In this episode, we talk with Sandra Melone, Executive Vice President of Search for Common Ground, about the importance of monitoring and evaluating peacebuilding programs. This includes discussion on transparency, self-deception, balancing evaluation needs of stakeholders and organizational ones, and working with external evaluators.

The Peace Frequency presents in-depth interviews with ordinary people doing extraordinary things to create a world free of violent conflict. It is produced by the U.S. Institute of Peace Academy.

Related Publications

The Latest @ USIP: Democratic Renewal in Africa

The Latest @ USIP: Democratic Renewal in Africa

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

By: Jide Okeke

Democracy remains quite popular throughout Africa. But many Africans see a mismatch between the promises of democratic governance and their leaders’ inability to address prolonged bouts of corruption, abuse and insecurity. This mismatch can often lead to a political culture that sees military coups as a viable alternative. Jide Okeke, regional coordinator for Africa at the U.N. Development Programme, discusses the risk factors that precipitate military coups, and the steps that regional and international actors can take to strengthen democratic governance and security.

Type: Blog

Democracy & Governance

A Conversation with Chadian Prime Minister Succès Masra

A Conversation with Chadian Prime Minister Succès Masra

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

By: Succès Masra

Nearly three years into its transition process, Chad faces a pivotal milestone: the organization of presidential and local elections in 2024. Against a backdrop of regional turbulence and instability, the holding of credible and transparent elections in Chad will be a key test for democracy and durable peace. USIP spoke with Chad’s new Prime Minister Succès Masra on pathways to strengthen civic space and political participation ahead of Chad’s general elections and how Chad’s transition might inform other political transitions throughout Africa.

Type: Blog

Democracy & GovernancePeace Processes

A Perilous Moment for Bangladesh’s Democracy

A Perilous Moment for Bangladesh’s Democracy

Monday, March 4, 2024

By: Geoffrey Macdonald, Ph.D.

Bangladesh’s parliamentary elections in January cemented the country’s transition to a “dominant-party” political system. Aided by an opposition boycott on Election Day, the Awami League (AL) extended its 15 years in power with another five-year term, which will soon make Bangladesh’s prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, the world’s longest continuously serving female head of government in contemporary history. But political dominance comes with risk. Around the world, dominant-party systems often develop common maladies that harm the country’s governance. Ensuring competition across politics, government and the economy can forestall these problems.

Type: Analysis

Democracy & GovernanceGlobal Elections & Conflict

Myanmar: New Data Show Wide Support for Unity Government

Myanmar: New Data Show Wide Support for Unity Government

Thursday, February 29, 2024

By: Jangai Jap, Ph.D.;  Amy H. Liu, Ph.D.

The three-month offensive by Myanmar’s alliance of disparate ethnic armed groups has weakened the military regime more than at any time since it seized power three years ago. This highlights a question for international policymakers: Could the anti-coup forces stabilize Myanmar? New public opinion data bolsters evidence that the National Unity Government (NUG) — which combines representatives elected in the 2020 election and ethnic minority leaders — has a solid basis to lead such an effort, holding strong popular support across Myanmar’s numerous ethnic groups. Such stabilization will depend on the NUG’s ability to deepen its inclusivity and responsiveness and broaden its political coalition.

Type: Analysis

Democracy & Governance

View All Publications