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90 E The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (the HD Centre) is an independent organisation dedicated to improving the prevention of, and response to, armed conflict. We open channels of communication and mediate between parties in conflict, facilitate dialogue, and provide support to the broader mediation and peacebuilding community. We deploy our expertise to support local and nationally-owned processes that protect civilians and foster lasting and just peace.
© 2012 Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue Reproduction of all or part of this publication may be authorised only with written consent and acknowledgement of the source. Arctic Circle
Annual report 2011 Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue
Contents
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Tropic of Cancer
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About the HD Centre Institutional highlights 0 W 20 E 10 W 20 W 30 60 W
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Operational highlights FinancesTropic of Capricorn & Governance
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Antarctic Circle About the HD Centre
About the HD Centre Annual report 2011
Jean-Marie Guéhenno A message from the Chairman
2011 saw breakthrough in two confidential projects. for the HD Centre. David Harland has re-focused the The HD Centre’s founding principles have been fun- organisation on its core strength ; the ability to respond damental to those successes. In undertaking its work rapidly and independently to global crises with high with professionalism and integrity, the HD Centre has quality but quiet engagement. From Africa to Asia, the gained credit with international organisations and indi- HD Centre has repeatedly been called upon to contri- viduals alike, and that credit ultimately translates into bute its expertise in order to defuse and mediate conflict. credibility. The HD Centre has emerged from a period of uncer- As an independent mediation organisation, the HD tainty with a new understanding of its vital place in the Centre can work on, with, or alongside national peace peacemaking world and a clear vision for the future. processes without being caught up in national politics. The HD Centre Board supports this vision and the im- It has no national agenda, but believes dialogue is pressive diplomatic and financial expertise of the three the most effective route to peace. By remaining inde- new Board members will add to its ability to help the pendent of governments, taking an impartial approach HD Centre bring it to fruition. On behalf of the Board, to all parties involved in conflict and acting with dis- I would like to extend my thanks to David and all the cretion, the HD Centre has generated an invaluable staff at the HD Centre for their energy and efforts in ‘capital of trust’ among those with which it works. 2011 and we look forward, with anticipation, to further progress in pursuing the HD Centre’s vision in 2012. Successful projects and partnerships all contribute to this ‘capital of trust’ and 2011 has been significant, Mr Jean-Marie Guéhenno temporarily stepped down not only in terms of operational successes but also in from his positions as member and Chairman of the terms of the number of important new projects the HD HD Centre Board in late March 2012 following his Centre has initiated. The network of contacts built up appointment as Deputy Joint Special Envoy of the over the years by the HD Centre in the Middle East and United Nations and the League of Arab States on North Africa area has allowed the organisation to react Syria. Ambassador Jenö Staehelin will assume the quickly to the Arab Spring. Under the leadership of its position of Acting Chairman during this period. new Executive Director, the HD Centre has been able to launch new projects and to make progress on old ones, making 2011 one of the most successful years
6 Annual report 2011 About the HD Centre
Our Mission
The HD Centre is an independent organisation dedicated to improving the prevention of, and response to, armed conflict. We open channels of communication and mediate between parties in conflict, facilitate dialogue, and provide support to the broader mediation and peacebuilding community. We deploy our expertise to support local and nationally-owned processes that protect civilians and foster lasting and just peace.
Our Vision
Our organisation was founded to pursue Henry Dunant’s vision of a world more humane. We aim, through mediation and dialogue, to reduce the suffering caused by armed conflict in our world – where possible, to prevent such conflict ; otherwise to help resolve it ; or to mitigate its consequences.
Our Values & Principles
The HD Centre embraces a set of values that foster integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity in all areas of its work. We subscribe to the core humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and operational independence and are committed to respecting international principles in relation to human rights and humanitarian affairs.
7 About the HD Centre Annual report 2011
The hD CenTre Changing to meet new challenges in peacemaking
Since 1999, the Centre for Humani- Centre’s determination to prevent to diffuse tensions surrounding tarian Dialogue (the HD Centre) has violence wherever possible, the or- the Liberian presidential elections. been working to reduce human suf- ganisation has established a series The HD Centre also endeavours fering by resolving the armed con- of initiatives to smooth transitions to share its experiences and ex- flicts which often cause it. Working in countries in the Middle East and pertise with the wider mediation on the understanding that dialogue North Africa following the 2011 upris- profession through initiatives with is the most effective and peaceful ings. In addition, based on the belief regional organisations such as the way to resolve disputes, the HD that inclusive peace processes help African Union and the Association Centre focuses its efforts on open- to create sustainable peace, the HD of Southeast Asian Nations, as ing up channels of communication Centre is also working internationally well as through publications. between belligerents in order to to increase the participation of wo- provide a viable alternative to armed men in those processes. In order to operate on an interna- violence. tional scale, the HD Centre draws The HD Centre’s work is also on a network of advisers and ex- As well as confidential mediation founded on the principle that me- perts who often work alongside processes between the principal diation efforts work best in part- the organisation’s own staff. After protagonists involved in armed nership, rather than in competi- more than a decade of operations, conflicts, the HD Centre under- tion, with each other. As a result, the HD Centre has an enviable takes dialogue which is focused the HD Centre’s work includes network of international contacts on resolving humanitarian crises supporting the mediation efforts and its initial success in mediat- caused by conflicts and disputes. of others. In 2011, for example, ing the Aceh conflict in Indonesia These initiatives may focus on the HD Centre sent a small team demonstrated its ability to operate agreeing access for humanitarian to support the efforts of the United at the highest level. The HD Centre personnel to reach civilians caught Nations Mission in Liberia and is also able to draw on its net- up in conflict (for example, in Dar- the Special Envoy of the Eco- work in order to convene the most fur) or ensuring people are treated nomic Community of West African pertinent peacemakers at the in line with international humanitar- States, as well as the Liberian prestigious Oslo forum retreats for ian standards. As part of the HD National Elections Commission, mediators which the HD Centre
8 Annual report 2011 About the HD Centre
co-hosts with the Royal Norwegian resolved, have changed. They also Ministry of Foreign Affairs. reflect changes in the strategic di- rection of the organisation which The HD Centre’s headquarters in are intended to maximise the con- Geneva are based in the Villa Plan- tribution the HD Centre can make tamour on the shores of lake Léman to preventing and resolving conflict and near other international organ- in order to avoid and reduce the isations. The Villa provides the human suffering it causes. perfect setting for the HD Centre’s Villa Plantamour, HD Centre headquarters activities. The organisation also has regional offices in Asia and Africa to support its field-based approach to peacemaking. Working on the understanding At an institutional level, the HD Cen- tre prides itself on its professional- that dialogue is the most effective and ism, independence and impartiality and it is continually innovating to peaceful way to resolve disputes, adapt to the rapidly-changing situ- ations in which it works. In 2011, a the HD Centre focuses its efforts on strategic review of the HD Centre identified the need for some signifi- opening channels of communication cant changes to the organisation’s approach. The HD Centre’s new between belligerents in order to provide vision, mission, values and princi- ples now reflect the fact that inter- a viable alternative to armed violence. national conflicts, and the ways in which they may be prevented and
9 About the HD Centre Annual report 2011
1095 Days froM now Strategic review
One of the HD Centre’s strengths is ciling opposing groups within the erations, providing leadership and its ability to adapt to fast-changing wider societies which surround the oversight as well as maintaining environments and, since the or- conflict. The organisation will also close links with Swiss and interna- ganisation’s inception in 1999, the continue to mediate with conflict tional counterparts. environment which surrounds it parties on humanitarian concerns has changed dramatically. In some and promote the role of women, To ensure synergies between the cases, the causes of conflict are and the consideration of gender organisation’s global programmes different today than they were a issues, in all stages of the process and its operational projects, the decade ago and there are many towards peace. organisation’s new Mediation Sup- more organisations out there seek- port and Policy division will provide ing to resolve those conflicts when To support its humanitarian mission a combination of surge capacity they arise. to prevent and resolve conflict, the for HD Centre projects and share HD Centre aims to offer support its repository of knowledge with As an organisation known for inno- at critical periods, such as during the global mediation community. vation and agility, in 2011 the HD elections and transitions. The or- The HD Centre will also actively Centre undertook a strategic review ganisation will also focus its field seek out and strengthen partner- to re-assess the environment for presence on those places around ships with local, national and inter- conflict mediation and its own place the world where there is the great- national organisations to ensure a within it. This process provided both est risk of violence. As part of its complementary approach. a clear vision for the future direction aim for modest growth, the HD of the organisation and a strategy Centre intends to expand its op- Famed for being fast and flexible, to achieve it. erations to include West Africa, the HD Centre aims to achieve South Asia and the Pacific as well this next stage in its evolution as Building on its unique background as seeking out new opportunities an organisation within three years. in private diplomacy, the HD Centre to work in Central Asia. By 2015, the HD Centre seeks to will continue to mediate between increase its efficiency and effective- conflict parties while also work- As an international humanitarian ness further as well as its reputa- ing to achieve sustainable peace centre, Geneva will remain at the tion for independence, impartiality through initiatives aimed at recon- nucleus of the HD Centre’s op- and innovation.
10 Annual report 2011 About the HD Centre
The hD CenTre’s faCes Presenting the HD Centre through its staff
Where are you based ? I am based in the HD Centre’s office in Geneva.
What is your role at the HD Centre ? I head the HD Centre’s Policy and Mediation Support Programme.
What does this involve on a day-to-day basis ? I spend most of my time collaborating with colleagues on the HD Centre’s mediation activities. This might involve offering advice on substantive issues Katia Papagianni such as power-sharing or minority rights. It might also involve identifying experts or designing a process. I also advise on the preparation of work- shops and meetings led by the HD Centre, including the Oslo forum. Finally, I represent the HD Centre by giving public talks or discussing our work with peer organisations, analysts or donors.
What is your previous experience in peacemaking ? Before joining the HD Centre, I worked for international organisations, including the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe and the United Nations. I also worked for non-governmental organisations and research centres. Geographically, my focus was on Eastern Europe and the Balkans, as well as Iraq.
