# EUR-Lex - 52012SC0225 - EN

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# 52012SC0225

**COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT Accompanying the document REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS 2011 Annual Report on the Instrument for Stability /* SWD/2012/0225 final */**

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Trans-regional actions in the
areas of organised crime, trafficking, protection of critical infrastructure,
threats to public health and the fight against terrorism (Article 4.1 IfS
Regulation, priority 2) 4

Actions in the area of risk
mitigation and preparedness relating to chemical, biological, radiological and
nuclear (CBRN) materials and agents  (Article 4.2 IfS Regulation) 11

Crisis Preparedness (Article
4.3 IfS Regulation) 16

Instrument for Stability, 2011
Overview of commitments, contracts and payments  Article 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3

Instrument for Stability:
Overview 2011 commitments and payments. 22

IfS crisis response and
preparedness 2011 decisions and commitments, status of contracts and
disbursements. 23

IfS crisis response and
preparedness 2009 decisions and commitments, status of contracts and
disbursements. 25

IfS crisis response and
preparedness 2008 decisions and commitments, status of contracts and
disbursements. 26

IfS crisis response and
preparedness 2007 decisions and commitments, status of contracts and
disbursements. 27

IfS long-term component: 2011
commitments and payments by country, region and projects  28

IfS long-term component: 2010
commitments and payments by country, region and projects  29

IfS long-term component: 2009
commitments and payments by country, region and projects  30

IfS long-term component: 2008
commitments and payments by country, region and projects  31

IfS long-term component: 2007
commitments and payments by country, region and projects  32

IfS crisis preparedness: status
and description of individual projects. 33

COMMISSION
STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT

Accompanying the document

REPORT FROM THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION
TO THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL
COMMITTEE AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS

2011 Annual Report on the
Instrument for Stability

Instrument for
Stability Article 4.1 & 4.2
Building capacity to address specific global and transregional threats

Progress reports

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)

Trans-regional actions in the
areas of organised crime, trafficking, protection of critical infrastructure,
threats to public health and the fight against terrorism (Article 4.1 IfS
Regulation, priority 2)

Title of IfS Decisions || Annual Action Programmes for Article 4.1 IfS (priority 2) adopted in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011

Type of measure || Trans-regional actions in the areas of organised crime, trafficking, protection of critical infrastructure, threats to public health and the fight against terrorism

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || AAP 2007 on 17/12/2007; AAP 2008 on 10/11/2008; AAP 2009 on 25/09/2009; AAP 2010 on 15/12/2010, AAP 2011 on 27/09/2011

Amount(s) || Committed: EUR 88,293,377; Contracted: EUR 59,092,310; Paid: EUR 24,601,304

1 Fighting organised crime on the cocaine route Illicit drug trafficking, one of the major activities of organised crime worldwide, profits from insufficient international cooperation, regulatory inconsistencies, political obstacles and lack of governance over the global financial markets. Cocaine trafficking from Latin America via the Caribbean towards West Africa and on to Europe, for example, is facilitated by the lack of regional and interregional cooperation. Illicit trafficking in drugs is closely connected with other forms of organised crime. Cocaine trafficking across these regions is complemented by high volumes of illicit financial flows which are instrumental to the concealment, laundering and investment of the proceeds of crime. A specific programme has been designed to support the fight against organised crime on the cocaine trafficking routes. The "Supporting the fight against organised crime on the cocaine route" programme addresses all regions along the routes from Latin America to Europe, with a special focus on West Africa, where the threat has appeared more recently and the gap in capacity is high. It encompasses the trans-regional dimension by creating cooperation links between West Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean. The aim of the programme is to strengthen the capacity for international cooperation between the law enforcement, prosecution and judicial authorities of the regions concerned. The programme was launched under the 2009 Annual Action Programme and all of its components were confirmed and extended in the 2010 and 2011 Annual Action Plan andcurrently consists of six components, with the aim to link them up progressively, thus contributing to create trans-regional synergies to tackle organised crime on the cocaine route. Activities in more than 40 countries with a total budget of 19 million EUR are contributing to the following components / objectives: To strengthen the anti-drug capacities at selected airports ("Airport Communication Programme" – commonly called AIRCOP I and II); Meanwhile, implementation activities have been ongoing since early 2010 for the Airport Communication Project (AIRCOP), involving international airports in West Africa and Brazil and including work for the Establishment of Joint Airport Interdiction Task Forces (JAITF) and for their connection with international law enforcement databases and communication networks. Within the Airport Communication Project, the preparation of a very successful operation named COCAIR took place in 22 airports and resulted in considerable seizures of drugs, precursors, arms, capital and artworks. In Latin American and Caribbean countries a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ameripol and the National Police Directorates was signed and a MoU with the Ibero-American Association of Public Ministeries. To strengthen cooperation in contrasting maritime trafficking in West Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean ("Seaport Cooperation Project" –SEACOP I and II); Under the project activities were continued to be implemented in 2011, with a total contribution of EUR 2,999,180, for the support for the capacity of law enforcement, judicial and prosecuting authorities of Latin American and Caribbean countries. The first two Joint Airport Interdiction Task forces were inaugurated in Cape Verde and Senegal and the first trainings took place for the Joint Maritime Control Units in Cape Verde, Ghana and Senegal. To contribute to strengthen cooperation of law enforcement, judicial and prosecuting authorities of Latin America and Caribbean countries and the EU in tackling transregional organised crime ("AMERIPOL I and II"); Under the AMERIPOL project, with a contribution of EUR3.5 million (decided in 2009 and 2010), activities taking place during 2011 that should be mentioned is the signature of the MoU by the Police authorities building the operational foundations of the National Ameripol Units (NAU) and commitments from the signatories to provide technical and human resources, and the signature of the Prosecutors’ MoU on implementation of training and capacity building for prosecutors. Furthermore gap analysis were finalized for Colombia, Bolivia, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Panama, Martinique, Venezuela, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago and Argentina. To support the fight against money laundering and financial crime in (1) Latin America and Caribbean countries ("GAFISUD I and II") and in (2) West Africa ("AML WA"). During 2011 support continued efforts were made in the fight against money laundering in Latin America and the Caribbean project, with a total contribution of EUR 1,897,500. For this last project, the Financial Action Task Force of South America against Money Laundering (GAFISUD) acts as implementing partner. The global objective of the project is to improve the coordinated action carried out by the GAFISUD countries to fight organized crime, i.a. covering asset laundering investigation, strengthening administrative and judicial cooperation, and law enforcement and fostering cooperation lines to fight asset laundering and formalizing agreements with countries and/or regional groups defined as the priority (GAFIC, GIABA). During 2011 Interpol carried out a study on the feasibilitty of creating a regional police information system to fight (organized) crime (including money laundering) and threats from terrorism which should facilitate the collection, centralization, management, sharing and analysis of police information on a national level in the 15 ECOWAS countries & Mauritania; To contribute to the fight against the drug manufacture and trafficking by assisting the LAC region against the diversion of precursors from the licit trade (PRELAC II). Several workshops held in 2011 attended by chemical substances and precursors control authorities and representatives of the chemical operators with the objective of confidence building between the different parties and promote dialogue as well as information exchange To strengthen the transregional coordination, coherence and complementary effect among the various projects contained in the Cocaine Route Programme ("CORMS"). In 2011 the contract with the objective to strengthen the transregional coordination, coherence and complementary effect among the various projects contained in the Cocaine Route Programme ("CORMS"). was signed and mobilised. 2 Fighting organised crime on the heroin route The "Fight against trafficking and organised crime on the heroin route" programme was set up to fight illicit trafficking to and from Afghanistan along the heroin trafficking routes. Traffickers take advantage of the lack of regional cooperation and weak law enforcement capacity. The same organised crime networks are suspected to be involved in the trafficking of human beings to the EU. Dealing with trafficking along the heroin routes therefore goes hand in hand with fighting organised crime in the Caucasus, the Black Sea Basin and the Western Balkans. A first major project to support the fight against trafficking to and from Afghanistan was launched in 2009. It focused on law enforcement cooperation between Central Asian countries, with a strong emphasis on Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iran, and involved the ten countries of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO). In 2011 progress on the programme included ongoing implementation activities for the project identified in the Annual Action Programme 2008 and identification studies for the Annual Action Programme 2011. The project Fight against trafficking from/to Afghanistan has a budget of EUR 9.5 million and is structured in five components involving different partner organizations. Each component has further advanced in 2011: · Global Secure Communication System are being set in place for exchange of information and intelligence. This accompanied by capacity building and sharing of best practice in Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan; · For "Developing a network of border control cooperation units at land/air/sea ports of entry for container control to stem the flow of drugs, precursors and other illegal trafficking", training programmes were prepared and a training handbook printed in English. Translation into Russian is in progress and translation into Dari and Pashtu is foreseen. Following the ports needs assessments that were conducted 5 Container Control Units (1 in Iran, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan and 2 in Azerbaijan) will be setup and a Container Communication system installed. A detailed action plan was created and the trainings started in 2011; · A new contribution agreeement was signed with UNODC with the objective to strengthen the container control capacity of the countries and facilitate legal trade using the experience and lessons learned in the global CCP, to develop national and regional capacity to gather, collect and analyze essential data of trafficking of heroin in specialized border control units established in seaports and dry ports, to develop a functioning cooperation network in the area of specialized container profiling units in the Black Sea and Caspian Sea region (Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine and possibly Turkey and Russia). For the Annual Action Plan 2011 two preparatory study were carried out for identifying actions one on providing support for the fight against organised crime in general along the heroin routes in the Black Sea Basin and, ultimately, in the Western Balkans region, the other one specifically on trafficking in human beings. 3 Fight against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons Small arms proliferation fuels and sustains conflicts, illicit trafficking, gang violence and urban criminality. The Instrument for Stability contributes to international efforts to fight the proliferation, accumulation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons. In 2011, the European Union continued to promote the issue of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in all multilateral fora and in political dialogue with third countries. The EU has also addressed the destabilising effects of the proliferation and trafficking of SALW, firearms and explosive materials through continuing implementation of concrete projects with a trans-regional dimension. In Central America, the EU continued supporting the Central American Small and Light Weapons Control Programme (CASAC), implemented by the Central American Integration System (SICA) under the umbrella of UNDP, in its efforts to fight the illicit trafficking of firearms and explosive materials in Central America and neighbouring countries. The project is implemented by UNDP; it has a budget of EUR 1 million and ended December 2011. The project pursued a double goal: 1) improve the security situation in the region and 2) contribute to the process of regional integration in line with the main objective of the EC’s Regional Strategy Paper on Central America 2007-2013. The contribution of the EU project to the CASAC initiative has shown so far a positive impact on establishing the foundation of a regional structure and long-term strategy to fight the illegal trafficking of arms in the region contributing to building knowledge, raising awareness, and and contributing to the Central American Security Strategy which was adopted in Guatemala on April 8, 2011. Preparations were made to sub delegate CASAC to the Nicaragua Delegation , allowing for a better coherence with other EU supported actions under the regional stratgey and ensuring close monitoring of this IFS long term action by the Delegation and to have a new agreement signed beginning 2012 (CASAC II). In Africa, the EU continued supporting the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), located in Nairobi, in the fight against illicit accumulation and trafficking of firearms and explosive materials within the framework of the Africa-EU strategic partnership. The project implemented by RECSA has a budget of EUR 3.3 million and was foreseen by the Annual Action programme 2008. During 2011 it gained pace after having concluded a long consultation process by inter alia.: establishing National Focal Points (NFPs) and National Actions Plans (NAPs); having organised a first meeting of the Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organizations (RPCOs) sd; working on towards a strenghtened capacity and cooperation between national law enforcement agencies (police, border guards and customs) within and among countries. The project aims at complementing efforts at national and sub-regional levels, whilst taking into account specificities and needs in each region. Despite the encountered delays, the impact prospects of the project are positive. The project has shown a high degree of dynamism through consolidation of the regional priorities to the project activities and through alignment of priorities to the project’s expected results and rearrangement of the activities, to be implemented over the next two years. Both programmes emphasize strengthening coordination at regional and sub-regional levels, in line with the activities of the regional organisations (SICA resp. RECSA). The initiative implemented by UNODC (EUR 2.3 million) in countries in Central and West Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean affected by illegal trafficking in firearms and ammunition made a start in 2011. The initiative promotes the implementation of international agreements against the illicit manufacture and trafficking of small arms and light weapons, in combination with capacity building for law enforcement agencies in Latin America, the Caribbean and West Africa. The main activities include the adoption of an adequate institutional and legislative framework at national and regional level, capacity-building and training for development of required skills and capacities of actors involved in firearms control matters, assistance to States in improving their capacity to gather and analyze relevant information related to firearms and generate reliable empirical information and evidence on illicit trafficking in firearms and ammunition; The development of a stolen and lost firearms database by Interpol (EUR 0.7 million). made good progress during 2011. The initiative will draw information from a number of pilot countries initially and from all 188 Interpol member countries eventually. The main objectives are to create a centralized tool for tracing and tracking of stolen and lost firearms, to provide a means to identify the trafficking routes of these firearms, to enable Interpol member countries access to insert, update and query a centralized international database for lost and stolen firearms and the consolidation of separate member-country data into one database. From a complimentarity point of view, the pilot phase is being implemented in the same countries (19 countries) as under the UNODC initiative. 4 Enhancing maritime security and safety along critical maritime routes Maritime transport faces a number of multi-dimensional security issues. Piracy and armed robbery against ships are a serious and rising threat to maritime trading routes (representing by far the largest proportion of world trade by volume), humanitarian deliveries and regional stability. The "Critical Maritime Routes" programme was designed to support the fight against this particular form of organised crime by supporting the capacity of coastal states to ensure security and safety along critical maritime routes. It addresses the ‘hot spots’ of risks and threats crossed by major shipping lanes. The programme focused initially on the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, where the safety of navigation is challenged by the archipelago structure of the Straits coupled with high-intensity naval traffic and shipments of hazardous and noxious materials, by armed robbery at sea and, to a lesser extent, by piracy incidents. Taking into account the sharp deterioration of the security situation in the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden, the focus of the programme has shifted to include that area. Recently, the programme extended its reach to the Gulf of Guinea with a focus on piracy and armed robbery. The IfS has been involved in the maritime security and safety dossier since 2008 as a long-term complement to other EU programmes under the European Development Fund (EDF), EUNAVFOR operation "ATALANTA" and other broader international efforts (foremost the IMO and national initiatives). IfS has been providing related technical and general support for fighting piracy and armed robbery in the above mentioned regions. In 2011, progress on the programme included ongoing implementation activities for the projects identified in the Annual Action Programmes 2009, 2010 and 2011 and identification studies for the Annual Action Programme 2012. In the Western Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden the programme supports the implementation of the Djibouti Code of Conduct (DCoC), under the aegis of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), through a consortium of EU Member States' Experts. The DCoC provides a framework for cooperation among coastal and user states for the repression of piracy and armed robbery against ships. The project for enhancing maritime security and safety through information sharing and capacity building started in September 2010 for an initial duration of 36 months with a budget of EUR 6 million gained pace during 2011. The project provides technical assistance for the setting up of a regional training centre in Djibouti and a regional maritime information sharing centre in Yemen, the Yemen centre was officially inaugurated in March 2011 though operations were re-located temporarily to Kenya due to political unrest. Establishment of Djibouti Regional Training Centre (DRTC) remains virtual, with trainings delivered in the framework of Djibouti Code of Conduct in coordination with IMO, but physical construction of DRTC started in September 2011. Another action of the Critical Maritime Routes programme enables the national law enforcement agencies to combat maritime piracy and robbery on the high seas through effective pro-active investigations, by specifically providing them with the necessary training and equipment to conduct investigations and to identify and dismantle piracy networks and their supporters. The project, contracted in December 2010 with a budget of EUR 1.6 million and for a duration of 36 months, continued its implementation during 2011. The implementing partner is INTERPOL and the focus has been placed initially on Seychelles, Kenya, and, as far as feasible, Somalia (Somaliland and Puntland). As part of this initiative, investigations were carried out by Interpol on piracy organisers and financiers and tracking of financial flows in East Africa. In the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, the programme supports existing cooperation by contributing to better safety of navigation. The ongoing action will continue until the end of 2012 and was allocated an indicative budget of EUR 0.5 million mainly focussing on co-operation among stakeholders towards enhancing safety and marine environment protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore and specifically supports the project "Capacity Building on Hazardous and Noxious Substances Preparedness and Response". In the Gulf of Guinea, .EU Member States' Experts are currently preparing anti-piracy measures in the Gulf of Guinea. In addition to the above mentioned projects, during 2011 the pilot project on piracy, maritime awareness and risks continued its implemented by the JRC. The initial scope, focusing on selected countries in the regional around the Horn of Africa (Djibouti, Yemen, Kenya, Tanzania, Seychelles), has been extended to the Gulf of Guinea region (Nigeria, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and São Tomé e Principe). The activities include identification and assessment of technical means and practices that can be used to contribute to maritime domain awareness, chiefly by supporting gathering and sharing of information. This IFS funded pilot project and its activities remain complementary to those under the Critical Maritime Routes programme, and the final workshop in Brussels which validate the operational opportunities of this technical tool and aims to promote further dissemination in DCoC countries. 5 Capacity building in regions afflicted by terrorism The "Support for Preventing and Combating Terrorism" programme was devised under the Instrument for Stability to support capacity building in priority regions afflicted by terrorism, thereby contributing to the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Strategy and relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Particularly on counter-terrorism assistance, synergy with the Instrument for Stability crisis response component is relevant as weel for Pakistan and Sahel. Implementation activities have been ongoing for the " Support the fight against terrorism in the African continent: Strengthening the African Centre for Study and Research on Terrorism (ACSRT) and the African Union Focal Points" project with a contribution of EUR 585,000. The activities implemented by ACSRT are following a very slow pace due to the low institutional capacity of the Centre, but finally, under the impuls of the newly appointed Director, 6 out of the 12 country audit and evaluation reports were received. Several projects aim at preventing and combating terrorism, helping in implementing the UN counter-terrorism strategy by providing assistance to specific countries and regions. In 2011, a 6.7 million EUR contract for counter-terrorism in Sahel covering Mali, Mauritania and Niger has been signed and will, amongst others, setup the "Collège Sahélien de Sécurité" and improve the capacities to share information, anticipate terrorist acts and respond to terrorist acts on both operational and judicial level. A mission to Pakistan has determined the needs and definition of actions, to be implemented in the course of 2012, in improving the interface between the prosecution service and the police of the Punjab Province, in order to improve the Punjab criminal justice system as a whole in the management of terrorism cases and provision of a more reliable service to its citizens. In South East Asia the IfS engaged in a joint EU-UNODC initiative for supporting regional and national capacity to prevent and combat terrorism, in areas as strengthening investigation and prosecution services, radicalization and financing of terrorism. 6 The Expert Support Facility (ESF) Due to the highly sensitive and technical nature of IfS actions in the areas of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear risks mitigation and trans-regional threats to security, the identification of priorities and the design and implementation of programmes are most appropriately performed by experts from specialized organizations. Moreover, EU efforts in the areas of IfS will be complementary to the ongoing and planned activities of Member States. Therefore, close coordination and the participation of Member States' experts in implementing the programmes is important to ensure that synergies are maximised with the expertise available in national administrations. To this end, the Commission has established the Expert Support Facility under the IfS. The overall objective of the ESF is to contribute to the aims of the long-term component of the IfS by guaranteeing the best use of human resources in terms of identified priorities and anticipated responses, while ensuring enhanced coordination with other bilateral or multilateral donors, in particular (but not exclusively) EU Member States. Through the ESF, experts from EU Member States Agencies, Departments, Ministries and specialist public or semi-public organisations make their specific knowledge and expertise available in order to provide more effective technical assistance to beneficiaries and to support the implementation and preparation of trans-regional and multi-purpose projects and programmes. Since 2008, approximately 100 multi-disciplinary experts from 17 different EU Member States covering 60 different organisations and institutions have carried out more than 100 fact-finding visits and missions to IfS relevant regions. The Framework Contract established in 2009 with 60 organisations in EU Member States provides for a structured and efficient procedure to mobilise the experts. The current framework contract for ESF expires in September 2012. During 2011 consultations took place with Member States to discuss ways to continue mobilising EU MSs expertise beyond 2012, covering i.a. the options for reopening/reorganization of the ESF framework contract and the assessment of the which is foreseen before the end of validity of the framework contract. The outcome of this process was the agreement on the Commission moving forward with extending the ongoing framework contract with one year, until September 2013, which would allow for the conclusions of the assessment to be taken into account for the retendering of the framework contract. 7 New areas covered (cyber crime/cyber security, fight against the illicit market of falsified medicines) Two new areas were explored during 2011 for possible inclusion in the AAP 2012. Since cyber crime / cyber security is gaining importance as a cross-cutting issue within all trans-regional threats, as it abolishes distances, it ignores boundaries, and as such it facilitates and finances organized crime, the fight against cybercrime in third countries has been introduced as a new IfS priority area. In order to define EU external IfS actions foreseen for 2012, views and experiences of cyber experts in EU Member States, international organisations and US were collected at a DEVCO/EEAS led expert workshop that took place at the end of 2011. Another new priority area for which IfS actions are foreseen is the fight against the illicit market of falsified medicines which represents a growing threat to global health security, affecting massively the poorest and most vulnerable populations. The way this new area of intervention should be addressed in 2012 has been discussed in close consultation with relevant stakeholders during a DEVCO/EEAS expert workshop that took place in December 2011. Both workshops have been valuable in identifying the thematic and geographical scope of possible actions in these new areas under the IfS and identifying possible actions to be included in the 2012 Annual Action Plan.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS)

