The analysis of the information gathered for conflict-sensitive monitoring and evaluation will require some attempt at discerning causal linkages, despite the difficulties.

Although there is no established framework for analysing conflict sensitive information, two stages may help in the analytical process:

• find the most effective way to structure the information, in order to reduce the complexity of the data and, more importantly, to understand key linkages between the project and the context. For example, the grids or tools which most conflict analysis frameworks use to simplify the analytical process are sometimes also appropriate for conflict-sensitive monitoring and evaluation.

• further prioritise and deepen the linkages identified through triangulation. For example, in Central Azerbaijan, interviews with project beneficiaries in one village revealed that they were upset about the unequal distribution of benefits between them and the neighbouring village. Discussion with the implementation organisation showed that the benefits provided to both villages were identical. Rather than discount the disgruntled village perspective as incorrect, it is better to understand the community’s perceptions about unequal benefit distribution, particularly in the light of contradicting objective information, as revealing an important issue for further investigation, monitoring, and possibly action.