What inspired you to join the HD Centre ? I was attracted by the diversity of the HD Centre’s work, namely its en- gagement in several countries but also its strong policy work. Also, I was committed to the HD Centre’s core principle, namely relying on dialogue to resolve disputes.
11 Institutional highlights
Institutional highlights Annual report 2011
inTroDuCinG DaviD harlanD A new leadership
With a history of senior United Na- tions roles in places as diverse as Southeast Asia, East Africa, the Balkans and Haiti, it is probably not surprising that the HD Centre’s new Executive Director can also get by in an impressive number of languages. Guests arriving at the HD Centre’s headquarters in Geneva may be surprised to be greeted by Dr Harland not only in French or English, but also in Mandarin, Swahili or South Slav languages.
A New Zealand national, Dr Har- Dr David Harland land completed his undergraduate studies in his home country before During his career, Dr Harland has dination of Humanitarian Affairs undertaking advanced studies in served as Acting Deputy Special (OCHA) and as Political Advisor Beijing and at Harvard and Tufts Representative of the Secretary- to the Commander of the United Universities in the United States. General in the turbulent areas of Nations Protection Force (UN- He joined the United Nations in Timor Leste, Kosovo and Haiti. He PROFOR) in Sarajevo, Bosnia and 1991 and has spent a significant also has extensive experience with Herzegovina. part of his career in United Nations the United Nations Department of field operations and at its head- Peacekeeping Operations, initially Throughout his career, Dr Harland quarters in New York. His wealth of focusing on best practices and has retained an interest in the analy- international experience reflects his managing change before becom- sis of international affairs and his own interest in international affairs ing the Director of the Europe and published writing includes articles for and his appointment also reflects Latin America Division. Dr Harland academic journals, opinion pieces the global organisation which the has also worked as a Senior Policy for the New York Times and the HD Centre is becoming. Advisor for the Office of the Coor- International Herald Tribune, as well
14 Annual report 2011 Institutional highlights
as a book on the implementation Since joining the HD Centre as sharing what the HD Centre has of public international law. Having Executive Director in 2011, Dr Har- learned, not only through expand- been a Teaching Fellow at Harvard land has identified areas where the ing support to the African Union University, Dr Harland retains an in- organisation’s unique strengths can and others, but also as Chairman terest in academic study through his actively contribute to creating sus- of the World Economic Forum’s role as an Adjunct Professor in the tainable peace. This has resulted in Global Agenda Council on Conflict School of Advanced International new work in the countries touched Prevention. Studies at Johns Hopkins University by the Arab Spring and in West in Bologna. Africa. Dr Harland is committed to
Dr harland says — Hello (and bonjour, ni hao, habari and dobar dan/zdravo)
What inspired you to join the HD Centre What has been the biggest challenge as its Executive Director ? in your first year in the role ? The HD Centre is unique. It has found a niche in the The HD Centre’s vulnerability is its finances. It takes international system that allows it to make a contri- a special kind of donor to love the HD Centre. There bution to peace that no-one else can make. When can be reversals ; there can be long dry spells ; there warring parties need a private and informal way can be results that can’t be widely talked about. We to address their differences, the HD Centre can lost the UK as a donor and were fortunate that new provide that like no-one else. Having spent much donors came in time to underwrite the surge of new of my life in the peacemaking business, I wanted work in the Arab Spring areas and elsewhere. We to be a part of it. need to reduce the volatility of our finances if we are to make the long-term commitments that peace- What was your vision for the organisation making work requires. when you joined ? My vision is to take the HD Centre global. The HD Where will the HD Centre be focusing Centre has shown that it can open the doors to its efforts in the future ? peace in places, as UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- The pattern of armed conflict in our world is chang- moon said during his visit here, where others can’t ing, and the HD Centre will have to change with it. go. We need to have the ambition, the capacity, Conventional warfare continues to decline, as it has and the systems, to offer our services whenever done for two decades. Asymmetric warfare, on the and wherever they can be employed to good effect. other hand, and conflicts that blur with criminality, continue to grow. So we can’t just have the media- What do you consider the HD Centre’s most tion tools that can work with conventional warfare. significant successes in 2011 ? We need to have a range of peacemaking tools 2011 was a good year for the HD Centre. We were adapted to the contexts in which we work. able to play positive roles in several of the Arab Spring contexts. A cycle of work in Laos led to a You have worked in Geneva before (as a major rapprochement between the Government Senior Policy Advisor for OCHA). How has it and the Hmong community. The long-running talks changed since the last time you were here ? between the Government of the Philippines and Geneva is the global hub for humanitarian action. the MILF insurgency took a big step forward. In If anything, more so than when I was last here, a Liberia, we were able to play a role in diffusing the decade ago. By being here, we can contribute to post-election crisis. And there were exciting things the global humanitarian response to crises – from happening in the confidential projects… Somalia to Syria. By having a place where we can work – quietly, if necessary – with the humanitarian community, we can help build a better response.
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UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visits the HD Centre
In October 2011, the HD Centre figure at the United Nations, em- was honoured to welcome United phasised how important a strong Nations Secretary-General Ban partnership with the UN was to Ki-moon to its headquarters in the HD Centre’s international work Geneva. Mr Ban Ki-moon, who in mediation and conflict preven- was in Geneva to visit the United tion. He also recognised the role Nations office, spent time with the of the United Nations in expanding HD Centre’s Executive Director, the use of mediation and dialogue Dr David Harland, and addressed in conflict resolution and thanked staff from the HD Centre in the the Secretary-General for the UN’s 1 atrium of the Villa Plantamour. efforts.
Referring to one of the HD Cen- identified as Secretary-General of The Secretary-General also took tre’s early achievements, the UN the United Nations – underlining to the opportunity to add to the spirit Secretary-General noted the sig- HD Centre staff that this is “exactly of partnership by calling on the HD nificant impact of the HD Cen- what you are doing”. Centre and the United Nations to tre’s activities, underlining that its work together “for common peace work had “led to peace and saved Having been briefed by Dr Harland and prosperity” around the world. countless lives – starting with [the on the HD Centre’s work in South- HD Centre’s] first project, between east Asia and Africa as well as in the Government of Indonesia and new areas such as Libya, Mr Ban the Free Aceh Movement”. Ki-moon said that the HD Centre was “working to help countries The Secretary-General highlighted find a new, inclusive path to sta- the HD Centre’s role in preventive bility” and was able to operate in diplomacy – which is one of the five “some places the UN cannot go”. “generational imperatives” he has Dr Harland, himself a former senior
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“Your work has led to peace and saved countless lives…” 3 UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon
1 & 3. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon meets with HD Centre staff, Oct. 2011 2. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Dr David Harland, HD Centre Executive Director 4 4. On the terrace of the Villa Plantamour, the HD Centre’s headquarters in Geneva.
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Perspectives on the Arab Spring
Following a successful event in under Qaddafi and described her is a former Director General of the 2010 to celebrate the HD Centre’s role in the early days of the revo- International Committee of the Red first decade as an independent lution in Benghazi as well as her Cross, and Dr Michael Vatikiotis, mediation organisation, in 2011 the experience as a former member of the Regional Director for Asia, HD Centre invited Genevan repre- the National Transitional Council. who is generally based in the HD sentatives and international guests Dr El-Gallal also offered guests an Centre’s Singapore office. The HD for lunch at its headquarters to insight into her work providing a Centre was also represented by hear about the organisation’s latest watchdog function for the protec- two members of its Foundation work. tion of human rights and interna- Board with former Swiss Ambassa- tional law in Libya since leaving dor Jenö Staehelin and the current The event was held at the Villa the National Transitional Council Secretary-General of Fondation Plantamour, the HD Centre head- as well as her collaboration with Lombard Odier and former Chair- quarters. Dr David Harland wel- the HD Centre in developing an man of the HD Centre Board, Karin comed representatives from the inclusive dialogue process in the Jestin, also present. City and Canton of Geneva as well country. This initiative aims to as a number of guests from inter- bring together representatives The event provided an opportu- national organisations and compa- from Libyan civil society and gov- nity for the HD Centre to exchange nies based nearby. The event also ernment as well as armed groups ideas and information with the sup- drew distinguished guests from the to find ways to develop a peaceful portive community which surrounds banking sector and local media. transition process. the HD Centre’s headquarters and to strengthen ties with the local and The HD Centre was honoured to After Dr El-Gallal’s evocative international communities in the city. welcome Dr Hana El-Gallal as a speech, the HD Centre hosted guest speaker for this occasion. lunch at the Villa. The HD Centre’s Dr El-Gallal, a Swiss-Libyan citizen Executive Director was joined by who was deeply involved in the two of the organisation’s Regional Libyan revolution, gave a vibrant Directors – the Middle East Region- personal account of life in Libya al Director Angelo Gnaedinger, who
18 Annual report 2011 Institutional highlights
Dr Harland addresses guests during lunch, 21 November 2011.