Actions in the area of risk
mitigation and preparedness relating to chemical, biological, radiological and
nuclear (CBRN) materials and agents 
(Article 4.2 IfS Regulation)

Title of IfS Decisions || Annual Action Programmes for Article 4.2 IfS adopted in 2007, 2008, 2009,2010 and 2011

Type of measure || Risk mitigation and preparedness relating to chemical, biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) materials and agents

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || AAP2007 (17/12/2007) – AAP2008 (05/12/2008), AAP2009 (30/11/2009) – AAP2010 (26/11/2010) ) – AAP2011 (04/10/2011)

Amount(s) || Committed: EUR 177000,000 Contracted: EUR 152,500,000 Paid: EUR 101,000,000

The long-term part of the Stability Instrument (Budget Headings 19.06.02.01 and 19.06.03) Priority 1 (Article 4.2) - 19.060201 - Risk mitigation and preparedness relating to chemical, biological radiological and nuclear (CBRN) materials and agents. The “Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) risk mitigation (priority 1 of the Instrument for Stability) covers risks related to accidental, natural or malevalent CBRN related risks and aims at improving the safety and security culture by spreading best practices and raising the general level of security and safety awareness and culture. On the basis of the Strategy 2007-2011 and the Indicative Programme 2009-2011 the fifth (2011) Annual Action Programme (EUR 48 million) was defined and adopted in October 2011. It provides funding for the CBRN Centres of Excellence and for thematic actions to be implemented in the framework of the "Centres of Excellence" initiative; for Border Monitoring and figth agains Illicit Traficking of RN materials ; for Export Control Supports; for the contribution to the Multilateral Nuclear Assurances – Low enriched Uranium Fuel Bank managed by IAEA and for alternative employment of former soviet weapon scientists and engineers through support to ISTC/STCU (International Science and Technology Centre in Moscow / Science and Technology Centre in Ukraine in Kiev). All activities defined in four previous (2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010) Annual Action Programmes for priority 1 were entirely contracted and are under implementation. The geographical coverage has been extended to Mediterranean Basin, Middle East, South East Asia, Central Asia, South Caucasus and Africa. The total number of involved countries newly involved is now about 40. 1 CBRN Centers of Excellence (CoE) The overall scope of the CBRN Centres of Excellence initiative is to strengthen the long-term national and regional capabilities of responsible authorities and administrative infrastructures, and develop a durable cooperation legacy in the fight against the CBRN threat. Effective response to CBRN risk depends on cooperation and coordination between all levels of government, response organisations and international partners. An effective strategy to deal with the CBRN risk management requires a very high level of co-operation and co-ordination among many different authorities within and among countries, therefore the CBRN CoE will rely on a integrated CBRN approach that incorporates all international, regional and national CBRN risk mitigation components into a common strategy. Different domains were covered separately till 2010 (e.g. export control of dual-use goods, illicit trafficking, redirection of former weapon scientists, bio-safety and bio-security culture). From 2010 onwards, the "Centres of Excellence" initiative should provide a single and integrated cooperation platform for actions in all these domains. First phase of the CoE initiative, covered from the AAP 2009 is fully implemented. The objective is the conceptualization of the Centres of Excellence intended as a network of local, regional and international, including the definition of the guidelines and tools required. The setting up of the EU CBRN Centres of Excellence (CoE) continued in 2010 and 2011, to enhance CBRN risk mitigation policies worldwide by developing tailored assistance packages based on the needs assessment developed in the concerned regions. As part of the of the second phase, the EU established CoE Secretariats in South-East Asia (Philippines), South East Europe/Southern Caucasus/Ukraine (Georgia), North Africa (Algeria), the "Atlantic façade" (Morocco) and Middle East (Jordan). The first five local CoE's Regional Secretariats became operative in late 2011. Contacts have furthermore been established with Central Asia, Gulf Cooperation Council countries and sub Saharan Africa. In parallel with the setup of the new Secretariats and the development of the key methodologies by UNICRI and JRC, 19 actions in five regions, for a total EUR 16.3 million have been selected and the implementation is scheduled to start in June 2012. They will constitute a major tool for capacity building and developing coherent regional policies and for strengthening the cooperation of national and regional capabilities in this domain. 2 Border Monitoring - fight against illicit traficking The fight against illicit trafficking of CBRN materials and deceptive financial practices is implemented with actions in Central Asia and South East Asia and North Africa. A coordination mechanism, the Border Monitoring Working Group (BMWG), has been set up between EU and US with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to better coordinate activities on border control and on improvement of capabilities of the recipient countries for analysis of seized nuclear and radioactive materials. The dedicated BMWG meets twice per year since November 2005 to share information on donors' projects and coordinate border monitoring activities. The actions planned both under the TACIS and the previous AAPs of IfS are still under implementation in various countries of Russia and Central Asia (e.g. actions to enhance the detection of radioactive and nuclear materials at identified borders crossing and/or nodal points in the Republic of Georgia, and at Southern borders of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan). From the AAP 2011 the first two actions are already in contracting phase. Their purpose is to provide mobile detection equipment and training for the Saint Petersburg – Helsinki high speed train, as well as to provide an adequate CBRN protection during UEFA football championship EURO 2012 in Ukraine and Poland, in order to enhance detection capabilities, timely analysis of data and prompt response. Based on the BMWG as well as an extension fact-finding mission in SE Asia and Democrat Republic of Congo, two additional activities are under preparation to cover these regions. The first aims to enhance the detection at border crossings and support capacity building in the selected countries in South East Asia (Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand) and involving the other countries of the ASEAN (Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, Singapore, Vietnam) in regional initiatives as workshops, seminars and training, to deploy detection and response procedures and use properly the detection equipment supplied. Together with the international partners (in particular the IAEA and the US Second line of Defence program), the establishment of a dedicated network for experience and information sharing will be supported via regional seminars, workshops, advanced training sessions etc. The second provides support the fight against illicit trafficking in the Democratic Republic of Congo by the provision of detection equipment (fix at borders and mobile for the retrieval of orphan sources), training (use of the detection equipment, methodology and national response plan) and capacity building (participation to the International Technical Working Group on Nuclear Forensics to integrate the international community in the view of experience sharing and networking). In addition, a contract has been signed with IAEA to contribute to a new Nuclear Material Laboratory to be used by IAEA Safeguards Analytical Services in Seibersdorf, Austria (EUR 5 million in 2011). 3 Cooperation in Export Control of dual use goods The EU Strategy against the proliferation of WMD articulates a clear commitment to strengthening export control polices and practices within EU borders and beyond, in co-ordination with partners. It identifies the need to set up a programme of assistance to States in need of technical knowledge in the field of export control. Outreach to third countries in the area of export control of dual-use items is one of a number of tools and policies that the EU has developed in order to combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their means of delivery. The German Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA) has been mandated by the EU Commission to implement an EU project with the aim of enhancing the effectiveness of the export control systems of third countries. While continuing to cooperate with the existing partner countries of the LTP 2008 and its predecessor programs and starting to work with new beneficiary countries, the new project has also expanded its scope. The assistance and cooperation in export control of dual-use goods activities resulted in successful programme implementations with more than 28 States around the world that will be extended and reinforced. Cooperation with the US EXBS Export Control system has been reinforced. The activities foreseen in 2011 aim at strengthening the export control systems of partner countries, with a strong link with the Regional Centres of Excellence activities, by aligning them to the standard of the international export control regimes and treaties and therefore meeting the requirements of the UNSCR 1540 (2004). One particularly important new focal point in the current project is to establish a transition from a country oriented approach towards a more regional approach, among others through interaction with the Centres of Excellence (CoE). 4 Multilateral Nuclear Assurances To support Multilateral Nuclear Assurances (MNA) initiatives, a contract has been signed with IAEA to contribute to the Low Enriched Uranium Bank for the Utilization of Nuclear Energy (EUR 20 million). The "LEU Bank", owned and managed by the IAEA, will supply countries introducing civil nuclear programmes with secure nuclear fuel, thus limiting the associated proliferation risks. As for the participant States this scheme will reduce the risks of fuel supply disruption due to the political reasons. The concept of Multilateral approaches to the nuclear fuel cycle have been envisaged for decades. An IAEA-controlled nuclear fuel bank is essential to reducing global nuclear dangers because the same enrichment technology (e.g. centrifugation) can be used to produce both low enriched uranium for nuclear power reactors and high enriched uranium for nuclear weapons. Thus, multilateral approaches to the nuclear fuel cycle, in general, and creation of nuclear fuel bank, in particular, have potential to facilitate peaceful use of nuclear energy while providing the international community with additional assurance that the sensitive parts of the nuclear fuel cycle are not unduly disseminated and consequently are less vulnerable to misuse for non-peaceful purposes. The specific objective to the IfS contribution to this project is to support, as a first step, the nuclear fuel bank option adopted by the IAEA, while ensuring compliance with basic criteria such as market compatibility, security of supply, consistence with existing international non-proliferation treaties and agreements and the absence of any negative proliferation impact. 5 Redirection of former weapon scientists Support for retraining and alternative employment of former weapon scientists and engineers with origin in countries of the former Soviet Union has continued through the dedicated STCU and ISTC centres in Kiev and Moscow. In Iraq, actions continued by engaging former weapons scientists in comprehensive activities for the decommissioning, dismantling and decontamination of nuclear facilities. The programmes under the Science Centres in Moscow and Kiev have provided a period of reasonable stability within the FSU countries to allow their governments to manage a significant change in the way WMD scientists and engineers adapted to post Soviet economic conditions. While in hindsight the proliferation threat from FSU WMD scientists absconding to work for states of concern or assisting terrorists to acquire proliferation sensitive expertise and materials was limited, the EU support for the Science Centres was instrumental in encouraging other donors to assist in scientist redirection work and develop good working relations between donors and partner countries. Without such support, Former Soviet Union countries ability to deal effectively with the challenge would have been a lot less certain. In 2011 it has been estimated by the Centres that about 3000 FWS have been engaged in peaceful research activities. On the other hand 2009 G8 summit indicated that the focus of such work is moving away from “redirection” of scientists to the “engagement” of younger scientists. Therefore, a new strategy for the redirection/engagement activities is under development. It has been agreed that the former weapon scientist redirection needs extended to the engagement of scientists that have sensitive knowledge, including younger scientist that have not necessarily been involved in WMD development. This process was also accelerated by the Decree in August 2010 announcing the withdrawal of the Russian Federation from the ISTC Agreement. During the transition process the funding of the Centres has been continuously reduced. Both Centres are being drastically restructured while the Parties (US, Canada and Japan for ISTC) are developing the new mission statement and mandate of the Centers. The results of the first evaluation of the programme results were made available in July 2010. They covered three main areas: export control of dual–use goods, combating illicit trafficking of CBRN materials, and redirection of former WMD scientists' and engineers' knowledge to peaceful activities. For reasons of coherence and completeness, this evaluation covers the period 2004-2009 as the activities under the areas evaluated started before the IfS Regulation came into force. The evaluation results were taken into consideration in the definition of the new Strategy and Indicative programme 2012-2013. A second evaluation phase has been launched in 2011.

