LUGARIT’s insights at EGM: Peacebuilding in a Changing Risk Landscape

30 May 2023  -  UN House, Beirut, Lebanon

We participate in the Expert Group Meeting (EGM) titled "Peacebuilding in a Changing Risk Landscape," held on May 30, 2023 and  organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA).  The meeting focused on advancing the debate on conflict prevention in the Arab world, particularly in the context of the 5th anniversary of the United Nations-World Bank publication “Pathways for Peace: Inclusive Approaches to Preventing Violent Conflict.”

The meeting's objective was to explore the deeply interconnected nature of risks in the Arab region, such as conflicts, climate change, and development, and how these exacerbate vulnerabilities and erode resilience. It aimed to identify and discuss emerging trends and innovative solutions to prevention, considering the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of the region.

A highlight of the meeting was the second panel discussion titled "A Changing Risk Landscape in Fragile Settings," in which Omar Abdulaziz Hallaj – Partner in LUGARIT - participated. This session delved into the complex interplay between different risks in the Arab world. It examined challenges in identifying and assessing these risks, with a focus on conflicts, climate change, and development issues, including governance. The session provided a platform for experts to share insights on effective risk assessment and measurement techniques, stimulating discussion on innovative approaches to assessing risks in the Arab region. The aim was to improve the quality of national risk management in the region, thereby strengthening the ability to cope with existing crises and anticipate and respond to future crises.

The meeting's significance lies in its collaborative effort to develop recommendations for stakeholders in the Arab world to develop risk-informed prevention strategies and promote sustainable peace and development. It reflected on the continued relevance of the "Pathways for Peace" report, arguing for a pivot to prevention by addressing inequalities and exclusion, making institutions more inclusive, and ensuring that development strategies are risk-informed. This approach is central to preventing the fraying of the social fabric that could erupt into crisis.

Overall, the Expert Group Meeting represented a step forward in understanding and addressing the multifaceted risks and challenges facing the Arab region in its pursuit of sustainable peace and development.

Header Photo

Cairo, Egypt - 2013: A woman waving the Egyptian flag against Tahriri Square. After the coup of General Sisi, supporters of President Morsi resist in Adeviye Square.  Photo © mehmet ali poyraz - via ShutterStock.  Link >

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