Thematic Pillars

1. Peace, Reconciliation, and Conflict Transformation

We study how conflict evolves at the local level, how communities resolve disputes, and how formal and traditional systems interact. Our research feeds directly into local peace architectures, early warning mechanisms, and cross-border dialogue processes.

Focus areas:

  • Local conflict mapping and power dynamics
  • Community reconciliation pathways
  • Cross-border peace and cooperation
  • Gender and exclusion in peace processes

2. Inclusive Economic Participation

Economic exclusion is a governance and peace issue. We analyze local markets, employment patterns, and barriers facing youth, women, and minority groups, and link these findings to policy and programming.

Focus areas:

  • Private sector ecosystem analysis
  • Youth employment pathways
  • Livelihoods and radicalization risk
  • Inclusion in economic recovery processes

3. Narratives, Media, and Social Resilience

Ideas shape stability. We examine how information flows through communities, how narratives influence identity and belonging, and how locally credible voices can counter violence and division.

Focus areas:

  • Community perception studies
  • Local media ecosystems
  • Faith actors in peacebuilding
  • Locally grounded counter-narratives

4. Governance, Accountability, and Social Inclusion

Accountability in Somalia is both formal and informal. We work with district administrations and communities to create practical mechanisms for participation, oversight, and equitable service delivery.

Focus areas:

  • Citizen–government dialogue platforms
  • Social inclusion and non-discrimination
  • Local governance performance and public trust
  • Evidence for policy reform and implementation tracking