Instrument for Stability Article 4.3
Crisis Preparedness/Peace-building Partnership

Progress report

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS)

Crisis Preparedness
(Article 4.3 IfS Regulation)

Title of IfS Decisions || Annual Action Programmes for Crisis Preparedness 2007-2011

Type of measure || Pre- and post-crisis capacity building

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || 21/12/2007, 31/03/2008, 30/06/2009, 31/03/2010 and 30/6/2011

Amount(s) || Committed: EUR 56.020.652; Contracted: EUR 45.520.652; Paid: EUR 25.882.634

The crisis preparedness component (Article 4.3) of the Instrument for Stability - also known as the Peace-building Partnership (PbP) – provides support for long-term measures aimed at fostering co-operation between the EU and a series of implementing partners. Between 2007 and 2011, 48 actions were contracted for a total of EUR 45.5 million. These actions focus on i) building the general capacity of non-state actors to respond to crises situations (46%); ii) co-operating with international organizations and regional organizations (37%); and iii) working with relevant Member State bodies on the training of police and civilian experts to participate in stabilization missions (17%). In 2011, funding built on and continued supporting clusters of activities identified in the past. The 2011 Annual Action Programme, included eight actions grouped thematically under the following components: Capacity-building of non-state actors; Natural Resources and Conflict; PCNA/PDNA; Mediation and Dialogue; Women Peace and Security; Security Sector Reform. As in previous years, the Programme foresees engagement with three categories of partners as follows: 1) civil society; 2) international and regional organisations; 3) EU Member State bodies. Examples of the results achieved by Peace-building Partnership actions during 2011 include: i) Fostering dialogue on peace building with civil society organizations: to this end, a Civil Society Dialogue Network, managed by the European Peace-building Liaison Office (EPLO)[1] for the benefit of all peace-building non-state actors, was launched in 2010 to provide input to the EU policy-makers on policy, strategic and programming aspects of the Peacebuilding Partnership, transversal thematic issues relating to peacebuilding and crisis-specific situations. Thirteen meetings were held in 2011 on peace-building related topics including conflict prevention and early warning, mediation and fragility, women, peace and security as well as country or region-specific conflicts (Mediterranean and North Africa region - MENA region, Ivory Coast). ii) Capacity building of in-country non-state actors: twelve locally managed projects involving and led by civil society organizations started activities in six countries (Bolivia, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Timor Leste Yemen, Zimbabwe) covering the following areas: mediation and dialogue, situation of fragility and conflict, women peace and security and human security. iii) Strengthening the mediation capacity of the international community: the EU supported the establishment of two positions within the Standby Team of Mediation Experts, established under the Mediation Support Unit (MSU) of the UN Department for Political Affairs: one expert on “natural resources and conflict”, the other on “mediation process design”. The mission of these experts - deployable anywhere in the word on 72-hours notice - was to quickly provide mediation expertise to mediation and peacekeeping missions led by the UN, Member States, as well as other international, regional and sub-regional organisations. During 2011, the two experts were deployed on 16 separate occasions to eight countries (Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Switzerland, Qatar and Belgium). A project targeting the root causes of the post-election violence in Kenya in 2007[2] offers another example of effective PbP work in the area of mediation. The project’s activities strengthened the capacity of non-state actors to mitigate community conflicts by improving know-how on early warning informal mediation, field-based political analysis, policy oriented conflict research and policy dialogue. Groundwork was laid in the first year of the project and the second year has been characterized by the pursuit of community dialogue at grassroots level between beneficiaries, opinion leaders and state actors applying newly-gained knowledge in peace-building and conflict transformation. Focus was placed on utilizing the primary target groups’ newly gained knowledge in peace-building and conflict transformation. Key results included the establishment of the regional peace-building networks between the CSOs, the involvement of community leaders and provincial administration and one national and three provincial policy dialogue meetings. As a further example, the 'Preventing inter-community conflicts in East Africa'[3] action yielded the following results, briefing and a roundtable on the Lou Nuer/Murle conflict in South Sudan was organised at the benefit of UN-DPKO, the EU Delegation, office of EU Special Representative for Sudan/South Sudan, Sudan Tribune newspaper, Embassy of Kenya, DFID / British Embassy, Members of Parliament, USAID; a traditional forum for resolving conflicts within the community, (NAAPO), was revitalized and a mechanism for women’s participation in the previously male-dominated mechanism was successfully established; two early-warning briefings in Kenya were delivered; tensions were reduced between Turkana and Pokot communities via a joint resolution to open the Nakwamoru-Lorokon road that had been barricaded for nine months due to a raid by Turkana warriors and raids were reduced both in number and scope in the target area. All the above projects contributed to global EU mediation efforts and helped turn the “Concept on Strengthening EU Mediation and Dialogue Capacities”[4] into concrete actions to increase and develop the EU and the international community’s capacity to mediate and negotiate settlements of armed conflicts, political crisis and other disputes. iv) Addressing the linkages between natural resources and conflict and how prudent use of natural resources may also play a role in preventing conflict and building peace: under an agreement with the UN Mediation Support Unit (MSU), experts were financed by the EU for the production of a Guidance Note on Extractive Resources and Conflict and extensive research pieces on the Nile River Basin as well as land conflicts involving indigenous populations in Chile and Panama. The experts also carried out training seminars in Brussels for EU staff on trans-boundary water-sharing issues (October 2011) and assisted DPA in the preparatory activities for national dialogues in the MENA region. v) Improving international cooperation in the field of Post-conflict and Post-Disaster Needs Assessment (PCNA-PDNA): based on the EU-UN-WB partnership on PDNAs/PCNAs, the UN Development Operations Coordination Office (UNDOCO) developed web-based tools for experts undertaking assessment missions in the wake of natural or man-made disasters. The programme also developed joint training/information programmes through which some 170 staff from partner and other multilateral organisations received introductory training, with a further 73 experts following the in-depth programme. This created a critical mass of technical experts capable of rapidly analyzing the necessary international aid responses to give to natural and/or man-made disasters, allowing the EU to better play its international role in this regard. vi) Addressing human rights in conflict contexts and in particular gender and youth issues: a full range of activities was delivered in 3 regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina under the project “Youth for Peace”[5], including the empowerment of youth organisations, the organization of training days on peace-building and community development and the construction of sport and children’s playgrounds and parks. Peace work was also included in Local Strategies for youth of 3 targeted municipalities and 5 publications were produced reaching over 5,000 project participants. The action “Political Participation of Women from Afghanistan, DR Congo and Liberia in Peace and Security Policy”[6] saw women activists in DRC involved in investigating the cases of mass rapes in Fizi perpetrated by the regular army (FARDC) in early January 2011. Subsequently, Lieutenant-Colonel Mutware Daniel Kibibi became the first FARDC commander to be sentenced by a special mobile gender court for rape crimes and similar sentences were handed down near Kalehe and Maniema. Awareness-raising on UNSCR 1325 reached more than 1000 women through public information sessions resulting in an increase in women's political participation in the areas concerned: two women took up province-level ministerial posts; another two won seats in the national parliament and in virtually all territories with activities of DYFAP members, dozens of women gained posts in local governance structures. In Afghanistan, a high-level meeting with president Karzai were held in 2011 to advocate gender-sensitive policies and women’s participation in decision-making bodies. The defeat of a government bill was secured to avoid the recognition of the decisions of informal courts (local shura), known to discriminate against women and to promote harmful practices. Furthermore the political participation of women was increased: Karzai nominated three candidate women ministers and women participated for the first time in the National Consultative Peace Jirga (334 women, 1334 men). Concerning the Jirga, the advocacy of the Afghan women’s movement succeeded in having the percentage of women increased from 12% to 20%. Moreover, the presence of nine women in the 70-strong High Peace Council overseeing the Afghanistan Peace and Reconciliation Programme was achieved and female civil society representatives participated in the 2011 Bonn Conference. Members of the Afghan Women’s Network (AWN) interviewed during the external evaluation of the project on political participation stated that the advocacy meetings in Europe (Brussels and Berlin), an activity of this project, contributed directly to this success. This action is a concrete example of how the EU has contributed to advancing the implementation of UNSCR 1325, to the empowerment of women’s networks and organisations and to women’s participation in political processes in conflict affected contexts. vii) Training civilian and police experts from EU Member States for participation in civilian stabilization missions: ENTRi (Europe’s New Training Initiative for Civilian Crisis Management), a consortium involving 13 participating EU partners was designed to strengthen the capacity, technical capability and skills of staff working in or preparing for deployment under civilian crisis management missions while simultaneously fostering interoperability and the harmonisation of partners’ approaches to training. Over its first year, the ENTRi consortium organised 17 courses (both pre-deployment and specialisations), in which 340 experts of 49 nationalities participated. 190 participants were nominated for participation by seconding institutions of EU’s Member States. Moreover, at the end of the year, a further action[7] was funded providing for future training of EU police officers for deployment in civilian crisis management operations over the coming years, while also expanding its scope to include police officers from (a) non-EU countries contributing to CSDP missions and (b) African countries. To date, the European Union has provided significant complementary support for training efforts in these areas as successful civilian crisis management and stabilisation missions rely on the availability of well-prepared individuals which in turn depends on high quality training activities custom-designed for such purposes. viii) Implementing co-operation with regional organisations on enhancing their early warning networks: an operational crisis response centre was established in 2011 at the Secretariat General of the League of Arab States (SGLAS) and an intensive training programme benefiting officials of SGLAS in crisis analysis and crisis response management is now being implemented. A platform of cooperation on the various on-going crises in the region between the EU and the SGLAS has been created. Through this and similar actions, the EU aims at strengthening regional and sub-regional organisations’ early-warning capabilities to better respond to or prevent conflict and to prepare for post-conflict and post-disaster recovery. ix) Contributing to International Dialogue on Peace Building and State Building: since 2009, the EU has supported the International Dialogue on Peace Building and State Building, established in 2008 in Accra, in response to the need for a better and more focused effort to address the challenges of conflict and fragility. In 2011, the IfS supported the work of International Dialogue on Peace Building and State Building Secretariat and that of the four Dialogue working groups, as well as the organisation of international meetings such as in Monrovia in June. The Monrovia meeting agreed on final knowledge products and discussed a draft International Action Plan that was presented in December at the 4th High-Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness in Busan. The following December, the 4th High-Level Forum on Aid Effectiveness in Busan endorsed “the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States”, a document that reflects a consensus on five Peace building and State building Goals, and commits to new ways of engaging in fragile and conflict-affected countries. More than 40 countries and organisations have signed up to the New Deal which is referred to in the Busan outcome document. New Deal implementation is currently on-going in a number of countries and is being used to inform key reforms of major multi-lateral partners, including the World Bank. x) Supporting Aid Information Management Systems for Peacebuilding: through the project “Support to Aid Information Management Systems for Peacebuilding”, implemented by the UN Peacebuilding Support Office and UNDP, the EU worked towards two objectives : a) to enhance the reliability, quality and frequency of aid reporting to ensure that a satisfactorily high level of aid flows is captured in Aid Information Management Systems (AIMS); b) to present aid data relating specifically to peacebuilding in a “peacebuilding assistance dashboard” (PAD). Liberia and Central African Republic have been selected as pilot countries following an assessment process. Two fact-finding missions took place at the end of 2011 including consultations with government counterparts, the UN System, the EU Delegations and the wider donor community. The missions produced two mission reports/project concept notes as well as enabled the drafting of two Terms of Reference for Aid Information Experts to be deployed to the field, with a view to starting operations in spring 2012. xi) Supporting conceptual and methodological aspects of designing and programming peace-building measures: support was given to an inter-agency project on peace-building design, monitoring and evaluation which included INGOS, local civil society and government agencies, in Nepal, Uganda and Democratic Republic of the Congo[8]. This project built capacity of 21 organisations by identifying the theories of change underlying their projects, and assisted them to monitor and evaluate results and impact. A cross-project and country learning paper was produced for practitioners and policy-makers. The methodology and the step-by-step process for the pilots have been turned into a “How to” Guide on ‘light touch’ techniques for designing, monitoring and evaluating peace-building projects using theories of change. This project has been a catalyst to stimulate debate amongst both practitioners and policy-makers on how to ensure that peacebuilding efforts can better demonstrate and achieve their desired results. In particular, EU support for the production of the policy debate paper and the Guide will contribute to the field of peacebuilding by offering reflection on and tools for measuring the effectiveness of peacebuilding interventions.

Instrument for
Stability, 2011
Overview of commitments, contracts and payments
Article 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3

Instrument for Stability: Overview
2011 commitments and payments

BUDGET
HEADINGS 19.06.01.01 and 19.06.07 [Art. 3 and 4.3], 19.06.02.01 [Art. 4.2] and 19.06.03
[Art. 4.1]

IfS crisis response and preparedness 2011
decisions and commitments, status of contracts and disbursements

(BUDGET
HEADING 19.06.01, ARTICLE 3 AND 4.3 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IFS crisis response and preparedness 2010
decisions and commitments, status of contracts and disbursements

(BUDGET
HEADING 19.06.01, ARTICLE 3 AND 4.3 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS crisis
response and preparedness 2009
decisions and commitments, status of contracts and disbursements

(BUDGET
HEADING 19.06.01, ARTICLE 3 AND 4.3 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS crisis
response and preparedness 2008
decisions and commitments, status of contracts and disbursements

(BUDGET
HEADING 19.06.01, ARTICLE 3 AND 4.3 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS crisis
response and preparedness 2007
decisions and commitments, status of contracts and disbursements

(BUDGET
HEADING 19.06.01, ARTICLE 3 AND 4.3 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS long-term component: 2011
commitments and payments by country, region and projects

(BUDGET
HEADINGS 19.06.02 ,19.06.03 and 19.06.07 ART. 4.2 AND 4.1 OF THE IFS
REGULATION)

IfS long-term component:
2010 commitments and payments by country, region and projects

(BUDGET
HEADINGS 19.06.02 AND 19.06.03, ART. 4.2 AND 4.1 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS long-term
component: 2009 commitments and payments by country, region and projects

(BUDGET
HEADINGS 19.06.02 AND 19.06.03, ART. 4.2 AND 4.1 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS long-term
component: 2008 commitments and payments by country, region and projects

(BUDGET HEADINGS 19.06.02 AND 19.06.03, ART. 4.2 AND 4.1 OF THE IFS
REGULATION)

IfS long-term component:
2007 commitments and payments by country, region and projects

(BUDGET
HEADINGS 19.06.02 AND 19.06.03, ART. 4.2 AND 4.1 OF THE IFS REGULATION)

IfS crisis preparedness: status and description
of individual projects

(BUDGET
HEADING 19.06.01, Art. 4.3 OF THE IFS REGULATION, the Peacebuilding Partnership)

[1]               The European Peacebuilding Liaison Office (EPLO) is a
platform of 30 NGOs, networks of NGOs and think-tanks active in the field of
peacebuilding across 14 European countries.

