Unpacking a Network Approach: The Role of Networks, Movements and Coalitions in Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace

On Friday, 1 December 2023, representatives of Member States, the UN and civil society gathered as part of the CSO-UN Dialogue on Peacebuilding in an informal discussion entitled: “Unpacking a Network Approach: The Role of Networks, Movements and Coalitions in Peacebuilding and Sustaining Peace.” The discussion tackled two questions:

1. What are the benefits offered by the peacebuilding networks?
2. How can donors and policymakers support networks to strengthen efforts to build and sustain peace?

Key findings include:

• Networks are not just one group of actors aligned around a specific strategy. They are a one-stop shop for the diverse priorities and expertise of its members. 
• Networks have the trust of and legitimacy within the communities.
• Networks struggle with the absence of long-term, flexible, and sustainable funding.

Key recommendations include: 

• Policymakers need to change from wariness and distrust to a collaborative mindset with networks. Regular dialogue is key.
• The international community should ensure the participation of civil society in the design of programmatic approaches and financing mechanisms.
• Networks should make sure that smaller and diverse organisations’ voices are heard and strengthened.