Training Peacebuilders in Yemen

Overview:

Despite the current instability in Yemen, ICRD’s project to enhance citizen participation in conflict resolution has been making progress. In collaboration with Yemeni consultants who are experts in more traditional conflict resolution practices and tribal engagement, ICRD has: (1) conducted an extensive needs assessment of the staff of a Yemeni partner organization who will be trained as practitioners and trainers of conflict resolution in the field; (2) begun to develop a curriculum for these trainings to include skills in conflict resolution, countering violent extremism (CVE), and conducting similar training in the communities; and (3) begun logistical preparations for the initial training, currently anticipated to take place in later in 2015.

Activities:

Needs Assessment:

Needs assessment surveys were administered to targeted stakeholders, including our local partner and indigenous Peace Committee leadership in the conflict-destabilized Abyan Province. These surveys were designed to assess current capacities, needs, and challenges in areas of conflict resolution, CVE, and conducting training programs. Analysis of the survey results suggests that emphasis should be put on: contemporary tools to integrate with traditional methods; frameworks for more consistent and thorough sharing of knowledge and experience within our partner organization and within the training space; practical methods for facilitation of conflict resolution programming; and collaborative problem-solving.

Curriculum Development:

Based on the above, a curriculum for the training program is under development and near completion. Currently, the curriculum is being designed to focus on: core principles of conflict resolution (and how they relate to traditional local practices); systematic conflict analysis; collaborative problem-solving; formal mediation methods; reconciliation; CVE concepts and methods; and facilitating effective trainings.  

Training Program Preparations:

The original intention was to conduct the training program in the Yemeni capital of Sana’a. However, in light of the current instability and violence, which has resulted in increased risk for both domestic and international participants, challenges for in-country travel, and uncertainty with respect to obtaining visas for foreigners to enter Yemen, ICRD is exploring options to hold this first training in another country. This will entail additional costs, and ICRD continues to seek the generous support of contributors through Global Giving. The organization and its beneficiaries are deeply grateful for the help of previous (and future) donors in making this program – and the empowerment of Yemeni citizens to resist violence – possible.