[2]               The action “Strengthening non-state actors'
capacities to prevent and resolve conflicts in areas affected by post election
violence in Kenya” was managed by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung e. V.

[3]               This action was managed by Minority Rights Group
International (MRG).

[4]               The Concept on Strengthening
EU Mediation and Dialogue Capacities was adopted by the Council in November 2009.

[5]               This action was managed by Care International
(municipalities involved)

[6]               Managed by the NGO Medica Mondiale e.V

[7]               The EUPST Action is managed by a specialised
consortium of national public sector bodies led by the Arma Italiana dei
Carabinieri.

[8]               This action, 'Strengthening Capacity to Design,
Monitor and Evaluate Peacebuilding Programming', was managed by Care
International.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Pakistan........................................................................................................................................ 3

Peru............................................................................................................................................. 8

Philippines.................................................................................................................................. 10

Seychelles................................................................................................................................... 13

Sri Lanka.................................................................................................................................... 15

Sudan and South Sudan.............................................................................................................. 17

Syria...... .................................................................................................................................... 19

Thailand. 21

Timor-Leste................................................................................................................................ 23

Tunisia... .................................................................................................................................... 25

Western Balkans (regional actions).............................................................................................. 29

Yemen... .................................................................................................................................... 32

Zimbabwe.................................................................................................................................. 34

COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT

Accompanying the document

REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE
AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS

2011 Annual Report on the
Instrument for Stability

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Pakistan

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support to Electoral Reforms (2) Civilian capacity building for law enforcement in Pakistan (3) Support post-crisis reconstruction and development in Pakistan's Northwest Frontier Province, Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Baluchistan (4) Early Recovery from Floods ||

Type of measure || Strengthening of democracy (1) Rule of Law/Security System Reform (2) Post-conflict Recovery, (3) Response to natural disasters (4)

Dates of Adoption of IfS Decisions || (1) 18/08/2009 (2) 18/12/2009 (3) 02/07/2010 (4) 17/12/2010

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  2,400,000 Contracted: EUR  2,387,720 Paid: EUR  2,053,903 (2) EUR  15,000,000 Contracted: EUR  15,000,000 EUR  11,500,000 (contract 2A) EUR  3,500,000 (contract 2B) Paid: EUR  10,140,595 (contract 2A) EUR  3,150,000 (contract 2B) || (3) EUR  15,000,000 Contracted: EUR  15,000,000 Paid: EUR  5,000,000 (4) EUR  18,000,000 Contracted: EUR  15,000,000 (4A) Contracted: EUR  3,000,000 (4B) Paid: EUR  10,800,000.00 (4A) EUR  990,000.00 (4B)

Start Dates of Projects || (1) 11/12/2009; (2A) 01/03/2010; (2B) 23/12/2010 (3) 02/09/2010; (4A) 01/03/2011; (4B) 1/1/2011

End Dates || (1) 10/12/2011; (2A) 29/02/2012; (2B) 22/03/2012; (3) 02/09/2012 (4A) 31/08/2012 ; (4B) 30/06/2012

Context of Instability Pakistan’s political system continues to face numerous challenges to consolidate a fledging democratic process and the implementation of the rule of law, in particular the fight against extremism and terrorism, the urgent need to enforce the credibility and effectiveness of its civilian institutions and to strengthen the justice system of the country. Although the number of violent attacks decreased by 12 % in the past year, Pakistan remains among the most volatile regions in the world. The high level of insecurity is due to local religious, political and ethnical issues compounded by a spill-over from the Afghan war and the stand-off with India on Kashmir. Insecurity is particularly acute in the Federal Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), where the army has been conducting major counter-insurgency operations displacing nearly a quarter of the four to five million population. Frequent violence continues in Balochistan, parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa  (KP) and in Karachi. In many of these areas terrorist groups are closely affiliated with organised crime, engaging in kidnapping for ransom, drugs trafficking and target killings. Elsewhere, occasional incidents such as in Southern Punjab and recently in Gilgit, Baltistan add to the general perception of an unstable law and order situation, with the Pakistani authorities struggling to control their own territory. Civilian law enforcement and the functioning of the judiciary are hampered by large case backlogs, poor case handling, ineffective criminal investigation and prosecution, including terrorism cases, inefficient administration and corruption. In 2010, Pakistan was hit by its worst ever monsoon floods, destroying crops and infrastructure for an estimated USD 10 billion and affecting around 20 million people. More localised, but no less severe in impact, the 2011 monsoon floods hit some five million people in Sindh. Overall, Pakistan’s economic performance remains poor, with insufficient growth rates (around 3 %) to absorb the rapidly expanding and very young population. The country is highly prone to natural disasters. These are likely to increase in occurrence and severity as the impact of climate change begins to show in coming years. The fiscal situation gives rise to concern due to unsustainable levels of subsidies and an apparent lack of political consensus to increase the extremely low levels of taxation. Lack of public resources prevents the government from carrying out necessary structural investment to improve service delivery to build greater stability and better resilience to future crises. Despite numerous security and economic problems, there has been a remarkable degree of persistence in the functioning of the democratic institutions. The current Government, already the longest civilian-led in Pakistan’s history, may complete its full term in office in the first quarter of 2013. The Government, Supreme Court and the Parliament frequently clash, but whereas in the past this could easily have precipitated direct military intervention, this no longer seems acceptable. In this sense, democracy in Pakistan appears to be consolidating. Early elections in winter 2012 however, cannot be ruled out. Preparations of the electoral roll have been linked to the national identity card system and are expected to be concluded by May 2012. Progress has been made on other electoral reform aspects through the ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the adoption of amendments to the Pakistan constitution (18th amendment) also linked to the EU election observation mission recommendations. Short Description (1) Support to electoral reforms – This action contributed to enhancing the capacity and the role of parliamentary and election authorities. It builds on the recommendations of the EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) report on the February 2008 elections and focuses on: (1) increased electoral reform activity by the Federal Parliament (namely the National Assembly); (2) improving the legal framework for local elections; and (3) improved media coverage of electoral reform issues and the local elections. The EU implementing partner for this programme is Democracy Reporting International. (2A) Civilian capacity building for law enforcement in Pakistan (CCBLE) - This programme aimed to strengthen civilian law enforcement agencies by: (1) supporting the institution and capacity building of the National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA); (2) improving the capacity of the provincial forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab to handle counter-terrorism investigations; (3) improving the ability of law enforcement agencies to handle media relations; (4) supporting the criminal justice system in the Punjab province; and (5) improving the understanding of governance issues in the border areas of Afghanistan.  This action was implemented by GIZ International Services as lead agency for the consortium EUNIDA. (2B) Procurement of equipment for civilian capacity building of law enforcement in Pakistan. The CCBLE programme included the provision of non-military, non-lethal equipment to improve the counter-terrorism capacity of the police forces in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. A contract for the procurement of equipment was awarded to UNOPS. (3) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa/Federally Administered Tribal Areas/Balochistan Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF). The Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF) aims to support the reconstruction and development of the border areas after the military operations carried out in 2009 in response to the insurgency there. Moreover, it addresses governance issues and citizen-state relations to prevent further conflicts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (formerly Northwest Frontier Province/NWFP), the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Baluchistan. In particular, it aims to restore damaged infrastructure and disrupted services, improve frontline service delivery via local government, health and education departments. It further aims to support livelihoods, particularly for the internally displaced. The MDTF is administered by the World Bank. MDTF projects are to be executed by the Governments of Pakistan, KP, FATA, and Balochistan. The current funding of MDTF amounts to US$ 140.2 million, over 70% of which are EU and EU Member State contributions (Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Sweden and UK). (4A) Flood Response: Local governance rehabilitation programme. This programme focuses on restoration of local government functions, community participation and rule of law. It is implemented by the UNDP in 29 flood affected districts throughout Pakistan. The programme is part of the UNDP Early Recovery and Restoration of Flood Affected Communities in Pakistan Programme (ERP), amounting to a total of US$ 120 million. (4B) Flood Response: Media-floods Response Programme. This programme aims at improving communication on recovery and reconstruction efforts between the government, external aid providers and flood affected communities through strengthened professional radio and TV reporting. The programme is country-wide and is implemented by the media organisation Internews. Activities and State of Play (1) Support to electoral reforms The implementation of the programme advanced well during 2011. Quality publications, briefing papers, workshops and advocacy events were widely appreciated and contributed to enhancing stakeholder understanding of international electoral standards and practices and the need for further reforms in the Pakistan legal framework, in compliance with its international commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The work on local government elections was conducted through advocacy, preparation of Legal Election Framework Assessments for two provinces, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as All-Provinces event (part II). Intensive engagement was pursued with Balochistan, the only province that had adopted a Local Government Act. In May 2011, the Government of Balochistan notified the constitution of Balochistan Committee to review the Act, also in view of the fact that the legislation was prepared prior to the 18th Amendment of the Constitution. The EU-sponsored election legal assessment of the Balochistan Local Government Act could represent background material for this review. Domestic civil society network Free and Fair Elections Network (FAFEN) was supported through capacity building on long-term election observation methodology with examples of EU EOM methodology. The programme worked with the media through capacity building for reporters, production of weekly monitor of election issues in local-language media (Local Language Media Coverage of Electoral Reform and Local Elections in Pakistan), providing insight into the Urdu speaking media, otherwise non accessible to foreigners, and the preparation of a guidebook on media reporting on elections. (2A) Civilian capacity building for law enforcement in Pakistan.   The project has largely achieved its objectives and implicitly contributed in establishing the EU as an actor and donor in counter-terrorism and the justice and security sector in Pakistan, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. CCBLE has produced a substantial pool of human and technical resources, including police master trainers, prosecutorial decision-making guidelines and a code of conduct as well as Standard Operating Procedures curricula and manuals on police–media relations and on subject matters such as crime scene investigation, crime scene management and forensic investigation, terrorism processes, leadership and management, human rights and gender. The support to NACTA was less successful, mainly due to Pakistani internal institutional issues. (2B) Procurement of equipment for civilian capacity building of law enforcement in Pakistan.  Following an equipment needs assessment conducted jointly with the Pakistani authorities, bomb disposal and other equipment was delivered in December 2011. Trainings for the use of the equipment was organised. (3) KP/FATA/Balochistan Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF). With financial commitments of US $ 140 million at the end of 2011, the MDTF project portfolio comprised of ten interventions at various stages of preparation. Perceived strategic and operational challenges in the functioning of the MDTF (disbursement pace and delivery for results; use of programmatic approach on the basis of enhanced results framework; alignment to the government approved peace-building strategy for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and FATA - Post Crisis Needs Assessment (co-funded by the EU/IfS) and clarity on the added value, complementarities of MDTF vis-à-vis bilateral donors' assistance and government budgets) were tackled through concerted efforts of MDTF partners. As a result, a new MDTF Engagement Strategy was adopted in October 2011. It set the way forward for a more programmatic approach for the functioning of the fund and a better alignment to the Post Crisis Needs Assessment. At the end of 2011, the Government of Pakistan agreed on a blanket approval for future MDTF funded activities, which should result in substantially increasing the speed and delivery potential of the fund.  (4A) IfS Floods Response: Local governance rehabilitation programme. The reconstruction and rehabilitation of government buildings affected by the floods, which accounts for one third of the total direct eligible project cost, was delayed due to unsuccessful tenders, security concerns, and the need to reprioritise the buildings to ensure a representative sample of buildings from all government departments. The soft components, such as the set-up of One-Window-Operations, Community Citizen Boards and Musalihat Anjumans (alternative dispute resolution mechanisms) have been progressing according to plan. The Punjab PDMA inaugurated their Emergency Operation Centre which was established in the context of this programme in January 2011. (4B) Media for Early Recovery from Floods 2010. The programme is progressing well and opening the space for work with radio and TV stations across the country, both national and regional, through partnerships for training and mentoring of journalists on use of professional media techniques as well as for production of radio and TV talk shows and broadcasts. The programme is active in the fast developing media field in Pakistan with ever increasing demands for professional reporting and responsive, responsible journalism. Equally important has been the work on providing skills to communities to constructively voice their concerns through the media, as well as closing the information and feedback circle between communities-media-local government authorities. In this sense, the radio and TV shows supported through the programme are useful platforms for interaction between community members, humanitarian actors and government officials on issues of flood recovery. Some programme partner radio stations continue producing programmes and using techniques learned beyond the conclusion of concrete EU-funded input for them.      Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IFS plays a crucial role in the strengthening of the EU-Pakistan relationship. It provides for a flexible and robust response to the different crises and political developments that would not otherwise be possible. The activities complement and widen the scope of EU action in Pakistan, bringing in a much stronger governance dimension. As a result there is better coherence between cooperation and relief operations with the growing political agenda as is also reflected in the 5-year EU–Pakistan Engagement Plan that was approved in early 2012. The IFS funding for the preparation of Post-Crisis Needs Assessment (PCNA) in response to the devastating impact of the Malakand insurgency in 2009 and subsequent contribution to the Multi-Donor Trust Fund reflect the concrete start of EU engagement in support of a wider peace building and development strategy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan and the Federal Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). As EU and EU-MS continue channeling significant resources into these areas, the assistance to stabilisation to reduce the negative impact of economic deprivation due to insurgency and lack of security remains of high priority. Where long-term interventions are feasible, these will be done through regular development funding. Elsewhere, such as the population affected by the ongoing military operations in FATA or the ethnic strife in Baluchistan, relief and crisis measures continue to be required. The project on capacity building in countering terrorism has demonstrated the more profound structural problems of law enforcement in Pakistan and institutional constraints for externally funded interventions. This experience sets the basis for a more coordinated EU and EU-MS comprehensive support programme for the rule of law sector that seeks a stronger political engagement and remains sufficiently strategic. It will look to combine funds from crisis measures and development cooperation, addressing a combination of counter terrorism, criminality and access to justice. The support to electoral reforms has allowed for the unique opportunity to concretely pursue the recommendations of the widely commended 2008 EU Electoral Observation Mission. The continuing involvement of the Chief Observer, MEP Michael Gahler and the attention given during the visits of EU Commissioner Piebalgs and EP Delegation of the Committee on Development have reinforced the importance of a sustained engagement in support of the democratic process through improved electoral legislation. The EU continues assistance through its development programmes in support of the Senate and the National and Provincial Assemblies.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Peru

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Social Peace and Stability in Emerging Crisis Areas in Peru (2) Rehabilitation after the Earthquake in Southern Areas of Peru ||

Type of measure || Regional Peace-building Capacity, Reconciliation, Post-Disaster Recovery

Dates of Adoption of IfS Decisions || (1) 25/04/2008 (2) 25/08/2008

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  2,533,000 Contracted: EUR  2,533,000 Paid: EUR  2,344,862 (2) EUR  3,000,000 Contracted: EUR  3,000,000 Paid: EUR  2,000,000 ||