About the speaker
Combining Swiss and Libyan perspectives
Dr Hana El-Gallal
A Swiss and Libyan citizen, Dr Hana El-Gallal re- violence as well as media and education. Since ceived her doctorate at the University of Bern in leaving the NTC, she has established an organisa- 2009 and is a Professor of International Law at tion which serves as a watchdog for human rights the University of Benghazi in Libya. She has also and international law and she has begun to work worked for a number of international and non- with the HD Centre on its Libyan dialogue initiative. governmental organisations. As one of the new voices which have emerged Dr El-Gallal got involved in the Libyan revolutionary from Libyan society, Dr El-Gallal was able to pro- movement in its early days and subsequently held vide those attending the lunch with a fascinating a number of positions in the Libyan National Tran- insight into events in Libya and the HD Centre’s sitional Council (NTC). Her main focus during the work in the country. revolution was on human rights and gender-based
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Operational highlights Annual report 2011
Middle East & North Africa The hD Centre responds to sweeping changes in the region
Since early 2011, the Arab world on the Future of Libya”. While the to engage in political processes has been rocked by a number of liberation of the country was for- in the future and promotes the uprisings and revolutions, repre- mally declared on 23 October 2011, non-violent settlement of disputes senting a collective aspiration for the HD Centre’s initiative has con- between Libyans. political and social change. This tinued in the post-conflict period. was a momentous time for the It involved nine dialogue events in In Syria, what began in March 2011 Arab world and for the HD Centre 2011 which provided a platform as a protest demanding democratic which saw a significant increase in for a range of representatives from reform and subsequently regime its portfolio of work in the region Libyan civil society, armed groups, change has transformed into a and the start of new projects in Lib- the National Transitional Council violent conflict with sectarian un- ya, Syria and Tunisia. The region, (NTC) and the Interim Government dertones, implications for regional which had previously been largely to discuss and develop solutions to stability and no end in sight. One of closed to involvement from smaller, the critical questions facing Libya the key risks related to this political non-governmental conflict preven- during the transition period includ- and military stalemate is the poten- tion and resolution actors, was now ing transitional justice, the elec- tial for growing sectarianism. The in great need of the type of assis- tions law, and security and arms HD Centre is exploring avenues to tance the HD Centre could offer. proliferation. The initiative has also promote dialogue around the future provided a framework in which of the country’s minorities in order The HD Centre began its engage- inter-communal conflicts could be to reduce sectarian tensions and ment in Libya in 2011 during the explored and addressed. The HD violence. This process is focused conflict between the Qaddafi regime Centre’s initiative continues to em- on developing a dialogue between and revolutionary forces. Despite power civil society and other stake- members of Syria’s Sunni, Alawite the difficult conditions, the HD Cen- holders to voice their opinions in a and Christian communities, and on tre was able to help develop an “All constructive and systematic manner reaching out to other relevant par- Inclusive Libyan Dialogue Process in Libya. It develops Libyan capacity ties to the crisis.
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In Tunisia, there were peaceful sus around the transition process. protests and the regime of Zine Tunisia held its first democratic el Abdine Ben Ali ended in Janu- elections on 23 October 2011 and ary 2011. Since this time, the HD the HD Centre has maintained its Centre has been interacting with low key efforts in the post-election a number of local stakeholders period. to improve mutual understanding between them and foster consen-
Rapid response to events in Libya
In April 2011, at the height of the conflict be- tween the Qaddafi regime and revolutionary forces in Libya, the HD Centre initiated an as- sessment to consider how the organisation could help. Beyond the struggle between the regime and the opposition, the HD Centre identified a need for improved dialogue between factions within the opposition forces and among society Participant at the ‘Dialogue on Hopes and Fears for the Future more generally. of Libya’, Tripoli, Sept. 2011.
The day after tensions erupted with the assas- believed their internal rifts were manageable. sination of revolutionary commander General However, the assassination underscored the Abdul Fatah Younis, the HD Centre proceeded challenges of building a new cohesive society. with a planned introductory meeting in Beng- The HD Centre has subsequently convened hazi with representatives from Libya’s National similar introductory meetings in Tripoli, only Transitional Council (NTC), armed groups and one week after the city fell to revolutionary civil society to identify their hopes and fears for forces, and Misrata, in the immediate aftermath the future of Libya. Until this time, most had of Qaddafi’s capture and death.
The HD Centre has since undertaken several dia- logue workshops in Libya on security, transitional justice and electoral processes. Two of these workshops marked the first public discussion between the NTC and Libyan representatives of important draft laws on Transitional Justice and Elections. Through these events, the HD Centre has contributed to increased understanding of the laws, transparency in decision-making and con- sultation on the laws’ content. The HD Centre’s dialogue platform also proved to be a catalyst, inspiring similar autonomous dialogue initia- Misrata local elections, February 2012. tives by event participants.
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an ouTsiDe PersPeCTive on The hD CenTre Interview with Talis Aghil libyan activist and national Project Coordinator, international institute for Democracy and electoral assistance (iDea)
What is the nature of your collaboration from different tribes and with different views and with the HD Centre ? backgrounds came together in one room and shared I was one of the HD Centre’s first points of contact in their views. This is very important, especially since Tripoli after the revolution. I volunteered to help the HD everybody now has got guns : they need to know that Centre organise its first dialogue session in Libya after dialogue is an effective option to enact change. Con- the revolution and continued to assist the HD Centre veying this message is how the HD Centre helps the during this initial phase. situation.
How did you become involved with the What are the most significant changes HD Centre ? you’ve seen as a result of the HD Centre’s I have been a Libyan youth activist for many years work in your area ? and one of my contacts, who was in Europe at the People who have been to the HD Centre events have time, put the HD Centre in touch with me. I was very learned new skills and ways of interacting with one an- impressed with the concept of dialogue which the HD other : communication, dialogue and mediation skills. Centre was promoting and thought that it was really This means that they are more effective at resolving important for the Libyan people to be able to come their differences without violence. together and freely express their feelings and views The HD Centre has brought together people who after 42 years of dictatorship. I believe that what the would not normally meet. This means that they under- HD Centre does is important for Libya, so this inspired stand each other more easily and can relate to people me to become involved in helping the HD Centre with with different backgrounds and begin to trust them. its work in Tripoli. What more could be done to improve What is the HD Centre doing to help the local situation ? the situation in your area ? The Libyan people are stuck in the mentality of a The HD Centre was one of the first organisations to war for liberation ; they need to begin waging a war arrive in Tripoli : the Libyan people appreciate this and for peace. They need to see that there are different it means that the HD Centre was able to prove itself options for moving to the next phase of building the quickly and earn their trust. Before, nobody had heard country. The HD Centre could contribute to this by of the HD Centre ; now, people across Libya know bringing its expertise from other countries which have about the HD Centre and appreciate its work. gone through similar transitions. When we organised the first dialogue workshop on 5 September, we were introducing the people of Tripoli to a whole new concept. It was the first time that people
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The hD CenTre’s faCes Presenting the HD Centre through its staff
Where are you based ? In the HD Centre’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
What is your role at the HD Centre ? I am in charge of initiating, developing and managing the HD Centre’s projects in the Middle East and North Africa.
What does this involve on a day-to-day basis ? One of the major aspects of my job is developing and maintaining a trusted relationship with all the parties involved in dialogue processes facilitated by the HD Centre. I participate in the framing and conduct of these processes which requires field visits to understand the local dynamics and contexts Romain Grandjean as well as the perceptions and needs of the local and international actors. Preserving the integrity of the processes, overseeing logistics and manag- ing administrative, financial, staff and security arrangements is also part of my day-to-day work, and working with first-class colleagues is my privilege.
What is your previous experience in peacemaking ? In 1999 – 2000, I spent seven months as a field humanitarian officer in Mitrovica, a divided city in Kosovo, and understood the value of main- taining dialogue between local conflicting parties to reduce the level of violence. After more than two years based in Egypt with the International Crisis Group (2003 – 2005), I worked in several conflict areas like the Gaza Strip, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone on international electoral observation missions. In 2007, I joined the HD Centre’s mediation team in the Central African Republic (CAR) where I worked to prepare the All-Inclusive political dialogue. This set into motion the signature of three peace agreements between the different armed groups and the govern- ment of the CAR.
What inspired you to join the HD Centre ? First, I hate all forms of conflict and, after several years of analysing and observing conflicts and post-conflict situations, I felt the need to have a more active take on helping to resolve violent crises. Secondly, I wanted to help but without taking sides. And thirdly, diplomacy has always attracted me and working with the HD Centre is a bit like operating as a (private) diplomat with more freedom of action as you are not defending national interest but with no diplomatic passport and immunity !
25 Operational highlights Annual report 2011
Africa 2011 – The challenge of change
A referendum in South Sudan support discussions on social and In Somalia, the HD Centre held con- started a significant year for Africa cultural rights in both states, the HD sultations with political leaders to try and ultimately resulted in the inde- Centre, in partnership with the Vance to improve the situation between pendence of South Sudan. Center for Human Rights in New the Transitional Federal Govern- York, also commissioned papers ment (TFG) and regional authorities During the first part of the year, the to explore the issues and provided in Puntland and Somaliland. The HD HD Centre continued to support the expertise from South Africa and Centre organised informal meetings implementation of the 2005 Com- Norway to advise the Popular Con- between officials from the TFG and prehensive Peace Agreement in sultations process on these points. Puntland which have resulted in Sudan by providing advice on the improved relations between them. Popular Consultations process in The HD Centre’s work in Sudan In a year of drought in the country, the Blue Nile and Southern Kordo- also involved trying to establish a the HD Centre also convened a fan States. Citizen’s Hearings were broader dialogue process among meeting between representatives successfully carried out in the Blue Sudanese politicians and opinion of United Nations agencies and Nile State in January and February formers on their visions for Sudan’s international and Somali Civil Society 2011 and resulted in almost 70,000 future. Two visits to Sudan’s capi- Organisations in order to discuss oral and written submissions. The tal, Khartoum, as well as a small humanitarian access and propose HD Centre subsequently provided panel meeting were undertaken to steps which could be taken to ad- advice on managing the information identify opportunities for initiating dress the situation. which had been collected as well a broader dialogue to address the as assisting the preparations for, management of Sudanese society Towards the end of the year, the and facilitation of, a retreat for the which is diverse and fragmented. approaching Presidential elections Popular Consultations Preparatory However, the secession of South contributed to an increase in ten- Committee in Southern Kordofan. Sudan halted this process and the sions in Liberia. Having been in- This retreat included consideration HD Centre is currently exploring volved in a two year preparatory of issues such as power-sharing as further opportunities to engage in process in the country, the HD well as social and cultural rights. To political dialogue in Sudan. Centre sent a high level facilitator
26 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
and a small team to complement During 2011, the HD Centre also also carried out an assessment of the efforts of the United Nations carried out assessments in two threats to peace and security in the Mission in Liberia and the Eco- areas of concern in Africa ; one Sahel region with a particular focus nomic Community of West African national and one regional. At the on Mali, Niger and Mauritania. This States’ Special Envoy which aimed national level, an assessment of included visits to countries in the to encourage the parties to engage the situation in Burundi focussed area with the aim of establishing in peaceful elections. In its work in on the potential for political dia- contacts with, among others, Gov- Liberia, the HD Centre drew on the logue between the Government ernment officials and representa- strengths of Liberian civil society of Burundi and opposition parties tives from Tuareg communities, as including elders, the Mano River in order to prevent a resurgence well as identifying potential national Women’s Peace Network and the of armed rebellion in the country. and international partners. At the Liberian Council of Churches, as The HD Centre visited Bujumbura end of 2011, the HD Centre initiated well as a very productive collabora- and assessed the potential for a a project to reduce the threats to tion with the Election Coordination dialogue process through discus- peace in the Sahel. Committee, a civil society umbrella sions with many of those involved. organisation. At the regional level, the HD Centre
Promoting peaceful elections in Liberia
Having already established relationships with political representatives in Liberia prior to the Presidential elections in the country in October 2011, the HD Centre partnered with key actors in Liberia including the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) and the Economic Commu- Reconciling of the Ballots – Antoinette Tubman Stadium Voting nity of West African States (ECOWAS) to reduce Precinct, 11 October 2011. tensions arising from the election process. arose from the aftermath of this violence. The To complement official activities being under- HD Centre also successfully lobbied with UNMIL taken by UNMIL, the ECOWAS Special Envoy and ECOWAS for the establishment of an inde- and the Liberian National Elections Commis- pendent investigation into the deadly use of force. sion, the HD Centre undertook discreet dialogue with the five main political parties and their The HD Centre’s greatest accomplishment dur- presidential candidates in order to encourage ing the process was to assist in the establishment peaceful conduct during the elections. of one-to-one talks between the political leaders of both parties involved in the run-off elections However, political tensions escalated following and to encourage the parties to consider ways to the first round of elections and violence erupted accommodate each other’s views. In November during an opposition rally which called on sup- 2011, the parties agreed to talks about an inclusive porters to boycott the run-off elections. The process in the formation of the government. HD Centre worked with UNMIL and ECOWAS The negotiations continue as the President is among others to address a range of issues that establishing her Government.
