21 March 2018: The UN and World Bank have published a joint report that argues for greater attention and financing to be directed to identifying the risk of violence in “hot spots” around the world. The report, which was presented at an event in Brussels, Belgium, sets out the business case for refocusing on prevention, noting that identifying risks of violence could save an estimated US$5-70 billion a year, the amount currently spent on crisis response and recovery.

The report titled, ‘Pathways For Peace,’ notes an increase in violent conflict around the world in recent years. The authors anticipate that by 2030 more than half of the world’s poor will be living in countries affected by high levels of violence. The report emphasizes inclusive and sustainable development that promotes resilient societies as the solution.

The UN-World Bank report highlights the path-dependent nature of violent conflict, whereby societies can get caught in a “conflict trap.” The authors propose that: prevention must be sustained over the long term; efforts must be based on understanding ongoing grievances in society; and attention should be given to existing rivalries for power, resources and security. The authors highlight that many conflicts involve private sector and non-state actors who are not easily reached by state institutions or agents.

Speaking at the presentation, Jago Salmon, advisor to the UN/World Bank Partnership on Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations, stressed the need for a shift from conflict management to “inclusive prevention.” The report recommends that inclusive prevention should involve strengthening the capacity of society as a whole, not only state capacity. They urge including women, youth, businesses and civil society in preventive action.

The agencies’ collaboration is based on their shared commitment to implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which includes a commitment to reducing poverty and strengthening institutions. [UNRIC Press Release] [Report Webpage] [Publication: Pathways for Peace: Inclusive Approaches to Preventing Violent Conflict]