International support is hindered by measures to contain the virus
Current peace processes supported by the international community in countries affected by conflict and Covid-19 are designed in ways that involve multiple stakeholders within and outside countries affected by violent conflicts.
National and local capacities for peace are constrained
While peacebuilding processes may be suspended, conflicts have not been suspended.
Local actors that are embedded in communities impacted by conflict can continue to work on sustaining peace processes even when professional peace-builders are unable to gain access to these communities in the face of lockdowns and restricted movements.
Instead of suspending their work, local peacebuilders should be recruited by national and international actors to engage local conflict actors on issues relating to the pandemic.
It is important to work with local actors to communicate the right messages that will stop the spread of the pandemic to rural areas affected by violent conflicts.