27 Operational highlights Annual report 2011
an ouTsiDe PersPeCTive on The hD CenTre Interview with Ambassador Ellen Margrethe LØj special representative of the un secretary-General for liberia from 2008 – 2012
What was the nature of your collaboration What was the HD Centre doing specifically with the HD Centre (HD) during the Liberian to assist you in Liberia ? elections in 2011 ? The HD representatives had numerous discreet and The United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) had, by confidential contacts with the Liberian political actors the UN Security Council, been given a mandate to “sup- throughout the process thus assisting in ensuring that port Liberian institutions and political parties in creating the process moved forward. an atmosphere conducive to the conduct of peaceful elections.” Thus, in implementing this mandate, UNMIL What were the most significant changes and and I worked closely with HD representatives as well as impact you saw as a result of the HD Centre’s ECOWAS and other external actors to ensure that we involvement in the process ? were all working towards the ultimate goal – free, fair Firstly the trust the political actors showed the HD and peaceful elections. This outstanding co-operation representative and secondly the possibility to address contributed greatly to the achievement of the mandate concerns expressed early in the process – by HD, of the Security Council. UNMIL or others involved.
How did your partnership with the What more could be done to improve HD Centre come about ? the local situation ? During bilateral discussions between the Mission and Hopefully the ambiguities in the present Constitution HD representatives we quickly realised that HD could in relation to the electoral process will have been dealt make a valuable contribution to the process. HD’s in- with before the next elections. Furthermore, the process volvement, as an independent and impartial mediator showed that the dissemination of thorough information with thorough knowledge of the Liberian political scene about how elections technically are organised has to be and actors, could supplement – and enhance – the intensified – not only to the electorate at large but also activities and discussions undertaken by the Mission. the political actors.
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The hD CenTre’s faCes Presenting the HD Centre through its staff
Where are you based ? The HD Centre’s Africa Regional Office in Nairobi.
What is your role at the HD Centre ? I am a Project Officer.
What does this involve on a day-to-day basis ? There is no typical day at the HD Centre, it is very dynamic. It very much depends on looking at the bigger picture… what is most urgent, what would Beatrice Nzovu-Ouma have the greatest impact. On a given day, I could be working on a number of things including writing reports, preparing proposals and budgets, liaising with project and development partners, attending meetings, reviewing docu- ments and making logistical arrangements for upcoming activities. It also involves frequent communication and consultation with colleagues, advisers and consultants.
What is your previous experience in peacemaking ? I have been involved in facilitating inter-community mediation in Kenya be- tween warring communities, which, although they were happening at the local level, were being politicised and had the potential to exacerbate conflict at a national level. I have also been a trainer on mediation as one of the tools for conflict transformation.
What inspired you to join the HD Centre ? I was inspired by former colleagues at ACCORD to join the HD Centre. Both ACCORD and the HD Centre are involved in a project to strengthen the African Union’s mediation capacity. Friends that have previously in- teracted with the HD Centre spoke highly of the organisation. Their take was that, within the peace field, it is one of the organisations that is pro- fessional in its undertakings, and ‘gets the job done’ within the given timeframe. I was also inspired by some of the HD Centre publications that I had an opportunity to read.
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Asia Progress in southeast asia
2011 was an important year for of Sulu. To foster community-level five of these mediation processes peacemaking in the Philippines as dialogue and mediation activities, resulted in the resolution of the dis- talks resumed on two major peace the HD Centre supports two local pute. The HD Centre also supports processes involving the national initiatives in these areas : the Mind- the work of a group of volunteers Government. Negotiations restarted anao Think Tank and the Tumikang who are focused on preventing between the Government and the Sama-Sama. The Mindanao Think violence relating to elections and Communist Party of the Philippines, Tank (MTT) works to gather the they conducted twelve community the National Democratic Front and views of local people on the peace events in the Mindanao province on the New People’s Army as well as process between the MILF and issues related to violence. between the Philippine Govern- the national Government and feed ment and the Moro Islamic Libera- these views into the ongoing nego- The HD Centre also undertook other tion Front (MILF). The HD Centre is tiations. The HD Centre supports activities at a national level in Asia involved in both peace processes the work of the MTT and, in 2011, in 2011, including building trust be- and continues to co-ordinate the In- this included holding workshops tween the Government of Laos and ternational Contact Group linked to and initiating a radio programme. representatives from the Hmong the MILF talks and to liaise with the community. This involved facilitating official Malaysian facilitator. In Sulu, the HD Centre supports the first visit of Hmong representa- the mediation work of the Tumikang tives from diaspora groups to Laos. The HD Centre also undertakes Sama-Sama (TSS) to resolve clan Hmong representatives came from wider peacemaking work in the disputes which are a serious cause the United States and France for a Mindanao province of the Philip- of conflict on the island. In 2011, the ten-day visit which the HD Centre pines and, particularly, the island TSS mediated ten clan conflicts and hopes will be followed by a reciprocal
30 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
visit by representatives from the munities as well as the way they its capacity to resolve conflict in Government of Laos. are viewed by populations around the region. In 2011, the HD Cen- them. The HD Centre has already tre helped to develop ideas for an At a regional level, the HD Centre gained agreement from affected ASEAN Institute for Peace and followed up an assessment of the regional Governments to undertake Reconciliation, and also arranged situation of the Rohingya popula- an initial meeting in 2012 which will for an ASEAN delegation to under- tion in the Middle East and Asia focus on identifying ways to stabi- take a study tour to Switzerland with a project to develop a regional lise the population. to encourage the sharing of good dialogue initiative on the issue. practice in humanitarian affairs and The HD Centre commissioned a In addition, the HD Centre worked conflict resolution. report which outlined the location with the Association of Southeast and structure of Rohingya com- Asian Nations (ASEAN) to develop
Visit of Hmong representatives to Laos Hmong representatives visit Laos
Tensions have existed between the Government As part of the project, the HD Centre proposed of Laos and the indigenous Hmong community the idea that Hmong representatives from the di- for decades and the HD Centre has been work- aspora could undertake a formal visit to Laos in ing for three years to build trust between the two order to meet officials from the Lao Government sides. While many Hmong live in Laos, the end of and demonstrate commitment to the process. This the CIA’s “Secret War” in Laos in 1975 triggered required the HD Centre to engage representatives a mass exodus from Laos of primarily ethnic- from the Government of Laos in discussions in Hmong. The biggest Hmong diaspora is now in order to gain approval for the visit, as well as to the United States followed by European countries negotiate with Hmong leaders in the United States and Australia, and this geographical spread posed and Europe to gain their agreement to visit Laos as a particular challenge for the HD Centre in terms representatives of the Hmong community. of drawing the wider Hmong diaspora into discus- sions with the Lao Government. The visit took place in 2011 and was a landmark event in terms of the impact it has had on relations During the project, the HD Centre has under- between the Hmong community and the Lao Gov- taken discussions with factions within the Hmong ernment. Those involved in the visit agreed that it community in the United States and Europe in or- had increased the levels of trust between them and der to foster common ground between them and the HD Centre hopes that representatives from the to encourage them as well as the Lao Government Lao Government will consider a reciprocal visit to to consider re-defining their mutual relations. Hmong communities in the United States in 2012.
