Community for Peace Programme (CFP)

A programme to strengthen Nepali communities against engaging in conflict, with the aim of minimising the spread of fighting.

Description

Over the past eight years, the Maoist insurgency in Nepal has wreaked havoc on the nation’s economy, infrastructure and community life. The lack of economic opportunities and social exclusion have fueled the spread of the insurgency, as the rebels have found their greatest support amongst the most disenfranchised, such as women and lower castes, particularly in rural areas. To address these issues, Nagarik Aawaz has initiated ‘The Communities for Peace Programme’ with the financial and technical support of CEDPA Nepal.

The overall goal of the 'Communities for Peace Programme' is to minimise the spread of conflict by strengthening community resilience to conflict engagement. This programme has been implemented in seven districts, namely Kathmandu and Lalitpur by Nagarik Aawaz; Ilam, by Sungava Club; Dhanusha, by Support Nepal; Surkhet, by Women’s Association for Marginalised Women; Doti, by Community Development Forum; and Bajura, by GIFT Bajura.

Aims / Objectives

The programme aims to:

• strengthen the capacity of NGOs to mitigate the effects of conflict and help victims;
• enhance conflict resolution skills in target areas;
• increase opportunities for social inclusion and integration in the target areas;
• increase the capacity of young people aged 15 to 24 to engage productively in economic and social life in the target areas; and
• increase awareness of support services for victims ofconflict in target areas.

How it is Articulated

A 'Master Training of Trainers' programme on conflict transformation and peacebuilding; a follow up programme; training on 'conflict transformation and peacebuilding' by partner organisations in their respective areas.

Achievements / Learning Points

A 'Master Training of Trainers' (MTOT) course in psychological referral support, mediation and negotiation, peacebuilding and social mobilisation was conducted at Imadol Training Centre from 12-27 September 2005. 36 representatives of partner organisations participated. Due to the continuing impact of the MTOT, it is expected that the CFP programme will run smoothly and will help in fostering a peaceful environment in Nepal.

Similarly, a two-day planning meeting with leaders of partner NGOs was held from 27-28 September, 2005. In this meeting, all partners prepared their annual work plan to implement ‘The Communities for Peace Programme’.

Geographical Area of Operation

Kathamndu, Lalitpur, Ilam, Dhanusha, Surkhet, Doti and Bajura districts.

Funding Resources

CEDPA Nepal.

Associated Organisations

• Support Nepal-Janakpur
• Community Development Forum-Doti
• Gift Bajura-Bajura
• Sungava Club-Ilam
• Women’s Association for Marginalised-Surkhet
• Digo Bikash Ma Mahila –Okhaldhunga
• Nepal Mahila Samudayik Sewa Kendra-Dang.