Conflict

This topic guide introduces key aspects of analysis, prevention and reconstruction in countries affected by violent conflict. Violent conflict has devastating effects on those living in its midst. In addition to the direct impact of human rights violations on individuals (particularly women, children and vulnerable minorities), conflict causes political and economic instability, weakens or destroys governance structures, disrupts development initiatives, aggravates poverty and exacerbates social problems, such as exclusion. Many of these issues (for example governance failures or social exclusion) can be both causes and results of conflict. 

Conflict is inherent to all societies and arises when two or more societal groups pursue incompatible objectives. It is a dynamic process that can lead to positive or negative change. Certain forms of conflict are essential for developmental change, such as democratic debate in parliament. Violent conflicts occur when the institutions that manage conflict in society (such as political systems, informal institutions, or the justice sector) are no longer able to accommodate different interest groups through negotiation, compromise and grievance resolution.

Users of this guide may also be interested in the GSDRC's topic guides on fragile states and security and development as well as the section on rights, conflict and fragile states in the topic guide on human rights and development. 

This guide was prepared by Joanna Crichton and Anna Orrnert. The GSDRC appreciates the contributions of Robin Luckham, Institute of Development Studies; Rebecca Shah, International Development Department, University of Birmingham; and Rob Wilkinson, Judith Kent, and others at DFID. Comments, questions or documents for consideration should be sent to Zoe Scott.

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