Start Dates of Projects || (1) 01/02/2009; (2) 30/10/2008

End Dates || (1) 01/02/2011; (2) 31/10/2010 (including extensions)

Context of Instability The EU has long supported the Peruvian Government’s efforts to strengthen democracy, modernise the state, fight against poverty and promote respect of human rights. It also supported the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission created in 2001 to report on the years of political violence and to provide recommendations to promote peace and reconciliation. However, recurrent social conflicts, drug production and trafficking remain destabilising factors. Moreover, Peru is vulnerable to natural disasters and exposed to earthquakes. In August 2007, a powerful 7.9 magnitude earthquake hit the coast of Peru, killing at least 337 people and injuring hundreds more. Short Description (1) Social Peace and Stability in Emerging Crisis Areas in Peru - This IfS project supported a programme, implemented by UNDP together with the Conflict Analysis and Prevention Unit of the Prime Minister’s Office (PCM), to promote social peace and stability in areas experiencing emerging crises and to ensure recovery after natural disasters. The programme supported specifically the Conflict Analysis and Prevention Unit of the PCM and strengthened capacities in other state institutions as well as of civil society organisations. (2) Rehabilitation after the earthquake in Southern areas of Peru - This IfS programme provided urgently needed support for the reconstruction of the three provinces of Castrovirreyna, Yauyos and Huaytara located in the southern part of Peru, severely affected by the earthquake of 15 August 2007, in which many lives were lost and almost 100.000 houses destroyed or damaged. Activities and State of Play (1) Social Peace and Stability in Emerging Crisis Areas in Peru - The project ended in January 2011 when its activities were focused on their closure and the presentation of the results achieved. The main results and impact of the action are as follows: the establishment of conflict prevention offices in 9 regions in the country and in each Ministry at national level, strengthened capacities of public officials working in these offices and in the PCM, a draft public policy on conflict prevention and management, a national map of emerging crises and conflicts as well as an early warning system located in the Prime Minister’s office. Also, the project supported dialogue round tables after the conflict between police, military and indigenous groups in Bagua in June 2009, therefore strengthening capacities of civil society representatives to negotiate and dialogue to prevent conflict. By being the first programme highlighting conflict prevention and management in the country and putting it on the national agenda, the project brought an essential contribution to conflict prevention. Other donors such as the Canadian ACDI and USAID have followed and ACDI is currently implementing a follow-up programme together with the UNDP. However, although the project can be considered as innovative and successful in terms of implemented activities and outcomes, it is important to stress that its impact was subsequently reduced due to the fact that the majority of officials trained in the PCM and other ministries as well as in the regional governments left their positions after the change of government in January (regional governments) and July (national government) 2011. (2) Rehabilitation after the earthquake in Southern areas of Peru - The project ended in October 31 of 2010. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Social Peace and Stability in Emerging Crisis Areas in Peru – The action is fully in line with the EU Country Strategy and a previous EU project under the Rapid Reaction Mechanism. The Country Strategy Paper 2007-2013 includes support to actions related to some of the project’s components. As mentioned above, the Canadian ACDI is currently initiating a programme together with UNDP, partly based on the experiences of the EU IfS project.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Philippines

Title of IfS Decisions || (1) EU-Philippine Justice Support Programme (EPJUST) (2) EU participation in the international organs established to support the peace process in the South of the Philippines ||

Type of measure || (1) Rule of Law (2) Civilian protection; peace-building, mediation, and reconciliation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || (1) 17/04/2009 (2) 28/09/2010

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  3,900,000 Contracted: EUR 3,689,847 Paid: as of 31/12/2011 EUR 3,399,187 (2) EUR  3,000,000 Contracted: EUR 2,999,982 Paid: as of 31/12/2011 EUR  1,760,642

Start Date of Project || (1) 2009 (2) 2010

End Date || (1) 2011 (2) 2012

Context of Instability (1) From 2001 onwards, an increasing number of "unexplained" murders of political activists, farmers' representatives, trade-unionists and journalists attracted national and international attention and, although the precise numbers are disputed, the cases became vivid illustrations of a culture of impunity. From late 2006 onwards, President Arroyo took a number of steps to address these killings, including the establishment of a special commission to report on the issue. She also asked the EU to provide technical assistance, helping the Philippines to properly address the issues linked to such killings. There were indications the number of killings decreased after 2007 but the run-up to the presidential elections in 2010 saw a renewed escalation. The extra-judicial killings continued into 2011 and convictions are yet to be secured, despite strong commitment from President Aquino to fight such crimes. (2) The struggle of minority Muslim groups in the southern region of Mindanao has deep historical roots. Some of the local groups that demanded recognition of their rights in the 1960s formed armed rebel groups seeking increased autonomy or even an independent state (120,000 dead, and 2 million displaced over the last three decades). During the last few years, instability persists, although a cease-fire agreement was reached between the Government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). The agreement was punctuated by periodic violations with a potentially high disruptive impact on the on-going peace process and insecurity remains a major concern for the population of Mindanao. When in 2009, improved relations between the parties led to an official suspension of military actions by both sides, the two Parties also agreed to create an International Contact Group (ICG) to assist in the negotiations and to expand the mandate of the International Monitoring Team (IMT), assessing compliance with already brokered agreements. In recognition of the EU’s contributions to the resumption of the peace process, the EU was invited to take part in the monitoring body. In spite of these positive developments, the peace talks only officially re-started on 9-10 February 2011. A draft peace agreement by the Government in August 2011 was immediately rejected by the MILF, but the mediation efforts of the ICG saved the talks from completely breaking down.  And when a series of violent incidents broke out in October 2011, resulting in deaths of soldiers, combatants and civilians, the Parties rose to the occasion and resisted calls for escalation and continued the negotiations. Short Description (1) The main purpose of the action was to contribute to the improvement of the investigation, prosecution and trial of persons involved in extra-judicial killings and enforced disappearances by competent Philippine Authorities. In that context, the EPJUST programme provided support to State agencies charged with the investigation, prosecution and judicial pursuit of these crimes as well as to the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) and civil society bodies to monitor investigations of crimes and provide protection and support to witnesses and families of victims. (2) The objective of this ongoing action is to support the peace process in southern Philippines through mediation, monitoring and confidence-building to ultimately bring about lasting peace and security. It contributes to a) the EU's participation in the International Monitoring Team; and b) support of the International Contact Group through the participation of an international NGO (Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue). Activities and State of Play (1) The EU-Philippine Justice Support Programme (EPJUST) carried out technical assistance activities through a core team of EU experts, assisted by more than 35 short-term experts. The programme had some important achievements, widely praised by local stakeholders and international counterparts, such as enhancing the capacity of the criminal justice system and the Commission on Human Rights. In particular, investigations have been considerably improved through enhanced collection of material evidence and a more efficient and effective handling of testimonial evidence. Furthermore, in addition to a contribution to provision of services to more than a 1000 victims, the civil society organisations supported have been capacitated related to their monitoring, advocacy and assistance functions. (2) The programme was adopted in September 2010, mainly to finance EU and NGO participation in the International Contact Group (ICG) and the International Monitoring Team (IMT). During 2011 it supported: i) two EU experts of the IMT headquarters plus a number of field staff to monitor the implementation of humanitarian, rehabilitation and development aspects of the signed agreements; ii) NGO participation in the IMT to help ensure safety and security of communities, mainly through training and deployment of a combined force of 185 Civilian Protection Monitors; and iii) Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue participation in the ICG. CDH has supported the dialogue process between the parties through preparation and facilitation of the peace talks. This "peacekeeping" and "peacemaking" programme has proved instrumental in improving, or at least preserving, the peaceful situation on the ground and in promoting and maintaining political negotiations on track. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response (1) Under the bilateral EU-Philippines DCI programme, a EUR 10 million follow-up programme will continue and expand on the achievements of the EPJUST Programme, including improving capacities for investigations and facilitating access to justice.   (2) The IfS supported programme allows the EU to live up to the political commitments and recommendations of the EU Council and the European Parliament regarding EU involvement in the monitoring of the peace process in southern Philippines. Other EU support, forming part of the cooperation programme, addresses root causes of the conflict. For example, through assisting community-based development with the Bangsamoro Development Agency or addressing symptoms of the conflict, such as humanitarian and recovery assistance to displaced populations in Mindanao. Following a renewed endorsement by the Member states of EU participation in the IMT and the IMG in February 2012, a new IfS support programme is currently being elaborated.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Seychelles

Title of IfS Decision || EU assistance in support of the trial and related treatment of piracy suspects ||

Type of measure || Support to judicial system

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 8 October 2009

Amount(s) || EUR  780.000 Contracted: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  780.000 Paid: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  467.000

Start Date of Project || 24 February 2010

End Date || 23 February 2012 (including a 6-month no-cost extension)

Context of Instability Combating piracy along some of the world’s major shipping routes off the Horn of Africa is a high priority for the countries of the region as well as the wider international community. Apart from its impact on overall security, the disruption of trade caused by the piracy crisis is damaging the already fragile economies of countries of the region. The EU is actively engaged in the fight against piracy through the conduct of the CSDP naval operation EU-NAVFOR Atalanta, contributing to the protection of vulnerable sea vessels and the deterrence, prevention and repression of acts of piracy and armed robbery off the Somali coast. In October 2009, the EU concluded an agreement with the Seychelles to allow piracy suspects detained by the Atalanta operation to be transferred to the Seychelles for trial (the Seychelles was the second country in the region signing a transfer agreement with the EU, after Kenya). Short Description The IfS assistance aims to support the conduct of piracy trials, ensuring these processes are fair, humane and efficient and that they take place within a sound rule-of-law framework. Activities and State of Play The IfS assistance is implemented through a contribution agreement with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).  They have implemented the following activities: Legislative review and assistance with amendments to relevant legislation; Prosecutor support, including jurisprudence on piracy and production of handover guidance; Provision of IT and office equipment (incl. transcription equipment and digital fingerprint recognition equipment); Support to Police/Coast Guard, including investigator’s training; Witness and trial support, including interpreters, costs for the defence and enhanced security arrangements in the court; Workshops for judges on piracy-related offences; Support to the prison service, including recruitment and training of a Parole Officers, prison management training for senior officers, support towards the introduction of improved prison routines. Seychelles (one of the world’s smallest states) is directly affected by piracy (notably on tourism, shipping lines and fishery) and is particularly keen on supporting the international efforts.  Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This IfS action complements the EU’s CSDP anti-piracy naval operation Atalanta and the wider efforts of the EU and the international community to tackle the piracy problem in the Gulf of Aden. However, the Seychelles’ contribution to the joint fight against piracy is restricted by its limited capacities. It is important that EU Member States, the UNODC and other international actors continue and build on the initial measures addressing some of their short-term needs. The Seychelles will also benefit from the implementation of the Eastern and Southern African and Indian Ocean region's strategy on maritime security endorsed in 2010 and supported by the EU. This strategy involves five regional organisations plus the affected countries, establishing a comprehensive approach to fight piracy and to improve maritime security.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Sri Lanka

Title of IfS Decision || Recovery to Serve || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Mediation and Political Dialogue

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 21/12/2007

Amount(s) || Recovery to Serve Contracted: EUR  728,606.66 Paid: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  582,885.33

Start Date of Project || 01/07/2009

End Date || 30/06/2012

Context of Instability Sri Lanka suffered from an armed conflict for 26 years, which inflicted more than 150,000 casualties both in the north and south. The war came to an end with the complete defeat of the last remnants of the LTTE (Tamil Tigers) near Mullaitivu on 19 May 2009. By early 2009, heavy fighting in the northern Vanni region had produced a major humanitarian crisis, with hundreds of thousands of civilians trapped between government and Tamil Tiger forces in the shrinking areas under their control. There are credible allegations that grave human rights abuses were committed by both sides. UN agencies initially estimated the civilian death toll at between 7,500 and 30,000 and over 15,000 wounded from mid-January 2009 until the end of combat. With the entire LTTE leadership killed in fighting, the military phase of Sri Lanka’s three decade long civil war came to an end. However, obstacles to finding a lasting and just peace remain. Following the end of the fighting nearly 300,000 civilians were held in Menik Farm and other overcrowded Government-run internment camps in the Northern Province. According to UNHCR figures, a total of 14,749 families or 42,134 individuals of IDPs displaced after April 2008 remained in camps or with host families in December 2011. The majority of an estimated 11,000 LTTE ex-combatants at the end of the war were detained in unofficial closed camps but most of the surrendering fighters were "rehabilitated" and have been allowed to leave. Accountability regarding alleged war crimes on both sides remains a major unresolved issue and a report published in 2011 by the UNSG concluded there was prima facie evidence of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission set up by GoSL, amidst scepticism among human rights organisations, took a longer-term view of the conflict and identified some isolated cases of war crimes by SLA members. The final report of the Commission, published in December 2011, issued a number of far-reaching recommendations for a national reconciliation process, which are yet to be followed up. Around that time, the GoSL admitted that up to 8,000 civilians may have died during the final months of the war. At the same time (December 2011), GoSL also published a National Human Rights Action Plan (NHRAP) that so far has attracted little public attention. The few comments received from civil society have been mostly critical. Land acquisition and the issue of land permits to individuals perceived to be close to GoSL and the continuing strong military presence in the North remain a contentious issue. Short Description The project aims to strengthen conflict prevention, crisis management and peace-building in five eastern and southern districts of Sri Lanka. More specifically, the project seeks to improve civil society capacity in conflict prevention, crisis management and peace building; promote networking between the Target Districts and between Districts and the representatives of national civil society, codify and disseminate best practices learned from the action. Activities and State of Play Implementation is progressing according to plan. The project supports, among other actions, the work of women's rural development societies, addressing post-war gender issues but also male alcoholism and the misuse of micro-credit. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response In 2011, IfS measures were complemented and followed up by EU humanitarian and development programmes. All contracts under the DCI AAP 2010, with a total volume of EUR  16 million consists of socio-economic measures (SEM) to facilitate the voluntary return or resettlement of IDPs to their places of origin. In December 2011, a Decision for EUR 60 million under the MIP 2011-2013 was adopted (Support to District Development Plans – SDDP). Through thematic instruments, notably EIDHR and Non-State Actors and Local Authorities in Development, the EU continues to fund human rights projects.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Sudan and South Sudan

Title of IfS Decisions || 1) Support for stabilisation and referendum related processes in Sudan 2) Support to peace-building and stabilisation in Sudan and South Sudan

Type of measure || Regional Peace building

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || 1)  6.5.2010 2) 11.8.2011