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an ouTsiDe PersPeCTive on The hD CenTre Interview with Mr Paul Herr head of the lao hmong overseas Committee
What is the nature of your collaboration What are the most significant changes with the HD Centre ? you’ve seen as a result of the HD Centre’s The nature of my collaboration with the HD Centre work in your area ? is to achieve a common goal of building bridges be- Because of the HD Centre’s work and long-term com- tween Hmong Overseas and the Laotian government mitment, it was able to facilitate the first ever official as well as the reintegration of Hmong that are still visitation of Hmong Diaspora members to Laos. During hiding in the jungles and those repatriated from Thai- that trip, the delegates were able to meet with ten land into Lao society. An additional goal is to promote Ministries to learn about policies of the Lao govern- peace and stability in Laos through economic, cultural ment regarding ethnic minority affairs, ambitions and and political development. challenges therein, education, healthcare, capacity building, trade, development, culture, gender. Both How did you become involved with sides expressed interest in co-operating in the future the HD Centre ? implementing concrete activities in these areas. This I was first contacted by an HD representative. The mis- first step was a huge success in building mutual trust sion of the HD Centre is aligned with my own personal and respect for both sides. Without the HD Centre’s motivation, which is to work for friendship, trust and leadership and assistance an engagement like this mutual respect between all residents of Laos and Lao- would not have taken place. Hmong overseas towards ultimate reconciliation. That is why I happily became involved in the HD Centre’s What more could be done to improve work. the local situation ? The continuation of the HD Centre’s work is needed What is the HD Centre doing to help and essential towards continuing building relations the situation in your area ? and moving towards the implementation of tangible Working discreetly and behind the scenes, the HD projects in Laos. This move towards Laos will be key Centre designed strategies and opened communica- to achieving the goals of HD Centre and the Hmong tion channels with the Hmong Diaspora and the Lao Diaspora in terms of building bridges, reconciliation government. It created an environment allowing for and reintegration of Hmong into Lao society, through constructive discussions between the two sides. building upon the successes achieved to date includ- ing the visitation to Laos by the Lao Hmong Overseas Committee.
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The hD CenTre’s faCes Presenting the HD Centre through its staff
Where are you based ? I am based in Bangkok, Thailand, where the HD Centre has a satellite office.
What is your role at the HD Centre ? My role at the HD Centre is to participate in all aspects of mediation opera- tions – two confidential projects in particular – and support other HD Centre activities such as the Women at the Peace Table programme.
What does this involve on a day-to-day basis ? On a day-to-day basis, my role involves working with the teams on strategis- ing on how to move forward the dialogue processes as well as assessing Theerada Suphaphong the situations and developments related to the projects. The tasks include liaising with interlocutors, arranging meetings, monitoring the situations and progress of related reconciliation mechanisms as well as translating relevant materials written in Thai into English. I also need to keep up with events in the region as the HD Centre is also engaged in Myanmar and Laos.
What is your previous experience in peacemaking ? My previous experience in peacemaking is from my work as an assistant for members of Parliament and researcher for Parliamentary Committees on Political Development and People’s Participation. This involved provid- ing a venue for conflict resolution on political and social issues, hearing from relevant stakeholders and finding solutions based on inclusiveness and consensus.
What inspired you to join the HD Centre ? The courage and uniqueness of the organisation’s human resources ; their expertise in mediation, understanding of the fluidity of situations, and creative approaches in finding ways and means to encourage stakeholders to take part in resolving conflicts.
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MeDiaTion suPPorT ProGraMMe Improving mediation practice to improve the chances of peace
More effective mediators and Liberia and the Philippines on a di- Envoy in efforts to diffuse tensions peace processes have more verse range of policy areas including around the Liberian Presidential chance of achieving sustainable electoral systems, power-sharing elections. peace. The HD Centre is therefore arrangements and the inclusion of committed to building the capac- civil society in peace processes. The programme has also identified ity of all professional mediators African countries which have a sig- – whether they work for the HD The HD Centre also has institu- nificant peacemaking role and has Centre or other organisations and tional experience of supporting the initiated consultations with the Ken- institutions. mediation efforts of others – for yan and Tanzanian Governments on example, in 2011 the HD Centre, as methods to increase their capacity The HD Centre’s support and a member of the International Con- to support peace processes as part policy programme provides an in- tact Group, supported the peace of the greater African peace and house source of expertise for the process between the Government security architecture. In Kenya, the organisation’s own operational pro- of the Republic of the Philippines HD Centre hopes this work will also jects, while also working to share and the Moro Islamic Liberation increase the Government’s capacity knowledge with, and build capacity Front. To help organisations develop to resolve internal conflicts in the within, other organisations and the ways to more effectively support country. wider mediation profession. their own mediators, the HD Centre has been working with the African One of the most important ways in Within the HD Centre, the support Union (AU) and the Economic which the HD Centre contributes to and policy programme acts as a Community of West African States strengthening the field of mediation repository of information and analy- (ECOWAS) to develop their internal is the Oslo forum series of retreats. sis gained from the organisation’s mediation and mediation support The HD Centre co-hosts the Oslo mediation experience which the HD functions in order to increase their forum series with the Royal Nor- Centre draws on to enhance the ef- effectiveness in mediating African wegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in fectiveness of its work. In 2011, for disputes. In 2011, this included order to encourage the sharing of example, the programme provided finalising a set of Standard Oper- knowledge and experience across advice to many HD Centre project ating Procedures for the AU and the mediation profession. These teams including those in Libya, supporting the ECOWAS Special events gather mediators and peace
34 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights process actors at global and region- The HD Centre has also taken the diation profession, the programme al retreats to discuss the latest chal- opportunity to share policy ideas on also produces publications. In 2011, lenges they face in their work. The a range of pertinent subjects with the HD Centre produced the third HD Centre is also an active member audiences at events in Canada, publication in the Mediation Practice of the Mediation Supporters Net- Belgium, the United Kingdom and Series on “Negotiating Ceasefires” work which regularly brings together Switzerland during the course of and initiated French translations of organisations working to improve 2011, including a presentation at the the series in order to make them mediation support and, at its June London School of Economics on more widely accessible. meeting, the HD Centre presented justice and peacemaking. To enable views on the links between media- the HD Centre to make its ideas tion and development actors. available to the whole of the me-
Increasing regional capacity to resolve conflicts
Conflicts, even where they are confined to specific countries, often have a significant impact on the surrounding region and the HD Centre under- stands the important role of regional organisa- tions in resolving them.
In Africa, the HD Centre has been working with regional organisations such as the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for over four years
to develop their peacemaking capacity. The AU AU publication produced with the support of the HD Centre launched an initiative to improve its capacity to support mediation in 2009 and its strategy was the organisation supported the mediation work outlined in an AU Plan for Action. As part of of the ECOWAS Special Envoy in Liberia. the AU-Partnership framework, the HD Centre leads on strengthening the AU’s ability to In Asia, the HD Centre has been helping the As- manage its institutional knowledge effectively sociation of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to help ensure future mediation processes ben- to establish an ASEAN Institute for Peace and Rec- efit from the lessons of the past. In realising the onciliation (AIPR). In 2011, the HD Centre con- Plan for Action, the HD Centre has developed vened a series of brainstorming sessions involving Standard Operating Procedures for Media- regional experts and officials to generate ideas on tion Support which have been adopted by the a suitable structure and mandate for the AIPR. In AU Commissioner for Peace and Security. In addition, these sessions helped provide a platform 2011, the HD Centre also drafted a knowledge for consultation between ASEAN officials and the management framework which will enable the region’s existing network of civil society organi- AU to keep a complete record of its mediation sations involved in peacemaking. The ideas and efforts. Currently, the HD Centre is working suggestions generated at these workshops were on a handbook on thematic issues relevant to channelled into official ASEAN discussions on mediators in Africa to be distributed to the AU’s establishing the AIPR. In the course of the year, staff and Special Envoys. The HD Centre is also the HD Centre also arranged a study tour for a contributing to efforts by ECOWAS to establish senior delegation from ASEAN to the offices of a Mediation Facilitation Division and, in 2011, international organisations in Geneva.
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The oslo foruM series Perspectives on a year of revolution
In an eventful year dominated by news of the sweeping changes in the Middle East and North Africa, the Oslo forum series provided some timely opportunities for mediators to reflect on fast-changing events. The series also allowed for reflection on the growing role of technology – and the social media in particular – on the pattern of conflict, and on the role of mediation and peacemaking in general.
The global retreat in Oslo in June and the regional retreat in Zanzibar, 1 Tanzania in November both featured discussions on the evolving situa- tion in the Middle East and North range of speakers including high- One of the aims of the Oslo forum Africa, focusing on the uprisings level mediators and stakeholders in series is to offer mediators and and the emerging new situation peace processes. The global retreat peace process actors the oppor- in June and on events in Libya in attracted participants from all conti- tunity to collectively discuss best November. At both retreats, partici- nents and was opened by the Nor- practice across the mediation pro- pants also discussed opportunities wegian Minister of Foreign Affairs, fession. At the global retreat, the for peacemaking and conflict reso- Jonas Gahr Støre. At the Africa Me- popular “reality check” sessions lution in other contexts. diators’ Retreat, participants were returned for a second year and welcomed by Zanzibar’s Second included discussions on evaluat- The retreats, which were co-hosted Vice President, Ambassador Seif Ali ing success in mediation as well as by the HD Centre and the Royal Iddi. The event was held in partner- considering assumptions around Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Af- ship with the Mwalimu Nyerere gender and mediation. Participants fairs, drew together an impressive Foundation. were also offered situation reports
36 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
2 3
“There is nothing like it : a forum that brings the world’s peacemakers together in one place.”
Dr Katia Papagianni, Head, Mediation Support Programme, HD Centre
on the Sahel region as well as on on inclusive peace, both retreats Southern Thailand. also included sessions on the role of civil society in peace processes. In Zanzibar, participants discussed the possibility of partnerships to The Oslo forum series also aims to promote peace in West Africa and provide participants with a vital op- the African Peace and Security portunity for bilateral discussions Architecture, as well as situation and networking, in order to enhance reports on Liberia and Burundi. participants’ own peacemaking ef- There was a heated debate on forts. The Oslo forum team was the situation in Libya and the way delighted to hear that some projects 4 ahead for the country and the role were initiated, and some acceler- of the international community in ated, as a result of contacts made this country’s future. The situations during the Oslo forum and Africa in Sudan and South Sudan as well Mediators’ Retreat in 2011. In ad- 1. Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Minister of as in Somalia were also examined. dition, the Oslo forum series aims Foreign Affairs of Norway, and Ambassador Staffan de Mistura, Special Representative to ensure that participants reflect of the United Nations Secretary-General in As well as topical sessions on a variety of perspectives and a Afghanistan, during the high level opening geographical areas of international gender balance. Following efforts plenary of the Oslo forum global retreat, 21 June 2011. concern such as Côte d’Ivoire, the to increase the number of women 2. Ambassador Salim Ahmed Salim, Chair- Middle East and North Africa, Su- attending the Oslo forum retreats, man of the Mwalimu Nyerere Foundation dan and Afghanistan, the global re- a new record was set at the Africa and former Secretary-General of the OAU during the high level opening plenary of the treat also included a session on the Mediators’ Retreat as 40 % of the Africa Mediators’ Retreat, 23 Nov. 2011. global issue of combating organised mediators and peace process ac- 3. Dr Michael Vatikiotis, HD Centre Regional crime in countries coming out of tors who attended were women. Director for Asia, Mr Jonathan Cohen, Director of Programmes at Conciliation conflict. Similar thematic sessions Resources, and Dr Kun A. Namkung, Inde- at the Africa retreat considered pendent Scholar, Oslo forum, June 2011. continent-wide concerns such as 4. Ms Sanam Naraghi-Anderlini, Senior Gen- der, Peace and Security Adviser, United the impact of land and water dis- Nations Mediation Standby Team, Oslo putes. To reflect the increasing focus forum, June 2011.
