|
|||||
 |
ICG AssistanceMethodICG's primary role is to persuade and encourage relevant sectors of the international community-in particular, a number of major governments, regional and international organisations-to respond promptly and effectively in the face of impending instability or conflict. While such a role can often be useful in helping to forestall or stave off disasters, it is clear that, in the longer-term, much more needs to be done to help minimise the risk of future crises emerging. Real crisis prevention-lasting prevention- requires strong, stable, civil structures to be constructed at a local level. A vibrant and durable civil society, rule of law, robust democracy and, by extension, strong government accountability are all indispensable hallmarks of stable and peaceful countries. While diplomatic pressure from outside and measures such as tying international development aid to the achievement of certain political objectives by recipient governments can be helpful, it is ultimately only through local action and the persistence of local people, organised within democratic political movements and civil organisations, that such objectives can be achieved. By virtue of being on the ground in a number of countries at risk of crisis, ICG is well placed to help support the work carried out by local civil society groups. In the first place, ICG can provide a certain amount of technical, legal and, at times, modest financial support for such groups. Secondly, in cases where substantial financial and other forms of support are needed, ICG can assist with fundraising, putting local groups in touch with international donors and undertaking advocacy on their behalf. Thirdly, ICG can help bring civil society spokespersons to western capitals to present their case in person before influential officials and to participate in important meetings and conferences.
Examples
|
||||
