Research
More information
For more information, please contact Mariska van Beijnum
or Louise Anten
PCRP: Post-Conflict Research Programme
A central component of the research programme of the Conflict Research Unit (CRU) is the 4-year programme for the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called the Post-Conflict Research Programme (PCRP). This programme focuses on three main themes in relation to post-conflict reconstruction: security and stability; governance and democratisation; and socio-economic development. In relation to these themes and post-conflict reconstruction, the programme also focuses on fragile states. The application of the Stability Assessment Framework (SAF) is part of this fragile states focus. Conflict prevention and conflict management are also part of the agenda.
One of the key objectives of the PCRP is to focus on research that is closely related to, and of relevance for, Dutch and international policy development in relation to post-conflict reconstruction and stabilisation. A second, related objective concerns the relevance of the research for the promotion of joined up working. The Dutch policy note on post-conflict reconstruction (2005) highlights the need for the Ministries of Foreign Affairs (including Development Cooperation), Defence and Economic Affairs, to join forces. In practice, this implies that PCRP research focuses, where possible, on involving these departments in the research and the sharing of findings. Since Dutch policies are not developed in a vacuum, PCRP research tries to link up with international developments and policy debates as much as possible.
Activities under the PCRP include stability assessments of specific countries/regions; governance assessments; SSR related assessments; and assessing and analysing the interventions of international actors in conflict and post-conflict situations and fragile states. The CRU has developed (analytical) instruments for conducting such assessments and supporting policymakers in developing new policy concepts and in promoting joined up working infragile and post-conflict states.