Reducing violence and strengthening the protection of civilians through community dialogue with armed actors

In a global context of more and more fragmented situations of violence and conflict, egregious abuses against civilians, increasing levels of humanitarian need, and decreasing resources, alternative approaches are urgently required to reduce violence and strengthen civilian safety.

This report brings together over two years of research. The research sought to understand how communities directly and indirectly engage with armed actors; what factors, actions and actors affect the terms of engagement; and what the opportunities, challenges and risks are for greater complementarity between humanitarian, protection and peacebuilding actors. It draws on consultations with a broad spectrum of over 750 people.