Sectoral approaches derive from strategic frameworks developed by national governments and donors at the macro level. The strategic and sectoral levels are interdependent and conflict sensitivity needs to be integrated at both the national (macro-strategic) level and at the sector level. But note that the sequencing of activities at the different levels is unlikely to be linear and may vary considerably depending on the country circumstances. Conflict sensitivity also needs to be considered in relation to the partnership environment within which sectoral approaches operate, again at both national and sector levels.

Nor can conflict-sensitive sectoral approaches be achieved by the actions of one group in isolation; members of all concerned groups (national governments, donors, civil society, INGOs, implementing agencies) should contribute to the understanding of what a conflict-sensitive approach requires, and all have a role to play in its implementation.