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an ouTsiDe PersPeCTive on The hD CenTre Interview with Ms Ngozi Amu Conflict Prevention and Mediation officer Political affairs unit – Conflict Prevention and Mediation – united nations office to the african union (unoau)
What is your role in peacemaking and mediation ? What inspired you to accept the invitation to I am part of a new UN office based in Addis Ababa. participate in the retreats ? Had you heard about I work on conflict prevention and mediation. My role the Oslo forum series before ? is to work with the AU to strengthen its collabora- I had not heard about the Oslo forum before I first tion with the UN on peacemaking. A big part of this attended in 2006, when I was a Political Affairs Officer is about institutional capacity-building and supporting in the UN Office for West Africa. I felt very privileged to the AU’s efforts to develop its mediation capacity in benefit from the rich discussions. co-operation with African sub-regional organisations. HD [the HD Centre] is the only organisation to have A key project involves improving collaboration between been able to create such an event for mediation prac- the AU and the UN when they are working together on titioners, where they can meet and speak in a relaxed similar mediation processes, such as making sure that way about their work. This is especially important for each organisation consults with the other on its plans young people who are looking to learn from experi- and actions. enced mediators. You normally never have time to talk Another important focus of my work in the coming year about the big ‘mediation’ picture. HD has developed will be on gender and mediation, in particular looking at a reputation for bringing mediators together and I ways to ensure that the rights of women and girls are commend it for this. HD has also been on the cutting taken into consideration during peace processes. edge in addressing gender issues in peacemaking. Among the sessions I attended in 2006 was one fo- Which Oslo forum retreats have you cusing on gender and mediation. The purpose of the attended and when did they take place ? session was to bring women mediators together to I attended two retreats in Oslo, one in 2006 and another begin thinking about this issue. I was very impressed in 2010. I also attended the latest Africa Mediators’ at the time with the importance placed by the forum Retreat in Zanzibar in November 2011. on gender.
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Ambassador Seif Ali Iddi, Second Vice President of Zanzibar, addresses the audience during the opening plenary of the Africa Mediators’ Retreat in Zanzibar, 23 November 2011.
“HD is the only organisation to have been able to create such an event for mediation practitioners, where they can meet and speak in a relaxed way about their work.”
Which of the retreat sessions did you How has attending the Oslo forum series find most useful and why ? helped you in your work as a peacemaker ? During the last retreat, in Zanzibar, I was particularly Attending the retreats is particularly useful to under- interested in the session on Libya. Having myself stand the work and challenges of mediators and how worked in support of the UN’s mediation effort in best to support them. When we listen to the media- Libya, it was particularly interesting to hear a frank ex- tors during the sessions, it is clear that not everyone change between UN and AU senior officials involved in can become a mediator, and that it requires specific that process. The session represented an opportunity skills. Putting together the right mediation support to talk about Libya in an informal setting, and the team can make a big difference. Attending the Oslo account given by all sides was an honest one. forum series also helped me get a better sense of Generally speaking, the Zanzibar retreat included a what it takes to make a mediation process successful. nice combination of comprehensive sessions on the large mediation processes, and smaller sessions, for example on Burundi. While the sessions on large me- diation processes tended to focus on the hard facts, the smaller sessions provided a more personal pic- ture of the situation in a given country. These are very important because conflicts are often triggered by a myriad of circumstances that can only be understood through close examination of a society.
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woMen aT The PeaCe Table Enhancing peacemaking through women’s experience and expertise
The HD Centre’s work on gender communicating the experiences, Dialogue and Reconciliation”). This and mediation is based on the expertise and recommendations for aimed to move the debate on from firm belief that inclusive processes mediators to the wider peacemak- a discussion of how many women – which seek to reconcile socie- ing community through a series of are present at peace negotiations ties in conflict, as well as specific publications. Two opinion pieces to considering the impact their warring parties – foster greater on gender issues in peacemaking presence may have. prospects for sustainable peace. were produced in 2011. The first Women, therefore, should have a considered UN SCR 1325 itself The HD Centre also published a significant presence in negotiating (“United Nations Security Council detailed study of the roles of women processes if peace agreements are 1325 and Peace Negotiations and in peacemaking in Asia for peace- to be successfully implemented Agreements”), while the second of- making practitioners (“Peacemaking across society. fered practical ideas to mediators in Asia and the Pacific – Women’s for including gender considerations participation, perspectives, priori- The need to involve a greater num- in peace agreement texts (“G is for ties”). The report captured not only ber of women in peace processes Gendered : taking the mystery out women’s experiences of peace- has already been highlighted by of gendering peace agreements”). making in the region but also offered United Nations Security Council recommendations for mediators Resolution 1325 (UN SCR 1325), As part of the African activities of based on them. This report is now and the HD Centre’s “Women at the programme, a strategic refer- available in Bahasa Indonesia, Taga- the Peace Table” programme is ence group was established to log and Thai. At a national level, the dedicated to promoting the in- provide a formal mechanism for HD Centre continued to support the volvement of women, and the referring women with mediation development of Indonesia’s National consideration of gender issues, experience to peace processes on Action Plan on UN SCR 1325 to in peace processes across Africa the continent. A publication reflect- increase the involvement of women and Asia. ing on the experiences of women in peacemaking. during the Kenya National Dia- Following regional roundtable logue and Reconciliation process Mainstreaming of gender concerns meetings of female mediators and was also published in March 2011 was also achieved across a range negotiators on both continents in (“Beyond the numbers – Women’s of HD Centre projects. For exam- 2010, in 2011 the focus shifted to participation in the Kenya National ple, the HD Centre, in collaboration
40 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
with four Asian-based civil society involved, and gender issues are dialogue process within Libya’s organisations, published three re- considered, in its own operational social norms. The end of the ports which offered perspectives peacemaking projects. As an ex- year also saw the start of a gen- on conflict management across In- ample, the HD Centre, with other der mentoring pilot project within dia, Indonesia and the Philippines. members of the International Con- the Asia Office of the HD Centre As part of the ‘Comparative Per- tact Group, successfully advocat- in which six members of staff will spectives on Peacemaking in Asia’ ed for the inclusion of women as be mentored by three external project, these reports included a advisors in the Moro Islamic Liber- gender experts to increase un- detailed focus on good practice ation Front’s panel for negotiating derstanding of how gender issues in terms of the participation of peace in the Philippines. In 2011, can be included in their work. women in peacemaking. the HD Centre’s Libyan project also made careful arrangements The HD Centre is conscious of the to ensure that women could travel need to ensure that women are to, and participate in, an inclusive
Indonesia’s national plan on gender, peace and security policy
The HD Centre’s first “Women at the Peace Table” roundtable meeting in Indonesia on 24 – 25 An Indonesian woman casts a ballot at a polling station in Jakarta, March 2010 had a particularly significant effect. Indonesia, Thursday, 9 April 2009, during parliamentary elections. As a result of the meeting, a representative from Indonesia’s State Ministry for Women Empower- share her experiences. Participants at the meet- ment and Child Protection (KNPP&PA) asked ing noted that this was a valuable, comparable the HD Centre to contribute to the process of perspective from the region. developing the Indonesian National Action Plan (NAP) on UN Security Council Resolution 1325 With the revisions near completion, in 2011 the which aims to enhance the roles of women in emphasis shifted to garnering support for the peace processes. NAP among Indonesian ministries. The plan was presented at an inter-ministerial meeting in The Indonesian Government had been devel- February. A decision was subsequently taken to oping the NAP, with the support of the United re-name the plan as the NAP on Prevention, Pro- Nations (UN) Population Fund and UN Women, tection and Empowerment of Women in Conflict since 2007. In 2010, three meetings convened Areas and to pass it as a higher level Presidential by the HD Centre in Indonesia as part of the Decree in order to make it easier to monitor its “Women at the Peace Table” programme in- implementation across all government minis- cluded a review of the draft NAP. Drawing on tries. In December 2011, the HD Centre also its international network, the HD Centre also held a meeting in co-operation with KNPP&PA enabled a woman from the Philippines, who to support women from conflict-affected areas in had been involved in the development of her planning the implementation of the NAP in their own country’s NAP, to attend a meeting and areas. The NAP is likely to be launched in 2012.
