The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has launched two new conflict management and mitigation projects: Community Initiatives for Common Understanding, and Inclusive Resource Management Initiative.  The projects will focus on the Mid- and Far-Western regions of Nepal and address the root causes of conflict by bringing together representatives of conflicting groups to seek solutions in a safe space.

Implemented by Saferworld, Community Initiatives for Common Understanding is a three-year, $1.14 million project to foster understanding and cooperation between conflicting groups in 15 VDCs in the Kailali, Bardiya, Surkhet, Banke, and Sunsari districts.  In partnership with two local organizations, Child Workers in Nepal and Informal Sector Service Centre, the project will engage 9,000 at-risk and conflict-affected youth, including ex-combatants, and their communities.  The project will break down barriers to peaceful dialogue, and promote collaboration on community development activities.  

The Inclusive Resource Management Initiative is a two-year, $1.16 million project to enhance stability through natural resource conflict resolution and inclusive natural resource management in 20 VDCs of Kailali, Bardiya, Banke, and Dang districts.  Mercy Corps will implement the project through two local partners, Backward Society Education and Shakarmi Samaj.  IRMI will benefit 237,000 community members, particularly youth and women, in these four districts that experience natural resources pressures.  The project will facilitate natural resource-based conflict resolution; promote inclusive management; and reduce natural resource competition through joint environmental and economic initiatives.  

“These projects are designed to support conflict management and mitigation while encouraging local-level peace and reconciliation: the path to building a democratic, resilient, and prosperous Nepal,” said Ms. Sheila Lutjens, Acting Director of USAID Nepal. These two new projects will complement USAID’s governance, health, agriculture, environment, and education activities in the Mid- and Far-West.