lies in CSOs’ ability to shape the peace agenda. This involves advocating for the inclusion of marginalized groups, prioritizing specific issues, and building strong relationships with international actors like UNFICYP. By leveraging their deep understanding of the local context and their connections within the community, CSOs can effectively influence the direction of peacebuilding efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Track II diplomacy?
A: Track II diplomacy refers to unofficial, informal interactions between members of conflicting groups aimed at fostering understanding and developing peacebuilding strategies.
Q: Why are international donors reducing their aid?
A: Donors are shifting their priorities to other global crises, such as the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and facing budgetary constraints.
Q: What is the role of UNFICYP in Cyprus?
A: UNFICYP is the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, responsible for maintaining peace and security on the island and supporting peace negotiations.
Q: How can CSOs influence peace negotiations?
A: CSOs can influence negotiations by advocating for specific issues, building relationships with key stakeholders, and providing valuable insights into the local context.
The future of peacebuilding is increasingly local. While international support remains important, the growing empowerment of indigenous CSOs represents a fundamental shift in the field. By recognizing and supporting these local actors, the international community can foster more sustainable and effective peacebuilding efforts worldwide.