41 Operational highlights Annual report 2011
MereDiTh PresTon McGhie Women on the frontline of peace
How did you become involved in mediation ? Do you think the gender of the mediator has an I first became involved in mediation as a result of human influence on the mediation process ? And, if so, rights work I was doing with indigenous communities how do you think it might influence the process ? in Asia, when I worked with the Naga leadership from Gender has an influence on how you are able to de- North East India, who were in the process of talks with velop relationships and how you are perceived, so it the Indian Government at the time. From there I became definitely has an impact on a mediator. I found this involved in Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegra- manifested itself in part in how I was able to speak tion (DDR) elements of peace processes, particularly to the parties – there is a different dynamic with a issues relating to gender and disability, before joining the woman and this can be used to the advantage of the HD Centre. process, as you can build trust and confidence in a different way. What do you consider your most significant experiences as a mediator ? How do you think the incorporation I was privileged to work on the Kenya National Dialogue of gender issues in peacemaking processes and Reconciliation process under H.E. Kofi Annan. I could be improved ? think this was one of my most significant experiences One of the great challenges to improving gender as it was both a unique process and an incredible aspects of peace processes is working to identify opportunity to learn from such a strategic and experi- bespoke advice for each mediation so that gendered enced mediator. The high profile nature of the process advice is directly and specifically relevant to the par- also highlighted to me how successful mediation can ticular circumstances and issues on the table – and be when there is a broad unity of purpose among all then to ensure that advice is being heeded at the the key powerful players with an interest in the out- highest levels. So often, gender advice is viewed as come. I have since been involved as a lead mediator in too general, when women – or gender advisors – are a smaller confidential process, which was particularly not privy to the full range of issues and dynamics on significant in allowing me to directly lead a mediation the table in the room. For this to change, mediators process, which had a largely security focus – this was themselves need to take a lead in bringing women to challenging as a woman, however having extensive the table, but, similarly, parties need to be pressured experience in a given situation and with the actors was from all corners to take these issues seriously. Often important in compensating for any potential prejudice a mediator can push the issue, but if the parties are that may have occurred as a result of my gender. both resistant, this can pose a challenge – particu- Ultimately, I don’t believe that my being a woman larly if the mediator is a “weak” mediator with limited necessarily hindered my ability to lead the process. leverage over the parties. Other actors influencing a
42 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
Meredith Preston McGhie
different way to men around the table. The role, for example, of Graça Machel in the Kenya process, as a woman who had a voice of moral authority in the pro- “… there is a different cess was hugely important. That said, there are also hurdles to be overcome to be taken seriously as a dynamic with a woman lead mediator as a woman, particularly when security issues are the overriding focus of the talks. and this can be used to Are there any lessons you’ve learned which you the advantage of the process, could pass on to other female mediators ? In that regard, knowledge of the players, of the politics as you can build trust and of the situation cannot be undervalued in its im- portance in getting you to be accepted by the parties and confidence in to a process – whether you are a man or a woman. If you are viewed as someone who can be trusted by a different way.” both parties, and that can deliver, these are the most critical elements, and can in some cases therefore overcome gender prejudices. Often the prejudices come not just from the parties but from other actors around the process, and not only towards women process – including western governments – have a participating in different forms as mediators, advisers large role to play in pressing for these issues to be etc., but primarily towards inclusion of gender issues taken seriously. that will have a longer term impact on the ground on the women and men affected by a given conflict. This What were the biggest challenges is where we must focus so much of our efforts for you faced as a female mediator ? change in this area. From a very personal standpoint, juggling pregnancy and childbirth in the midst of a process was hugely challenging ! Attitudes towards me as a woman in me- diation processes have been mixed. In some cases I have seen how important it is to be a woman in such circumstances in terms of your ability to speak in a
43 Operational highlights Annual report 2011
huManiTarian MeDiaTion ProGraMMe Addressing humanitarian problems on two continents
In 2011, the HD Centre’s humani- independence for South Sudan, In addition to its work in Sudan tarian mediation programme fo- the HD Centre also convened a and with the Rohingya people, cused on two distinct humanitarian roundtable meeting with humani- the HD Centre’s programme con- problems in Africa and Asia. tarian agency representatives at vened a confidential humanitarian its headquarters in Geneva to dis- dialogue process in Asia in 2011 In Africa, the HD Centre continued cuss the developing situation in at the request of the UN. This has its work to complement the offi- South Sudan. facilitated talks between the con- cial African Union/United Nations cerned parties on issues relating (AU/UN) mediation process and In Asia, the HD Centre initiated a to the protection of civilians and reduce the humanitarian impact new project to address the plight humanitarian access to areas not of the conflict in Darfur by organis- of the indigenous Rohingya popu- controlled by the Government. ing workshops with Arab nomadic lation in the region. Many Rohingya groups as well as one of the main people live in Myanmar’s Northern In Geneva, the humanitarian media- opposition movements. The work- Rakhine State but there are also tion programme has also begun to shop with the Liberty and Justice communities in Bangladesh, India, provide a discreet venue for dia- Movement (LJM) focused on the Pakistan, Thailand, Malaysia, In- logue with concerned Governments humanitarian and human rights donesia and China, most of whom and agencies on some of the press- aspects of the peace agreement have arrived by boat in recent ing humanitarian issues in current for Darfur which, at that time, years. Ensuring the long-term sta- conflict areas. The HD Centre plans was being negotiated by the AU/ bility of the Rohingya population to continue this dialogue process UN mediators in the Qatari capi- and solutions for their situation in 2012 by identifying concerns tal of Doha. The LJM later signed requires a regional response and around the humanitarian response the agreement. The HD Centre the HD Centre, which has sig- to conflicts and offering a platform also initiated a series of work- nificant operational experience in for sharing views and discussing shops with Arab nomadic groups Asia through its Singapore office, possible new approaches. from all three of Darfur’s regions. has established initial contacts The workshops identified poten- with regional governments and will tial United Nations projects which convene its first multi-government could have a beneficial impact on discussion on the Rohingya people nomadic communities. Following in early 2012. the referendum which resulted in
44 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
Humanitarian mediation workshop for North Darfur’s Nomads Peace and Development Network, El Fasher, Darfur , September 2011.
an ouTsiDe PersPeCTive on The hD CenTre Interview with Mr Oriano Micaletti officer in Charge humanitarian, Protection strategy Coordination Division (hPs) united nations/african union Mission in Darfur (unaMiD)
What is the nature of your collaboration What are the most significant changes with the HD Centre ? you’ve seen as a result of the HD Centre’s We are supporting CHD (the Centre for Humanitarian work in your area ? Dialogue) in the on-going dialogue and reconciliation There is more interest in the Humanitarian Community process with nomadic communities in Darfur. about nomadic communities and for the first time “assistance” to nomadic communities has been listed How did you become involved with the HD Centre ? in the Humanitarian Work Plan for 2011 – 2012. Initially supporting CHD in liaising with the movements in Jebel Mara and in an attempt to expand humanitarian What more could be done to improve space subsequently we extended our support to CHD the local situation ? in the dialogue process with the nomadic communities. To further support the dialogue process, allocating funds for projects involving the nomadic communities. What is the HD Centre doing to help the situation in your area ? CHD is helping in reaching out to a segment of the Darfurian population (20 %), which has been partially neglected by the Humanitarian Community and has had limited access to humanitarian assistance.
45 Operational highlights Annual report 2011
The hD CenTre’s faCes Presenting the HD Centre through its staff
Where are you based ? In the HD Centre’s office in Manila, Philippines.
What is your role at the HD Centre ? I serve as the Mediation Advisor for the HD Centre’s mediation projects and oversee the programme in the Philippines.
What does this involve on a day-to-day basis ? I am primarily engaged in the peace talks between the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine Government as a member of David Gorman the International Contact Group. I also advise on one of our confidential projects and a few of our projects in Southeast Asia. In 2011, I spent a good deal of time in Libya initiating a project on fostering dialogue among Libyans. When I am back here in the Philippines, I oversee the clan me- diation work in Sulu, a solidarity initiative between the MILF and the Moro National Liberation Front, and our Mindanao Think Tank. Fortunately, we have a fantastic team of people in the Philippines that is really the engine behind the work there.
What is your previous experience in peacemaking ? I started my career in this line of work in 1993 with Search for Common Ground in Washington D.C. I then worked in the Occupied Palestinian Territories for three years on several peacemaking projects including local talks in Jerusalem between Palestinians and Israelis. For a change of scenery, I went to Liberia for two years and Bosnia for a year working on various peacebuilding and emergency relief initiatives with Oxfam GB. I joined the HD Centre in August 2000 and went immediately to Aceh were I spent most of the next four years on the peace process.
What inspired you to join the HD Centre ? I liked the ‘humanitarian’ approach to dialogue. I thought it was a good entry point for initiating dialogue with armed groups. But, more importantly, it helps me, and I hope the parties, stay grounded on what this is all about – addressing the causes of the conflict, so we can improve the conditions of the people. Unfortunately, the parties, and even us sometimes, can lose focus on this.
