Local Conflict Sensitivity Analysis in Libya
Situation
Projects implemented in conflict-ridden and highly volatile areas have a high likelihood of both influencing and being shaped by conflict dynamics. Thus, conflict-sensitivity analyses have grown essential to minimize unintended negative effects (Do-No-Harm) and maximize positive impacts of interventions carried out by external actors.
Local conflict-sensitive approaches are of paramount importance in war-torn Libya, where the situation is continuously unfolding. With this in mind, the Dutch organization VNG International commissioned Voluntas to map existing local drivers of conflict and review potential ways in which assistance activities could interact in a context-specific way allowing for engagements to be tailored at local level. The analysis was carried out as part of the EU-funded Improved Service Delivery and Accountable at Local Level (ISAL) program in Libya.
Voluntas Impact
To ensure the sustainability of the mapping and assessment, Voluntas developed a conflict sensitivity tracker to be used for continuous scrutiny and adaptation of VNGI program staff. Furthermore, while the tools, analytical framework, and output reporting was developed by Voluntas, actual data collection was carried out by VNGI staff on the ground.
The analysis materialized in a set of municipality profiles, which provide an understanding of on-the-ground dynamics. Furthermore, Voluntas developed a risk matrix allowing partners to capitalize on the risks, dilemmas, and opportunities identified.
Related Insights
Voluntās expands into Sudan
Voluntas is expanding geographically. Earlier this year, we established a partnership with Sudan Polling and Statistics Center (SPSC). Dana Fuentes, a senior associate with Voluntas who until recently was based in Tunis, relocated to Sudan last month to support our expanding presence in the country. Dana will be supported by Nada Elamin. We will be opening an office in Khartoum in the coming months.
Involvement in The Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme
In collaboration with Baltic Sea Cluster Development Centre, Voluntās Policy Advisory (Voluntās) is currently involved in the “COVID19-Communities Response and Resilience” project targeting themes “Citizen engagement/community response” as well as “The Economic of Health Service Delivery”.
Supporting UNICEF on the COVID-19 pandemic in Libya
To support effective COVID-19 crisis communication and community outreach by the Libyan Ministry of Health and the National Centre for Disease Control, Voluntās Policy Advisory supported UNICEF in the development and implementation of a nationwide survey-based behavioral assessment in Libya.
