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Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding
A Nepali initiative seeking to bridge the gap between the Maoists and the state, and to assist the move away from human rights violations towards non-violent resolution.
Description
The initiative promotes awareness of non-violent means for conflict resolution such as dialogue, facilitation, and negotiation. It also seeks to bridge the communication gap between the conflicting parties (the Maoists and the State). The initiative has the additional aim of supporting conflict victims, especially women and children.
Aims / Objectives
- To build up the capacity for conflict transformation and peacebuilding;
- To promote a non-violent approach to the resolution of conflict and of local differences;
- To develop a culture of respect for human rights; and
- To minimize human rights violations.
How it is Articulated
The Human Rights Consciousness and Development Centre (HUCODEC) implemented the initiative "Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding" with the following activities:
- Training on conflict transformation and peacebuilding for human rights activists, and for those working for peace and development;
- Documenting human rights violations connected to the Maoist conflict in the Mechi zone;
- Researching the impact of the Maoist conflict on women and children; and
- Providing counselling services to the victims and advice to the conflicting parties on how to respect human and civil rights.
Achievements / Learning Points
Since the start of the initiative 275 people have received training in conflict transformation and peacebuilding. Participants in the initiative have carried out field research and analysis in the Panchthar district. In 2004 they published a paper on "Women and Children in Conflict".
HUCODEC has documented human rights violations by both conflicting parties. The results have been publicised to raise awareness of the conflict and to create pressure on the conflicting parties to minimize the impact of the conflict and maximize respect for human rights.
Victims of the conflict have received counselling through the initiative.
HUCODEC has developed and positioned itself as a facilitator between the Maoist and the government security forces in Panchthar district. Thanks to its facilitation role between the conflicting parties, human rights violations by both sides have decreased.
HUCODEC has taken on a bridging role in the communication gap between the Maoists and the government. It has communicated with both conflict parties as a communicator and facilitator on how to minimize the impact of the conflict on the civilians. HUCODEC continues to play a neutral and impartial role in the conflict.
The Conflict Transformation and Peacebuilding initiative has consolidated HUCODEC's reputation for strengthening and supporting the peace process in Nepal.
Geographical Area of Operation
Mechi Zone of Eastern Region (Panchthar, Taplejung and Ilam districts)
Funding Resources
- Infrastructure for Rural Income - United States Agency for International Development (INFRIN-USAID);
- United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF); and
- Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC).
Organisations Involved
- Human Rights Consciousness and Development Centre (HUCODEC);
- Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC); and
- Local CBOs.