46 Annual report 2011 Operational highlights
A selection of the HD Centre’s 2011 publications
Armed violence Issues Gender Conflict resolution reduction in mediation and mediation analysis and prevention
Can mediation UN Security Council Conflict Management Sihnag 2010 Review transform societies ? 1325 and Peace Nego- in Indonesia – An overview of the activities of By Dr Katia Papagianni tiations and Agreements An Analysis of the the Armed Violence Reduction Opinion Piece by Christine Bell Conflicts in Maluku, Initiative Mediation Practice and Catherine O’Rourke Papua and Poso Series : Negotiating By the HD Centre in Preventing Election Ceasefires Beyond the numbers – partnership with the Indonesian Related Violence By Luc Chounet-Cambas Women’s Participation Institute of Sciences and A report on the activities of in the Kenya National Current Asia (also published the Preventing Election Related Meeting Report – Dialogue and Reconci- in Bahasa Indonesia) Violence initiative by the Oslo forum 2011 liation HD Centre and the Australian By the HD Centre By Meredith Preston McGhie Conflict resolution : Agency for International and E. Njoki Wamai Learning lessons from Development dialogue processes Peacemaking in in India Asia and the Pacific : By the HD Centre and Women’s participation, the Delhi Policy Group perspectives, priorities By the HD Centre Armed Violence in Mindanao : Militia and G is for Gendered : private armies taking the mystery out By the HD Centre and of gendering peace the Institute of Bangsamoro agreements Studies Opinion Piece by Antonia Potter
47
Finances & Governance Finances & Governance Annual report 2011
Funding & Finances
The HD Centre is funded by a without the key institutional support In 2011, the HD Centre also re- range of donors providing direct offered by Norway, Switzerland, ceived critical backing from private project as well as institutional Sweden and the Netherlands, the sources including new income support. This income allows the HD Centre would not be as effec- from Steve Killelea, Humanity Unit- HD Centre to operate in a flexible tive in its work. Long term, sustain- ed and the Rockefellers Brothers manner and respond to crises as able and, as much as possible, Fund, which was used to help start they develop, looking ahead to predictable income ensures the HD up important new activities. These issues on the horizon and provid- Centre is able to pursue its work donors joined other private actors ing support to others working in through to fruition. These donors such as George Soros, his Open the mediation field. This breadth have also contributed significant Society Institute, the MacArthur of support ensures that the HD funding to programmes. Foundation, AECOM and the 3rd Centre is able to maintain its inde- Millennium Foundation, in recog- pendence and to manage risks in The European Union (EU) funded nising and supporting the role the all of its operations. work on two programmes in South HD Centre is able to take in helping East Asia, agreed to fund a wide to achieve peaceful ends through In 2011, overall income grew to CHF ranging programme in Libya for dialogue. 16,411,802. With an important in- 2012, and contributed towards crease in activities planned in 2012, the HD Centre’s assessments. The As an organisation focused on along with careful development of Governments of Australia, Belgium, operations and based in Geneva, resources and capacity, income is Canada, Denmark, Germany, Liech- it is particularly relevant to the HD anticipated to rise this year. tenstein, Singapore, the United Centre that its role in the world Kingdom and the United States is recognised locally. Support The HD Centre is keen to build on provided discrete regional and received in 2011 from the City, the existing relationships with its programme funding contributing to through its loan of the Villa Plan- main donors and to broaden and direct activities, and their results, in tamour as the HD Centre’s head- deepen its financial support. While some of the world’s most complex quarters, and from the Canton of the HD Centre is very grateful to situations and concerns. Geneva, for one of its key Asia- all of its donors, it recognises that based projects, was most valuable
50 Annual report 2011 Finances & Governance
The HD Centre is funded by a range of donors allowing it to operate in a flexible manner and to respond to crises as they develop. CHF 20 M
18 M
16 M
14 M
12 M
10 M
8 M
6 M
4 M
2 M
0 M YEAR 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 and helps confirm the HD Centre’s butions to help it take calculated The HD Centre’s total expenses in place in the City of Peace and the risks and develop effective pro- 2011 amounted to CHF 16,271,158 centre of international humanitar- grammes. The HD Centre is also compared to CHF 16,977,559 in ian affairs, rights and peace which planning activities that will need 2010. The slight decrease is the Geneva has become. further funding for which the HD result of efficiency measures taken Centre is seeking support and during 2011. In the near future, the HD Centre where the results of dialogue have will seek increased private contri- great potential to bring peace.
51 Finances & Governance Annual report 2011
The hD CenTre’s GoverninG boDy Experience across the Board
In 2011, the HD Centre welcomed three new members to its Board :
Jermyn Brooks Ambassador Raymond Loretan Dr Ghassan Salamé
Chairman of the Audit Ambassador Loretan is a former Dr Ghassan Salamé is the Dean of and Finance Committee Swiss Ambassador and Diplomatic the Paris School of International Af- Mr Brooks is the former Executive Secretary to the Swiss Secretary of fairs and Professor of International Director and Chief Financial Officer State for Foreign Affairs, as well as Relations at Sciences Po in Paris of the anti-corruption civil society a founding partner of the consulting (1986 –). Dr Salamé was a Senior organisation Transparency Inter- firm Fasel Balet Loretan Associés. Advisor to the United Nations Sec- national. He was on Transparency Ambassador Loretan also worked retary-General from 2003 to 2006, International’s Board of Directors as personal adviser to the Minister and Political Advisor to the United from 2003 to 2006 and was elected of Defence and of Justice and Po- Nations Mission in Iraq in 2003. again for three years in 2011. His lice. He was Ambassador of Swit- From 2000 – 2003, he was Leba- main focus is supporting the or- zerland in Singapore and Consul non’s Minister of Culture, as well ganisation’s work to improve corpo- General in New York. Ambassador as Chairman and Spokesman of rate transparency and integrity. Mr Loretan is also Chairman of the the Organisation Committee for the Brooks also chairs the Board of the Board of both the SRG SSR (the Arab Summit (March 2002) and of Global Network Initiative and was Swiss broadcasting corporation or- the Francophone Summit (October the former worldwide Chairman of ganisation) and the Genolier Swiss 2002) in Beirut. Price Waterhouse, taking a key role Medical Network Group, as well as He presently sits on the Board of in the merger negotiations which a member of the Board of several various organisations including the resulted in the company becoming other companies. In addition, he is International Crisis Group. He is the PricewaterhouseCoopers in 1998. a former Secretary-General of the chairman of the Arab Fund for Arts In addition to being a member of the Swiss Christian Democratic Party. and Culture. HD Centre Board, Mr Brooks is the Chairman of the Audit and Finance Committee which reviews the finan- cial management of the organisa- tion on behalf of the Board.
52 Annual report 2011 Finances & Governance
These three new members will add to the experience already established within the HD Centre Board. The other continuing HD Centre Board members are :
Jean-Marie Guéhenno Ambassador Jenö Staehelin Vidar Helgesen
Chairman of the HD Centre Board Vice Chairman of the Board Chairman of the Operations Mr Guéhenno temporarily stepped Since March 2012, Ambassador Committee down from his positions as Chair- Staehelin has become the Acting Secretary-General of the Interna- man and member of the HD Centre Chairman in the temporary absence tional Institute for Democracy and Board in late March 2012 following of Mr Jean-Marie Guéhenno. Electoral Assistance – IDEA (2006 his appointment as Deputy Joint to present) ; Norway Deputy Minister Special Envoy of the United Nations Former Swiss Ambassador to Japan of Foreign Affairs (2001 – 2005) ; and the League of Arab States on (1993 – 1997) and to the United Special Adviser to the President of Syria. Nations in New York (1997 – 2004), the International Federation of Red and former Chairman of the Board Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Arnold Saltzman Professor of Profes- of UNICEF (2003) ; Head of Europe Geneva (1998 – 2001). Mr Helgesen sional Practice at Columbia Univer- and North America Division, Swiss holds a law degree from the Uni- sity and non-resident Senior Fellow Ministry of Foreign Affairs (1986 – versity of Oslo and has practised as at the Brookings Institution ; Former 1993) ; Member of the International an Attorney-at-Law. In addition to French diplomat ; United Nations’ Committee of the Red Cross (2006 being a member of the HD Centre Under-Secretary-General for Peace- to present) ; Member of the Board Board, Mr Helgesen is the Chair- keeping Operations (2000 – 2008) ; of Schindler Holding AG and of the man of the Operations Committee Member of the Cour des Comptes, Kofi Annan Foundation. which assists the Board in supervis- Paris (1976 – 2000) ; Chairman of ing the conduct of the HD Centre’s the Institut des hautes études de operations. défense nationale (1998 – 2000).
53 Finances & Governance Annual report 2011
The HD Centre’s Honorary President Since 2010, the HD Centre has also been honoured to have Dr Javier Solana as its Honorary President. Dr Solana is the former Secretary-General of the Council of the European Union and of the Western European Union (1999 – 2009) ; Former Secretary General of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation – NATO (1995 – 1999), and a former Spanish Foreign Minister.
Karin Jestin Irene Khan Olivier Steimer
Head of the philanthropy practice Director-General of the International Chairman of the Board of the Banque at Lombard Odier and Secretary- Development Law Organization – Cantonale Vaudoise (2002 to pre- General of Fondation Lombard IDLO (2012 to present) ; Secretary sent) ; Vice-Chairman of the Swiss Odier (2008 to present) ; Director General of Amnesty International Federal Railways ; Vice-Chairman of at FSG Social Impact Advisors (2001 – 2009) ; Worked for UNHCR the Bank Council of the Swiss Na- (2004 – 2008) ; Senior Adviser at (1980 – 2001) as Deputy Director tional Bank ; Member of the Board the International Federation of Red (International Protection), Chief of of ACE Ltd ; ETH, economiesuisse Cross and Red Crescent Societies Mission in India, Head of UNHCR and Avenir Suisse ; Chairman of the (2000 – 2004), and previously con- team in Former Yugoslav Republic Foundation Board of the Swiss Fi- sultant with McKinsey & Company ; of Macedonia during the Kosovo nance Institute. Member of the Board of Swiss- crisis, and Senior Executive Officer Foundations, Fondation Philanthro- to High Commissioner Sadako pia and other non profit groups. Ogata. Ms Khan has taught, lectured and published on human rights, gender and development issues.
The HD Centre would also like to thank two members who left the HD Centre Board in 2011, Ms Bineta Diop and Mr Gerard Walzer, for their contributions to the development of the organisation.
54 Design and layout : Nicolas Ducret, www.nicolasducret.com Printing : Atar Roto Press SA, www.atar.ch
Photo credits : Page 14 : Lars Solberg Page 16 – 17 : UN/Jean-Marc Ferré Page 23 : 212 Group Page 27 : Xav C. Hagen Page 35 : HD Centre/African Union Page 41 : AP Photo/Tatan Syuflana Page 43 : Clément Rousset/Studio Contraste Page 45 : UNAMID/Olivier Chassot Page 52 : Photo of Mr Jermyn Brooks – Transparency International Page 52 : Photo of Amb. Raymond Loretan – Olivier Maire Page 53 : Photo of Mr Vidar Helgesen – Andrea Liebman/International IDEA Page 53 : Photo of Amb. Jenö Staehelin – Clément Rousset/Studio Contraste Page 53: Photo of Mr Jean-Marie Guéhenno – Lars Solberg Page 54 : Photos of Karin Jestin and Olivier Steimer – Clément Rousset/Studio Contraste Page 54 : Photo of Irene Khan – REUTERS/Tim Wimborne Page 54 : Photo of Javier Solana – PANOS/Tim Dirven Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland 114, Rue de Lausanne CH – 1202 Geneva Switzerland Telephone +41 ( 0 )22 908 11 30 Fax +41 ( 0 )22 908 11 40 Email : [email protected]
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