Atrocity Prevention and Conflict Prevention: From Silos to Synthesis

Despite their similar goals, the fields of atrocity prevention and conflict prevention operate in different spheres, with few points of overlap. In new analysis from Lisa Schirch, director of Human Security at the Alliance for Peacebuilding, and Alison Giffen, senior associate and codirector of the Future of Peace Operations Program at the Stimson Center, the similarities and differences between the two fields are identified through key case studies with distinct, contrasting atrocity prevention and conflict prevention approaches.

The coauthors’ policy recommendations advocate for a more coherent and collaborative policy agenda between the two fields, drawing on their unique histories and institutional structures. The policy salon will begin with a brief presentation by the coauthors, after which, experts from both fields will be able to respond to the draft analysis and dialogue about ways to strengthen collaboration, recognizing the internal diversity of opinion within each field.