Guidance note on Conflict Analysis in support of EU external action

Conflict is an important part of social and political change. Violent conflict is a problem that the EU is committed to addressing (see annex for listing of extensive policy commitments in this area).

The purpose of this note is to set-out how conflict analysis can assist EEAS and Commission staff working in fragile and/or conflict-affected countries. Conflict analysis contributes to making an informed choice in articulating a comprehensive approach to the EU's objective of preserving peace, preventing conflict and strengthening international security across a wide range of mechanisms and tools, including public and quiet diplomacy, (high level) political dialogue, policy dialogue, trade negotiations, external assistance2, mediation, CSDP missions and other interventions.  

This guidance note has been developed jointly by the EEAS and Commission services.