Amount(s) || 1) EUR  15,000,000 Contracted: as of 31/12/2011: EUR 15,000,000 Paid: as of 31/12/2011: EUR 14,418,151 2) EUR  18,000,000 Contracted: as at 31/12/2011: EUR 10,281,516 (Committed: EUR 14,281,516) EUR   Paid: as at 31/12/2011: EUR 3,085,916

||

End Date || 1) 31/12/2011 2) various in 2013

Context of Instability The Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), signed in January 2005 by the National Congress Party (NCP) and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), ended many years of conflict between the North and the South of the former united Sudan. Since the signature of the CPA, considerable strides were made to reach a sustained peace in Sudan. A major event, as required according to the CPA, was the referendum on South Sudan's self-determination in January 2011, when an overwhelming majority voted in favour of separation from Sudan. South Sudan officially declared its independence on 9 July 2011. Since the referendum relations between Sudan and South Sudan have been volatile. Several risks and threats to stability were identified during the preparation of the IfS Decision of 2011, including a number of issues related to or being accentuated in the Common Border Zone (CBZ). The increased risk for de-stabilisation in the CBZ emanates from a number of potential conflict triggers. In addition to friction at a national level, there are local tensions with the potential to escalate: i) increased tensions between pastoralists and farmers due to resource-scarcity (access to water/land); ii) the high proliferation of small arms among the local population and the inability of government organs to provide security iii) the additional pressures on land resources generated by southerners returning from the north and to a lesser extent of northerners from the south; iv) the high level of uncertainty regarding the nature and exact delineation of the new international boundary (soft or hard border). North-south relations grew increasingly tense over the period between May and September 2011. A dispute north of Abyei town led to an invasion and subsequent occupation of the Abyei Area by the Sudanese Army (SAF, north) and government-supported militias in early May 2011, leading to the destruction of Abyei town while large parts of the local population were pushed into South Sudan. In June 2011 the Sudanese military moved into the states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile to carry out a forced disarmament campaign of the SPLA-N, instantly leading to serious conflict across the states, resulting in nearly half a million people being left displaced. South Sudan also faces critical challenges to stability with numerous internal conflicts, often linked to ethnic tensions.  In the last few months, such tensions have been particularly violent in Jonglei state. South Sudan’s governance structures are also nascent and there is a significant risk of lack of good governance and state failure. In addition, the expectations of significant peace dividends are high in South Sudan, notably the delivery of basic services such as health care, education and water. Short description 1) Support for stabilisation and referendum related processes in Sudan (2010) The Decision consists of two main components: (i) support for the implementation of the self determination referendum in South Sudan and other related referendum/consultation processes in Sudan; and (ii) quick and visible ‘peace dividends’ to be delivered to the population of South Sudan through  support for the provision of basic services so as to help ensure stabilisation. 2) Support to peace-building and stabilisation in Sudan and South Sudan, in particular in the area around their Common Border Zone (2011). The Decision consists of three main components: (i) Peacebuilding and conflict mitigation/prevention support to facilitate improved confidence and security relations in the common border areas enabling effective mitigation/management of local conflicts; (ii) support to state level bodies enabling them to effectively collect, map and analyse conflict threats and enhance their ability to build confidence, trust and improve security for local communities; and (iii) quick impact projects enabling flexible responses, that contribute towards stabilisation. Activities and State of Play 1) The 2010 programme’s actions were successfully concluded in December 2011. Support to the self determination referendum in South Sudan (including voter education, domestic observation and media monitoring) was provided through a UNDP managed trust fund. Despite time constraints and a non-conducive political environment in the North, the referendum was evaluated by, amongst others, an EU Election Observation Mission as a credible process reflecting the overwhelming desire of Southern Sudanese for secession. Valuable support to both Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities was provided by a skilled expert pool assisting with referendum preparations as well as post-referendum negotiations for which the EU received letters of appreciation from the authorities of both Sudan and South Sudan. The ‘Basic Services Fund’ delivering basic services (education, health, water and sanitation)  in the most disadvantaged areas contributed towards delivering some of the long awaited "peace dividends" in Southern Sudan. 2) The contracting of the 2011 IfS decision was partially finalised by the end of the year and several activities began in the last quarter, including crisis mapping, analysis and the identification of appropriate, conflict sensitive responses in the Common Border Zone. The worsening security conditions linked to the conflict in South Kordofan and Blue Nile has rendered access to those border areas increasingly difficult. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response As Sudan has not ratified the revised Cotonou agreement, it is not entitled to funding from the 10th European Development Fund (EDF). However, de-committed funds from the 9th EDF (EUR 150 million) have been programmed for priority actions in support of the most vulnerable populations, both North and South of the internal border. It is foreseen that several of the actions funded will build upon output from the IfS decision of 2011, notably concerning identification of conflict sensitive support. The longer-term actions funded under EDF will also allow for follow-up of actions initiated under the IfS programme.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Syria

Title of IfS Decision || Engaging Youth addressing Palestinian Refugee Youth exclusion to prevent radicalisation and conflict || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || (1) Assistance to Transition (electoral processes); (2) Assistance to transition (capacity building of civic actors; support to civil society actors)

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions ||  26/01/2010

Total Amount(s) || EUR  4,726,577.00 Contracted: EUR  4,726,577.00 Paid: EUR  4,253,919.00 Paid in 2011: interim payment of EUR  938,950.80

Start Dates of Projects || 26/01/2010

End Dates of Projects || 31/01/2012

Context of Instability It is estimated that between 3 and 7% of the inhabitants of Syria are refugees, mainly from Palestine and Iraq. Well before the broader unrest started in Syria in March 2011, young refugees in particular were facing a lack of opportunities and future perspective. Many inhabitants of Syria have faced similar challenges but refugee youths were and are disproportionately affected by unemployment, exclusion and poverty. Their uncertain legal status and difficult living conditions have fuelled frustrations among refugee youths. The resulting social problems such as vandalism, substance abuse or dropping out from school were new to the refugee community and risked creating tensions also with the host communities. Among the refugee community, those living in camps were worst affected. The events since March 2011 will have further aggrevated the situation also for the refugee population. For those not directly affected by violence, the curfews, interruptions of public services and product shortages have further reduced the opportunities to gain a living. As fighting continues to spread the vulnerability among the refugee population increases along with that of the general population. Short Description and Objectives The action which is implemented through UNRWA aims to reduce tensions arising from the presence of large numbers of Palestinian and Iraqi refugees in Syria, specifically by enhancing young refugees' future prospects. Young men and women gain access to employment related skills, career counselling, vocational training and training on entrepreneurship. While the programme cannot provide economic opportunities to all young refugees it helps to ensure that young people, particular in refugee camps, see that there are options for them to improve their situation. Activities and State of Play Over 20,000 young people between 13 and 15 have so far benefitted from at least one of the activities offered by the programme. Young refugees living in camps were specifically targetted through the creation of centres where both educational and recreational activities are on offer. Some of the activities are also open to Syrian teenagers so as to strengthen the integration effort. Those with learning difficulties now have a better chance of staying in formal education as support services have been made available in the twelve centres created so far. Parents and community members are able to acquire literacy skills, learn English or how to use a computer thus enabling them to better support the development of their teenage children. Over 1200 unemployed youth have so far received short-term vocational training in professions where demand for labour exists. Six of the centres also offer training and counselling to young refugee entrepreneurs, helping them to develop their business activities and, at least for some, this also means becoming a fully accredited professional. The on-going security threat has affected some operations but the programme remains active even in the difficult circumstances.   Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response IfS support in Syria is in line with the overall EU and international efforts to support civil society and contribute to a peaceful resolution of conflicts. Initial support was intended to fill a gap that had been identified which, at the time, could not be filled through either the thematic budget lines for civil society nor the bilateral support provided through the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI). Given its initial success, a second phase of the programme can now start with ENPI funds in 2012. Although the circumstances under which this programme is now being implemented have changed significantly, its objectives and activities remain pertinent.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Thailand

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Supporting the Reconciliation Process in Southern Thailand (2) Strengthening the Rule of Law to Enhance Access to Justice in Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || (1) Reconciliation, Rule of Law and Political Dialogue (2) Legal reform and Rule of Law

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 20/12/2007 (2) 30/07/2009 (PAMF 3)

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  3,000,000; Contracted: EUR  2,999,014; Paid: EUR  2,770,252 (2) EUR  940,357; Contracted: EUR  940,357; Paid: EUR  752,285

Start Date of Project || (1) 28/01/2008; (2) 14/04/2010

End Date || (1) Last project: 30/06/2011; (2) 16/10/2011

Context of Instability Thailand has two main contexts of instability: The first relates to the ethno-nationalist insurgency which re-emerged in Thailand's southernmost provinces in early 2004. This context is often overshadowed by the second context, a conflict between political parties and groups, which led to the coup of September 2006 and the riots of 2009 and 2010 in Bangkok. To date, the IfS actions in Thailand (1 and 2 above) have mainly focused on the first context: The insurgency takes place in the three Southern Border Provinces (SBPs) of Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat (annexed to Thailand in 1906) where the population is predominantly Muslim and ethnic-Malay. Since 2004 almost daily shootings and bomb attacks have resulted in over 5,000 deaths and 12,000 injured in more than 11.000 attacks, mostly against civilians, making it the most violent conflict in South East Asia. Eight years on, the violence continues unabated with no end in sight. Since the attacks have been restricted to the three SBPs with no foreigners targeted, this conflict is relatively unknown outside the region.  However, in addition to concerns for the victims, there are widespread worries that the unrest may spill over outside the SBPs or even link up with regional terrorist organisations (i.e. Jemaah Islamiyah or Al Qaeda in Southeast Asia), which to date have played no significant role in the violence. Various factors, including unmet demands for recognition of local identity and decentralisation coupled with human rights abuses by security forces and a lack of effective rule of law have fuelled the conflict. Addressing these legitimate concerns is essential in order to bring long-lasting peace to the region. Short Description (1) This IfS Decision provided support to the efforts of non-state actors in the conflict area of Southern Thailand. The two main areas of cooperation were: a) Support to "Access to Justice", aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system by tackling impunity for crimes and HR abuses and b) Support in the area of "Informed Debate" comprising measures to enhance media independence and objectivity, promoting social dialogue, as well as examining examples of autonomy and political devolution in other countries. (2) On the back of the success achieved by our project to support access to justice, the Ministry of Justice agreed to a project to examine the current legal system in its application in the SBPs, and to assist in the establishment of an Institute for Legal Reform in the SBPs. Activities and State of Play (1) The programme was implemented through six grants. Two of them focused on "Access to Justice", three on "Informed Debate", civil society and examples of autonomy, and a sixth project aimed at analysing the data on victimisation in the SBPs. All projects ended satisfactorily during 2009 and 2010, except the victimisation study which ended in 2011. (2) Due to the positive impact from the actions under the first IfS programme, the Thai Ministry of Justice agreed to a two-phase project to analyse the state of the legal system, and its application in the SBPs as well as capacity building of military judges. The first phase of the project ended satisfactorily by the end of 2010, while the second phase ended successfully in October 2011. Whenever possible gender issues are mainstreamed in the projects (related both to rights protection and the gender of participants). Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The activities funded under IfS spearheaded and complemented several actions supported under the Thai-EC Cooperation Facility (the Development Cooperation Instrument, DCI and thematic programmes). The EU Delegation also co-ordinates closely with EU Member States regarding defining and implementing IFS projects.  This has for example resulted in the continuation of project (2) under German funding. It also co-operates with a group of like minded countries in analysing and following-up on the situation in the SBPs.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Timor-Leste

Title of IfS Decisions || Programme in Support of Peace and Stability in Timor-Leste Promoting Accountability to Strengthen Peace in Timor-Leste Crisis preparedness component || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Conflict Resolution & Reconciliation, Transitional Justice and Peace-building Partnership Support

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || 1) 11/11/2008 2) 09/12/2009 3) 08/02/2011

Amount(s) || 1) Total Decision: EUR 4,700,000; Paid: EUR 4,555,512 // 2011 ongoing project: EUR 1,498,196; Paid: EUR 1,412,928. 2) EUR 552,499; Paid: EUR 519,699 3) EUR 660,643; Paid: EUR 377,708.96

Start Date of Projects || Various start dates from 01/02/2009 to 01/01/2012

End Dates || Various end dates from 31/01/2011 to 31/12/2013

Context of Instability Timor-Leste is recovering from the 2006 civil unrest and the shootings of President José Ramos-Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão in February 2008. However, several factors contributing to instability in the 2006 crisis and the 2008 events are still present in varying degrees, making this recovery fragile. The international community discusses whether the current relative stability is an indication of successful institution building or simply a lull before the 2012 elections. Timor-Leste held presidential elections in March – April 2012 to be followed by parliamentary elections in June and July. They will be important tests in consolidating the relative stability of the country since 2008. Another key task for consolidating peace and stability is to address the issues of justice and impunity arising from past human rights violations. In addition, the downsizing of the UN Mission to Timor-Leste (UNMIT) by the end of 2012, and in particular the withdrawal of UNPOL, will also be a test for the country's stability. Short Description Interventions under the Instrument for Stability in Timor-Leste respond to the national priorities established by the Government in close consultation with the international donor-community and aim to promote social peace, accountability and stability addressing issues raised by the past crises in Timor-Leste. Activities and State of Play Two ongoing projects in 2011: (1) Enhancing Stabilisation through Sustainable Reintegration of IDPs  — the project produced and broadcasted on national television an educational soap opera, known in the country as telenovela "Suku Hali" (twenty 30-minutes episodes) to initiate a process of reflection on a variety of social issues linked to the 2006 crisis. The project ended on 31 January 2011; (2) Promoting Accountability to Strengthen Peace in Timor-Leste [ICTJ] — the project team worked closely with the Parliamentary Committee responsible for the CAVR report to develop a draft law on reparations and an organic law establishing an “Institute for Memory” to oversee implementation of key CAVR and CTF recommendations. The project assisted to mobilise victim groups to provide comments to parliamentarians on the two laws. ICTJ’s work, in partnership with local organizations and the UN Mission in Timor-Leste, has been influential in drafting two parliamentary bills establishing an Institute for Memory and a National Reparations Programme. Both bills combined, once passed, will significantly contribute to implementation of the CAVR and CTF recommendations. The project ended on 31 December 2011. During the year, the launching of a local call for proposals for civil society organizations was prepared to support organizations conducting policy-oriented and field-based activities, with a strong emphasis on mediation and dialogue; addressing situations of fragility and conflict; and women, peace and security — in line with the provisions of the 2010 AAP for the Instrument for Stability crisis preparedness component. The call for proposals was published on 16th May 2011. As a result, two Grant Contracts were signed by the Delegation to Timor-Leste in December 2011 with a total amount of EUR  660,643. Specific objectives of the two awarded projects are: (1) Expansion and consolidation of the national Early Warning system to provide accurate and timely information and analysis to national and community-level stakeholders, with corresponding strengthening of policy responses and community preparedness to prevent the escalation of violence; and (2) Promotion of accountability for past human rights violations as a critical part of building a more sustainable peace in Timor-Leste, as well as working with government, civil society and victim's organisations to enhance understanding and recognition of victim's rights. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The action is fully in line with the EU strategy in the country. Coherence with other EU instruments available for Timor-Leste is assured as the activities funded under the Instrument for Stability are now followed up by longer-term support as foreseen under the 10th EDF, most notably in institutional capacity building, inter alia in the security sector, and with labour-intensive programmes in the context of sustainable rural development.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Tunisia

Title of IfS Decision || Support to Democratic Transition in Tunisia || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || (1) Assistance to Transition (electoral processes); (2) to (7) Assistance to transition (capacity building of civic actors; support to civil society actors)

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 24/03/2011

Amount(s) || EUR  2.000.000   Contracted: (1) EUR  799.842,12 - ERIS: "Assistance Technique pour la préparation des élections et le processus de réforme électoral"; (2) EUR  300.000 - ONU Femme/AFTURD/ATFD "Renforcer le droit des femmes et leur participation à la transition démocratique"; (3) EUR  300.000 - LTDH: "Promouvoir les Droits de l'Homme et l'éducation démocratique et appuyer la LTDH dans sa restructuration au niveau national et local"; (4) EUR  199.739,93 - DRI: "Promouvoir le débat et former les organisations de la société civile aux enjeux de la transition démocratique et former les formateurs pour l'observation domestique des élections";  (5) EUR 200.000 - Institut Panos Paris / SNJT "Garantir l'indépendance et le professionnalisme des médias et renforcer le SNJT"; (6) EUR  100.000 - GIZ: " Renforcer les capacités et la création d'organisations de la société civile tunisienne dans 6 régions défavorisées"; (7) EUR 100.000 - FEMDH: " Renforcer les capacités des organisations de défense des droits de l'homme et des défenseurs de droits de l'homme en Tunisie"; Paid: (1) EUR  799.842,12; (2) EUR  240.000; (3) EUR  201.520 ; (4) EUR  160.000 ; (5) EUR  160.000 ; (6) EUR  80.000; (7) EUR  80.000

