Planning has been defined as the process whereby certain problems are identified, their causal linkages analysed, and effective solutions developed, which can be implemented as a project or programme with objectives, activities and indicators. Conflict-sensitive planning brings in an additional ingredient – conflict analysis of the actors, causes, profile and dynamics in a given context – with the aim of ensuring that the project or programme does not inadvertently increase the likelihood of violent conflict, but rather serves to reduce potential or existing violent conflict.

Conflict-sensitive planning is called for in contexts involving all points along the conflict spectrum (from structural violence to violent conflict), regardless of whether the project or programme is for humanitarian aid, peacebuilding, or development; or whether the intention is to address conflict directly or simply to avoid indirectly exacerbating tensions. (See the Introduction to the Resource Pack for more information on the conflict spectrum). Conflict-sensitive planning is built on the elements identified during the conflict analysis in relation to profile, causes, actors and dynamics, and situates project planning within this analysis (see Chapter 2 for more information on conflict analysis).

Conflict-sensitive planning relates to both interventions that are defined through the conflict analysis, and to sensitising pre-defined interventions. A careful project strategy, taking account of each of these elements, can be the key to just and peaceful outcomes and more durable solutions. Because every activity is part of the conflict dynamic, whether focussed in, on or around a particular conflict, conflict sensitivity is relevant to projects and programmes that directly address conflict as well as those which seek simply to avoid indirectly exacerbating it. Thus, the conflict analysis needs to be integrated into the overall plan, and updated regularly. The overall plan can then be modified if necessary to reflect changes in the analysis.

Planning in a conflict-sensitive fashion is explored in more detail in section 3 below. Understanding the context involves taking the context (ie building on the conflict analysis triangle developed in Chapter 2), and situating the intervention within it.