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Behind the Numbers: Assessing Indices of Peace, Conflict, and Instability

Date: Monday, September 17, 2007 / Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm 

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"[Indices] represent a broad movement to 'make the important measurable,' to quote former Sec. Def. McNamara, 'instead of making the measurable important.'"

Can peace and stability be measured? If so, what are some of the most helpful indicators for determining at-risk countries and regions? What is the significance of resulting rankings and changes from year to year?

The Institute tried to bring light to these questions by looking at three indices that attempt to quantify aspects of countries' peacefulness, conflict, and instability: the Failed States Index, the Global Peace Index, and Peace and Conflict Instability Ledger. The panel examined the meaning, methodologies, and utility for policymakers and researchers of these and other indices.

Speakers

  • Pauline Baker
    Fund for Peace
  • Joseph Hewitt
    Center for International Development and Conflict Management, University of Maryland
  • Steve Killelea
    Global Peace Index
  • Lawrence Woocher, Discussant
    U.S. Institute of Peace
  • Ian Larsen, Moderator
    U.S. Institute of Peace

 

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