Start Date of Project || (1) 20/04/2011 ; (2) 01/03/2011 ; (3) 07/04/2011 ; (4) 26/05/2011 ; (5) 21/05/2011 ; (6) 07/07/2011 ; (7) 01/05/2011 ;

End Date || (1) 19/11/2011; (2) 31/08/2012; (3) 06/10/2012; (4) 25/03/2012; (5) 20/11/2012; (6) 06/07/2012; (7) 31/10/2012

Context of Instability After several decades of authoritarian rule, the Tunisian popular revolt toppled former President Ben Ali on 14 January 2011, leading to the installation of an interim government charged with preparing the first ever democratic elections for a Constituent Assembly, which took place on 23 October 2011. In line with the European Council Conclusions of 4 February 2011, the Commission/High Representative Joint Communication of 8 March 2011 and the subsequent European Council Declaration of 11 March 2011, IfS assistance was quickly mobilised to provide immediate support to help the interim election authorities (ISIE) prepare for credible democratic elections and to strengthen the participation of civil society in political reform and transition. While the Constitutional Assembly and the transition government have been sworn in following peaceful elections on 23 October 2011, the political, socio-economic and security contexts remain difficult with instability in many parts of Tunisia. The public controversies involving religious extremists against journalists and young people at the end of 2011, the nomination of old figures of the Ben Ali regime to top media positions, as well as the persecution of some journalists, have raised concerns in terms of freedom of expression and women's rights. Thus, the advocacy role of civil society is important for the inclusion of human rights and people's interests in the drafting of the new Constitution. Civil society's role in promoting democracy, good governance, and other universal principles in underprivileged or remote regions are equally critical in terms of capacity building and interaction with local authorities and grassroots actors. Short Description The overall objective of the action is to meet two immediate and urgent needs: to provide technical assistance to the interim authorities to prepare and supervise the elections for a Constituent Assembly and future electoral processes and to strengthen the capacity of key civil society actors as part of the political transition process. It was implemented through six direct grants to Tunisian and European organizations as well as in cooperation with UN Women. In its details, the specific objectives were:    (1) Support the interim Tunisian authorities in the preparation of the first democratic election process, in particular the election of a Constituent Assembly which took place on 23 October 2012 and in fostering policy reforms for democratic transformation and future elections.    (2) to (7) Support Tunisian civil society organisations to play an active role in the democratic transition and enable them to act as advocates for the promotion of human rights, freedom of expression, women's political participation and for the vindication of socio-economic and civic  rights.  Activities and State of Play (1) An ERIS-led technical assistance (TA) team was deployed in late April 2011, providing support to the independent election commission (ISIE) in four key areas: i) training, ii) legal framework and procedures, iii) operations and public outreach, iv) media monitoring and capacity building for media regulatory bodies. The team continuously mentored the elections officials and produced 35,000 copies of a procedural handbook for polling officials. It also revised and compiled all the legal texts and regulations necessary to prepare and organize the elections of 23 October 2011. In terms of media monitoring, activities focused on training of journalists and election officials and on setting up and mentoring a media monitoring unit for the election commission. It also helped to draft the legal framework for the regulation of the media in Tunisia. Workshops were carried out at regional and national levels to inform the Administrative Tribunal on fundamental election concepts and to prepare it for its critical role in adjudicating election-related complaints. Two workshops with the police on the 'Human Rights Based Approach to Policing during Elections in Tunisia" were organised resulting in the production of an Election Security Training Handbook in Arabic, transferring knowledge to the police institutions and providing them with a tool for further training up to and beyond the election day of 23 October 2011. (2) This project, implemented by UN Women in support of the Association Tunisienne des Femmes Démocrates (ATFD) and the Association des Femmes Tunisiennes pour la Recherche et le Développement (AFTURD) promotes gender equality, women's rights and participation in all instances of public decision-making. ATFD and AFTURD representatives provided advice to the different commissions set up as part of political transition including elected members of the Constitutional Assembly. In terms of impact, main achievements to date are the inclusion of the principle of parity in all electoral lists and the formulation of an alternative draft Constitution explicitly including gender equality and women’s rights; the opening of regional centres providing advice to women and support to victims of gender-based violence and structural cooperation between the National Commission on Violations and Abuses committed during the Revolution and ATFD's Commission on violations against women based upon the latter's report on women’s rights abuses. (3) In the context of political transition, support to the restructuring of the Ligue Tunisienne des Droits de l'Homme (LTDH) was crucial in fomenting political consciousness, and democratic education in many of Tunisia's regions. The project is providing legal and psychosocial advice to victims of Human Rights violations and successfully advocated the inclusion of human rights articles in draft laws adopted as part of political transition. This work is continuing with the elected Constitutional Assembly. Additionally, LTDH led a coalition of human rights associations as part of the domestic observation of the October 2011 elections. (4) This project, implemented by DRI contributed to enhance the understanding of civil society organisations of challenges related to the democratic transition, through cycles of trainings and analysis of the draft laws and other documents adopted by the Commission in charge of political reform and the government. 500 trainers were trained resulting in the deployment of over 6000 domestic observers ahead of and during the elections of 23 October 2011. After the elections, activities focused on the Tunisian constitutional process and on chapters related to democratic governance to be drafted by the Constituent Assembly members (Bill of Rights, political regime, etc). Discussion spaces were provided on the role of civil society organisations in the on-going Constitution making process. (5) This project involving the Syndicat National des Journalistes Tunisiens (SNJT) in partnership with Institut Panos Paris (IPP) contributed to strengthen the skills of 48 Tunisian journalists training them on election coverage and political reform, an area previously unaddressed by the Tunisian press. Personalised coaching to the SNJT executive board strengthened  its advocacy and lobbying capacity  in proposing and reviewing legal texts and media, promoting the independence of media and journalists and pushing  for more guarantees on freedom of expression and other civil liberties. SNJT continues to improve and react ever more quickly to the recent restrictions and attacks on media in Tunisia condemning the perpetrators and accompanying journalists in legal proceedings. (6) (7) Both projects, implemented by GiZ and the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Foundation (EMHRF), have managed to identify a number of emerging civil society organisations, focusing on deprived areas of Tunisia. They also conduct capacity building actions and debates on issues such as migration, human rights, income generation, and elections, amongst others. Some 80 organisations are benefiting from personalised coaching and involvement in public discussions, as a means to develop their ability to lobby, promote local development or carry out social services.   Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The rapid mobilisation of IfS funds provided rapid electoral technical assistance to the Tunisian national institutions in charge of preparing for elections enabling the EU to successfully coordinate its actions with other electoral support provided by the United States and the UN and other donors. EU technical assistance was deeply appreciated by ISIE during the entire pre-electoral phase enabling it to assess good practices, lessons learned and work on long-term planning in view of elections. IfS assistance to civil society organizations was equally critical in promoting democratic principles and active citizenship immediately after the uprising while awaiting the mobilisation of further EU support under ENPI and EIDHR. This timely investment in democratic education and advocacy encouraged other emerging organizations and individuals to participate in the public debate on political transition as well as in areas such as voter education and the promotion of human and civic rights. Support to key organisations and emerging civil society groups strengthened the EU role and profile in Tunisia as the leader of a coordinated donor response, capable of building civil society capacity to advocate for credible political change and equitable local development. The funded projects paved the way for longer-terms actions covering the same themes under other EU instruments (ENPI, EIDHR, Non-State Actors) or programmes funded by other donors.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Western Balkans
(regional actions)

Title of IfS Decision || Supporting the transfer of knowledge and materials of war crimes cases from the ICTY to national jurisdictions (War Crimes Justice Project) ||

Type of measure || Rule of Law and Transitional Justice

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 3/11/2009 (under Transitional Justice Facility)

Amount(s) || EUR  4,000,000 Contracted as of 31/12/2009: EUR  3,999,866 Paid as of 31/12/2009: EUR  2,588,260 || Totals: Committed: EUR  4,600,000 Contracted: EUR  4,597,848

Start Date of Project || 01/05/2010 ||

End Date || 31/10/2011 ||

Context of Instability The International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) has been investigating, prosecuting and adjudicating war crime cases committed in the territory of the former Yugoslavia for more than 15 years, thus accruing an enormous amount of information and specialised skills. With the forthcoming drawdown of the ICTY, it became a pressing obligation to make that body of knowledge and information available to practitioners in the region, to which a large number of investigative files are being handed over and need to be further processed in line with international standards. Assisting the national legal systems in the adjudication of serious violations of international criminal and humanitarian law, to end impunity and to deliver justice to victims, directly supports the establishment of sustainable peace and security in the targeted jurisdictions.   Short Description The War Crimes Justice Project was implemented over a period of 18 months from May 2010 to  October 2011 through a closely co-ordinated and co-operative effort of three organisations with complementary mandates, the OSCE, the ICTY and UNICRI, and in close concert with the legal community in the six jurisdictions of the Western Balkans. All 14 activities undertaken within the framework of the project facilitated the sustainable transfer of knowledge and materials from the ICTY, and elsewhere in the region, to legal and other professionals in the targeted jurisdictions dealing with war crimes cases. Specific objectives of the project comprised the strengthening of national legal systems in the countries still facing war crime caseloads, undertaking capacity-building measures according to best practices and identifying and addressing gaps in the professional capacities of legal practitioners and their resources in a sustainable way, consistent with international standards. Activities and State of Play With over 50 knowledge transfer events gathering around 800 professionals involved in the processing of war crimes cases, including judges, prosecutors, defence lawyers, police investigators, witness and other support staff, the project exceeded the set numbers of target beneficiaries. The project created an environment where counterparts from the region and those from the ICTY frequently came into contact, which generated new and deepened the existing professional as well as personal contacts and networks. By also entrusting local professionals with a role to lead discussion among their peers from other jurisdictions and the ICTY, the project facilitated the establishment of co-operative professional relationships among equals, through which knowledge and information were readily exchanged, also contributing to cross-border confidence building. The project boosted the capacity of local institutions mandated with providing training to legal practitioners by developing and handing over comprehensive training materials on international criminal law and practice. For the first time, these institutions can now avail themselves of a training resource that covers the most recent international jurisprudence related to war crime cases while also covering the elements of law and jurisprudence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia. Local ownership of the process was ensured by selecting participants and topics for these training events in consultation with local counterparts. A wealth of compelling jurisprudence relating to legal concepts of particular relevance to local practitioners, such as command responsibility and various modes of criminal liability, can now be accessed through a number of means tailored to practitioners’ needs. This includes a newly developed e-learning and training portal with a particular emphasis on self-learning and the provision of nearly 20,000 pages of transcripts of witness testimonies given before the ICTY in local languages to the prosecution offices of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia. A total of 64,000 pages were made available in a form that is fully text-searchable and can easily be referenced on-line in ongoing and future investigations. During the project, thirteen institutions in the region responsible for the prosecution, adjudication and defence of war crimes cases as well as with training of legal professionals were able to rely on over 30 legal, research and other support staff, which enhanced their analytical, case-management and research capacity. Given the benefits of this type of support, several institutions decided to keep the staff beyond the close of action. In strengthening the capacity of defence counsel appearing in war crime cases, the project addressed the most pressing needs though the provision of knowledge transfer opportunities, support staff and a manual demonstrating developed practices in defending before the ICTY. Overall, the assistance was tailored to the needs of jurisdictions and participating professionals, using a range of knowledge-transfer techniques rather than a “one size fits all” approach. During the implementation period, the project benefited from the steadily improving atmosphere in overall relations between jurisdictions and among legal professionals in the region. Apart from the limitations on the holders of Kosovo travel documents, the political context did not impinge in any significant way on the implementation. The project was characterised by the overall positive image among the region’s legal professionals and in the local media. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Conflict prevention and post-conflict rehabilitation efforts remain key priorities of the IfS and are intimately linked with concepts such as individualized accountability and justice for war crimes victims. One of the project activities (the Training Curriculum in International Criminal Law and Practice) is being complemented through funding from the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA). Moreover, the project was complementary to and closely coordinated with the large Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) Rule of Law Mission EULEX, which exercises executive powers in the field of war crimes.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Yemen

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Empowering Government and Civil Society in Yemen to Address Mixed Migration (2) Restoration of a stable environment to enable development and democratic consolidation ||

Type of measure || (1) Strengthen comprehensive border management capacity (2) Strengthen law enforcement, counter terrorism legislation and civilian conflict prevention

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 28/07/2009 (2) 13/07/2010

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  2,000,000 Contracted: EUR  2,000,000 Paid: EUR  1,600.000 (2) EUR  15,000,000 Contracted: EUR  12.736.957,68 Paid: 6.470.492,39

Start Date of Project || (1) July 2009 (2) October 2010 (start of first project)

End Date || (1) June 2011 (2) August 2013 (end date of last project)

Context of Instability (1) Inextricably linked with transnational organised crime, the prevalence of irregular migration to and via Yemen – particularly in the highly exploitative context of human trafficking – carries major ramifications for the country's stability and that of the region. Despite the dangers and risks, the number of arrivals in Yemen has been increasing annually with a record high in 2011 when UNHCR recorded 103,154 new arrivals, a 51% increase on the previous year. Due to the steadily increasing numbers of new arrivals and a deteriorating security situation, the Yemeni authorities are re-examining their refugee policy to adopt an ad hoc examination procedure. Throughout 2011, when Yemen's political and security crisis escalated, increasing strains on the country's already limited resources, popular acceptance of refugee groups dwindled and refugee/migrant - community cohesion started to weaken. The political turmoil diverted official attention away from necessary legal and policy reform programmes, which explains the use of systematic detention, deportation and the refusal to investigate claims for asylum as the main means to control the growing number of non-Somali African arrivals throughout 2011. While Yemen has managed to improve its border management, the magnitude of the problem requires increased administrative, regulatory and operational capacity. Frontline agencies have very limited capacity to respond to diverse needs and have poor awareness of the categories of arriving irregular migrants. (2) In 2011, Yemen entered one of the most fragile and insecure situations in its recent history. Before the events of 2011, widespread instability undermined crucial political reforms, jeopardising the development agenda and leading towards greater instability. Prevailing security concerns hampered the consolidation of democracy, weakened the protection of human rights and restricted fundamental freedoms. The current legal framework for the security and law enforcement agencies does not provide sufficient practical guarantees to effectively protect human rights and fundamental freedoms while safeguarding national security. Short Description (1) Implemented by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the project aimed to safeguard national and regional security and to protect the rights of all migrants, including victims of trafficking, by strengthening the capacity of the relevant state institutions and other concerned actors (civil society organisations) to address security and humanitarian issues associated with the massive unregulated influx of vulnerable migrants and asylum seekers. (2) The programme focuses on: (i) supporting the reform of the criminal justice system including the counter-terrorism legal framework; strengthening the Parliament’s and the judiciary’s capacity to ensure the application of laws respecting human rights – UNODC; (ii) improving law enforcement and security by facilitating information exchange and inter-agency cooperation under the Ministry of the Interior; enhancing border controls and operational capacity of state actors – CIVIPOL; and (iii) supporting civil society work on conflict prevention and counter-radicalism at community level.  Activities and State of Play (1) Project implementation formally ended on June 30 2011 in the midst of a fundamental political and security crisis. Despite the extremely difficult operational context, implementation of all formally planned activities was finalised. The project provided an assessment of the legal framework and operational procedures for migration management and improved the protection of vulnerable migrants through targeted training of front-line officials and the provision of basic reception needs. Under this project, IOM conducted the first comprehensive border needs assessment which covers the entire country and resulted in a list of 40 recommendations which have been submitted to the GoY and partially implemented within the project. However, due to the political impasse, the recommendations regarding the legal and policy framework on migration were not discussed by Cabinet of Ministers as the government has only acted in a caretaker function since February 2011. Similarly, the Standard Operating Procedures developed by IOM have not been translated into an operational document. A final evaluation of the programme has been conducted issuing a very positive result.  (2) The political crisis which paralysed Yemen throughout 2011 has had a different impact on each component of this programme. While cooperation with the Yemeni government’s security services has been set aside and suspended (i.e. components i. and ii.), measures strengthening conflict prevention and counter-radicalisation through support to civil society organisations have become ever more important and continued implementation throughout 2011. In three parallel projects on tribal conflict mitigation, the programme is currently targeting the 7 most conflict prone governorates of Yemen (Marib, Shabwa, Amran, Hadramaut, Abiyan, Lahj, al-Jauf and al-Beidha). A fourth project has finalized the scripts for TV and radio series to promote moderation; they should be broadcasted during Ramadan 2012. A fifth project is currently identifying up to 10 Yemeni civil society organisations to benefit from capacity building in order to develop grass-root projects to counter radicalisation. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response (1) By supporting the Yemeni authorities to increase their border management capacity and improve the response to migrants/victims of trafficking, the IfS project bridges the gap between support to good governance and provisions of humanitarian assistance. Results of the border needs assessment provide the basis for future international support in this area. (2) Throughout 2011, when the fragility of state institutions ultimately led to regime change, the genuine strengthening of civil society actors and the communities' resilience to conflict and radicalization has proven to be crucial to overall stabilisation. The support programme for legal and judicial institutions is an enabling step towards institutional capacity building and reflects the EU's long-term cooperation strategy.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Zimbabwe

