How do we know we are on track when it comes to post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction? How do we know that our military, diplomatic and development interventions are working? These experts believe that one key indicator when gauging success is women’s participation and access to the political, economic and social arenas.

Gender

This event features four USIP grantees from Afghanistan, Iraq, Colombia and Sudan who are intimately familiar with the on-the-ground realities in their countries. The grantees discuss implementing peacebuilding projects in difficult and dangerous environments. Washington planners will be able to hear first hand what on-the-ground practitioners are doing to stay safe while getting important work done.  

Conflict Analysis & Prevention

Antony Blinken, the national security adviser to Vice President Biden, recently returned from his trip to Baghdad with the vice president. He outlined the Obama administration's views on the new U.S.-Iraqi relationship and Iraq's government formation process.  Dr. Laith Kubba, former spokesperson for the Iraqi government, provided a response from the Iraqi perspective. 

After more than seven years, the U.S. combat mission in Iraq ended on August 31.  The nature of the U.S. commitment to Iraq is now transforming from a military mission to a civilian effort led by American diplomats.  Ambassador Christopher Hill, having just completed his tour serving as America’s top diplomat in Iraq, reflected on Iraq’s transition, politics, current situation and future prospects. 

Conflict Analysis & Prevention

Competition for access to, and control of, abundant natural resources often triggers and sustains violent conflict. In Afghanistan, the award of the lucrative Aynak copper mines to the Metallurgical Corporation of China (MCC) in 2007 has raised a number of eyebrows. How could Afghanistan ensure that mining does not foster or fuel conflict?  The panel explored these questions.

Environment;  Economics

Maritime security adds an extra dimension to security sector reform (SSR).  All the aspects of land SSR apply, but there is an additional need for capacity and resources to counter threats of piracy, terrorism, pollution and trafficking.

Global Policy;  Environment;  Economics

In recent years, the United Nations has emerged as an indispensible actor in Iraq, implementing a broad mandate which includes political dialogue and national reconciliation, electoral support, regional dialogue and humanitarian relief and reconstruction. As the U.S. role in Iraq diminishes, the U.N. and other international partners will be looked at to take on even greater responsibility. USIP hosted a stimulating discussion on the U.N.’s role in Iraq, Iraq’s political process and ongoing go...

U.S. attempts in Iraq and Afghanistan have been unsuccessful in training local police to deal with insurgency, terrorism and criminal violence. How are effective, accountable, and legitimate police forces crafted in conflict states?

Education & Training