We cannot grow a tree from the top: Agenda for action in contexts of fragility

The Peace, Security and Development Network

The following document is a plan for action (2012) from the Peace Security and Development (PSD) Network to mobilize knowledge from academics, policymakers, civil society organisations and the private sector on the issue of peace and development in fragile contexts. It contains policy principles and an agenda for action, also as input for the establishment of the knowledge platform. The title of this agenda refers to the impossibility of enhancing peace, security and development in fragile contexts through engagement with the national level exclusively or by adopting solely a state-centric approach. Also the length of the engagement is important.

The PSD Network found that it is impossible to solve political problems in fragile contexts with short-term technical programmes only. Rather, policies should be built up from the grassroots while, at thesame time, including legitimate sub-national governance structures as well as national representative governments.  All of these actors, at all levels, are the agents of change and transformation.

Peace Security and Development Network 2012

This publication is an outcome of the work of the ‘Peace, Security and Development Network’ (PSDN), established in 2008. The Network aims to support and encourage the sharing of expertise and cooperation between the different Dutch sectors and organisations involved in fragile states. The PSD Network is an initiative under the Schokland Agreements of 2007.

Download PDF
Join our network

Login or register for free to get all access to our network publications. Members can also connect and discuss with other members. Participate in our network.

Thank you for downloading
Help us improve our network. Please fill in the questions.