A vibrant civil society is crucial in times of crisis, both for providing emergency services and building social cohesion while doing so, writes Inna Topal from International Alert in Ukraine.

Conflict monitoring (Conflict Alert) and resource use management planning (RUMP) are among the core programming priorities of International Alert Philippines. The programme has contributed to the promotion of inclusive governance and evidence-based programming and policy-making in Mindanao, the Bangsamoro, and parts of Luzon in the last decade.

International Alert Tunisia launches an awareness campaign 'Health is a constitutional right: yes to an increase in the public health budget.'

In Kyrgyzstan, we have been supporting an initiative to open public debate on the role of religion and democracy in the country.

In post-civil war Nepal, the COVID-19 pandemic could reverse some of the gains made by the recent political settlement and federal system reforms.

The Bekaa Dialogue Group has been working to improve relations between communities and supported people to raise their concerns around access to resources, employment and services, discuss tensions and develop ways to prevent violence.

The merger of the Department for International Development (DFID) with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) presents risks but also potential opportunities for the UK’s contribution to reducing conflict and supporting peace overseas.

In Africa as elsewhere around the world, security forces have been accused of using excessive force to impose COVID-19 lockdown measures, spreading fear and mistrust. This is how they play a more positive role, especially in countries already dealing with conflict.

Gender is key to ensuring responses to COVID-19 tackle the crisis and build long-term peace.