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support to the implementation of the Global Political Agreement (2)  IFS – Crisis Preparedness Component (Peace-building Partnership) ||

Type of measure || Reconciliation, conflict resolution

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 23/12/2009 (2) 31/03/2010

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  10,500,000 Contracted as of 31/12/2011: EUR  10,498,933.58 Paid as of 31/12/2011: EUR 8,138,692.60 (2) EUR  2,000,000.00 Contracted as of 31/12/2011: EUR 2,000,000.00 Paid as of 31/12/2011: EUR 864,680

Start Date of Project || (1) February 2010 (2) December 2011

End Date || (1) July 2012 (2) December 2013

Context of Instability Political developments in Zimbabwe following the March 2008 general elections exacerbated the social and political crisis in the country, through a violence-ridden period up to the second round of the presidential elections in June 2008 (boycotted by the opposition candidate Morgan Tsvangirai). An already deeply divided Zimbabwean society was left in a state of economic collapse and political crisis with the opposition in command of the House of Assembly and a powerful Presidency with seriously compromised legitimacy. In order to resolve the political deadlock, the parties agreed to return to SADC sponsored, South Africa mediated multiparty negotiations. On 15 September 2008 a power-sharing agreement (the Global Political Agreement, GPA), was signed by the conflicting parties. In February 2009, an Inclusive Government, comprising the three GPA signatory parties (MDC-T, MDC-M, ZANU PF) was established. In 2011, the political situation has remained tense and uncertain. Elections are likely to be held in 2013 when they are legally due. The implementation of the GPA has been mixed, with significant developments on socio-economic recovery but limited progress on political reforms. Despite public feuds between the parties, the Inclusive Government and the newly established institutions have been operating. The GPA process has generated a fragile space for political convergence and dialogue. Zimbabwe's sustainable recovery and full international re-engagement will depend on the extent to which the agreed reforms are effectively implemented ahead of elections, in particular regarding governance-related commitments at political level. Short Description  (1) Support to the implementation of the Global Political Agreement. In June 2009 the European Union re-launched political dialogue with Zimbabwe with the  objective to progressively normalise EU-Zimbabwe relations along the implementation of the reforms foreseen in the GPA, paving the way for peaceful and credible elections. In order to back this process and create the conditions for a full EU re-engagement with Zimbabwe, a Short-Term Transition Strategy (STS) was formulated supporting stabilisation of the Inclusive Government and its reform programme. The STS addresses Zimbabwe’s social recovery as well as concerns on human rights, rule of law and democratic principles. The EUR 10.5 million IfS support package constituted the most urgent elements of this strategy, focussing mainly on the promotion of democratic reforms to prepare the country for credible elections. Limited funds were also used to alleviate threats to public health and ensure the minimal functioning of the health system in 2010 and 2011. This support complemented the humanitarian intervention against the cholera epidemic. (2) Crisis preparedness component – Peace-building partnership It is likely that the upcoming constitutional referendum and elections will once again trigger political polarisation and conflict throughout Zimbabwe. Rural communities were deeply affected by the wave of repression that characterized the 2008 electoral process and the need for reconciliation and healing has repeatedly been indicated by stakeholders as a necessary step ahead of democratic transition.  While there have been civil society-led efforts to provide psychosocial support for victims of violence, legal assistance for redress, and promotion of dialogue between victims and perpetrators, more needs to be done in order to reconcile the various antagonistic groups in the communities and secure healing of victims. This project seeks to break the cycle of violence though the promotion of dialogue between actors traditionally perceived as perpetrators/intimidators, and the  victims of past violence alongside other affected citizens of specific communities.  Activities and State of Play  (1) Support to the implementation of the Global Political Agreement – The GPA sets out a series of reforms and commitments addressing concerns on human rights, rule of law and democratic principles. Their implementation should create the conditions for an open political environment, allowing for genuine elections to be held as a sustainable, unambiguous solution to the current crisis. The IfS programme has provided substantial support to the reforms outlined in the GPA, in particular constitution-making and electoral processes, promotion and monitoring of governance reforms and support to the restoration of the delivery of basic health services. These actions started in 2010 and will carry on until July 2012, placing the EU at the forefront of coordination of donors' support in those areas. (2) Crisis preparedness component–Peacebuilding partnership The contract was signed in December 2011 and 12 national civil society organisations were identified to implement the activity and receive capacity building support on peace-building and conflict mediation through an umbrella organisation specialised in conflict transformation. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response These IfS programmes are part of a broader EU Short Term Strategy, adapting the application of appropriate measures in order to support the implementation of the GPA. This strategy was designed in coordination with the international community, in particular EU Member States, and has strengthened the leading role of the EU in the governance sector. Governance is a critical pillar of the EU's development strategy in Zimbabwe within the present transitional period and will most likely remain a key sector in future EU cooperation. The commitment to reforms enshrined in the Global Political Agreement and the establishment of the Inclusive Government represent a significant step towards a sustainable solution to the Zimbabwe political crisis as well as an unprecedented opportunity to re-establish a constructive relationship between the EU and Zimbabwe. The EU has decided to progressively normalise relations through implementation of the GPA and the preparation of credible and peaceful elections. The programmes funded by the IfS are therefore in line with the scope of appropriate measures adopted by the EU Council Decision on 18 February 2002 on Article 96 of Cotonou and, since June 2009, they are strictly related to the re-launched EU-Zimbabwean political dialogue that formally began following the signature of the GPA.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Laos...... ...................................................................................................................................... 3

Lebanon 5

Libya..... ...................................................................................................................................... 9

Mali....... .................................................................................................................................... 12

Mauritania.................................................................................................................................. 14

Mauritius.................................................................................................................................... 16

Republic of Moldova.................................................................................................................. 18

Myanmar/Burma......................................................................................................................... 21

Nagorno-Karabakh region.......................................................................................................... 23

Nepal.... .................................................................................................................................... 25

Nicaragua................................................................................................................................... 27

Nigeria.. .................................................................................................................................... 29

Occupied Palestinian Territory..................................................................................................... 31

COMMISSION STAFF WORKING DOCUMENT

Accompanying the document

REPORT FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE
EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT, THE COUNCIL, THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE
AND THE COMMITTEE OF THE REGIONS

2011 Annual Report on the
Instrument for Stability

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Laos

Title of IfS Decision || Practical measures to implement a dialogue between the Hmong Diaspora and the Government of Laos (GoL) ||

Type of measure || Reconciliation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 30/07/2009

Amount(s) || EUR  540,839; Contracted: EUR  540,839; Paid: EUR  432,671

Start Date of Project || 30/06/2010

End Date || 31/05/2012

Context of Instability Stemming from the mountainous areas straddling the borders of four countries, (China Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia), the Hmong never felt fully integrated in the nation-states emerging at the end of the colonisation process. As a result, they sometimes sided with colonial powers in the hope to gain future autonomy/independence. US support for the Hmong ceased after its withdrawal from the region in 1975.  Thus, when the communist Pathet Lao overthrew the royalist government, the Hmong became exposed to accusations of treason, leading to a mass exodus of some 300,000 migrants (almost a third of the total Lao Hmong population in the country), mostly to camps in Thailand. In the following years many of the Lao Hmongs settled in the United States (250,000) while others left for  France (15,000) and Australia (2,000). Of the remaining Hmong population between 2,000 and 3,000 people were sent to “re-education camps” whilst others escaped to remote mountain regions in the border areas where loosely organised Hmong militia groups staged attacks against Pathet Lao and Vietnamese troops. Short Description In recent years, the Government of Laos (GoL) has become increasingly eager to find long-lasting solutions and ‘normalise’ relations with the Lao Hmong Diaspora. To this end, the GoL accepted an offer for confidential mediation by the Henry Dunant Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HDC). The mediation was to take place in Switzerland, where representatives from the Government of Laos and the Hmong Diaspora would meet to explore possibilities to end the conflict. The process was planned to be implemented in two phases: A first phase to assess the willingness from both sides to engage in negotiations, and a second phase to establish Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) that may lead to a final agreement. Activities and State of Play (1) The first phase of the project was implemented satisfactorily and both sides agreed to proceed to phase 2 of the project, where concrete Confidence Building Measures were agreed upon. (2) The second phase started in mid-2010. Although some delays were faced at the outset in December 2011, the project succeeded in taking the first-ever official delegation of Diaspora Hmong to Vientiane, meeting with high-level officials (Vice-Ministers, etc.). Representatives of GoL have expressed their satisfaction with this outcome and have signalled a firm intention to continue the engagement through exchanges/activities related to issues of common interest (e.g. health, academic exchanges, education, cultural exchanges, etc). Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This project puts the EU at the heart of the international response in relation to the long-term solution of the Lao Hmong conflict. Since a significant part of the project relates to activities in the US (co-ordination with Diaspora leaders, etc), the EU has kept the US authorities informed of developments.  After seeing the results, the Vietnamese government has signalled an interest in a similar project targeting the Vietnamese Hmong Diaspora.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Lebanon

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Prevent the outbreak of a new conflict in the camps in Lebanon (UNRWA) (2) Study on Governance and Human Security in Palestinian Refugee Camps (Pursue Ltd.) (3a) Support Civil peace and Reconciliation in Lebanon (UNDP) (3b) Addressing the Legacy of Conflict in a divided Society (ICTJ) (4) Emergency support to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) ||

Type of measure || Post-conflict recovery Support to displaced populations Political stabilisation Peace-building & Reconciliation International Justice and Rule of Law.

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || (1) 07/09/2011; (2) 20/04/2011; (3a/b) 02/03/2011; (4) 16/05/2011;

Total Amount(s) || Decisions EUR  21,589,963; Contracted: EUR  21,589,963; Paid: EUR  14,644,135.17

Start Dates of Projects || (1) 01/07/2011; (2) 19/07/2011; (3a) 15/07/2011; (3b) 16/09/2011; (4) 01/08/2011

End Dates of Projects || (1) 31/12/2013; (2) 19/01/2012; (3a) 15/01/2013; (3b) 16/03/2013; (4) 01/08/2012

Context of Instability The legacy of fifteen years of civil war (1975-1990) and subsequent Syrian control (1991-2005) is still being felt in Lebanon, with many conflicts unresolved. Since 2004, tensions have been exacerbated by different events: the wave of political assassinations, including that of Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in 2005; the war with Israel in 2006; and the Nahr el-Bared crisis in 2007 (a conflict between the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Fatah Al-Islam group, resulting in the total destruction of a camp and displacement of approximately 27,000 Palestine refugees). Following the May 2008 events (Hezbollah launching a military operation against Sunni opponents, taking over West Beirut), the Doha Accord provided the backdrop for the current political environment. However, this solution was reached without solving Lebanon's internal contradictions. The consensus-based national unity government formed after the June 2009 parliamentary elections fell at the beginning of 2011, amid tensions surrounding the work of the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), set up to deal with the assassination of former PM Rafiq Hariri. After months of negotiation and political vacuum, a new Hezbollah-led "March 8" government took office in July 2011 which still faces numerous difficulties in passing much needed reforms. 2011 has also been marked by a deteriorating security situation with increased kidnappings in the Beka'a region, attacks on UNIFIL troops in south Lebanon, bomb attacks and explosions (Tripoli, Beirut). Tensions also mounted due to progress in the STL work (release of the first four indictments and decision to proceed with a trial in absentia; internal divisions on the payment of Lebanon's share of  funding for STL’s budget), and the fatal incidents involving Palestinian refugees at the border with Israel on the occasion of the Nakba commemoration in May. Key drivers of conflict, inequality, extreme poverty, marked sub-regional disparities and youth employment remain unaddressed while an absence of representation mechanisms and decent living conditions for Palestinian refugees may also re-emerge as future sources of instability. However, the danger of a spill-over from the conflict in Syria remains the most pervasive risk.  To date, the government has offset this risk by carefully disassociating public discourse from immediate events in Syria while providing effective assistance to displaced Syrian refugees and de-escalating border incidents.  Nevertheless, Lebanon remains highly susceptible to fluctuating regional and international developments, with a direct impact on the local security situation.  National mechanisms set up in times of consensus have failed to address contentious issues in a meaningful manner while societal and political divisions continue to create obstacles to smooth governance, further enhancing exposure to external upheavals To a great extent the legacy of the devastating civil war has yet to be tackled in a meaningful way. Deep-seated sectarian animosities persist and if not properly addressed, will leave Lebanon vulnerable to future political instability and civil strife. Short Description and Objectives 1) "Prevent the outbreak of a new conflict in Palestine refugee camps in Lebanon". This project aimed to diffuse growing tensions and discontent in the Palestinian refugee camps through the provision of adequate shelter to the most vulnerable refugee families living in Lebanon. Living infrastructure was in fact identified as the main source of frustration of Palestine refugees living in the camps. 2) "Identification Study on Governance and Human Security in Palestinian Refugee Camps in Lebanon". As well as being aimed at pre-empting any further destabilisation of the situation in/from Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, this study was commissioned to identify possible areas for policy advice, for support to improve camps governance structures. It also covered the effectiveness of existing mechanisms for Lebanese-Palestinian dialogue, alongside suggestions on how to practically integrate the governance dimension as a cross-cutting issue in the other EU interventions for Palestine refugees in Lebanon. 3a) "Supporting Civil Peace and Reconciliation in Lebanon". The overall objective of this EU-UNDP joint initiative is to reduce the risks of conflict relapse and consolidate domestic peace in Lebanon. It aims to strengthen existing dialogue capacities at local, sub-regional and national levels and to reduce sectarian and communal divides that represent permanent triggers for an internal crisis or full civil conflict. 3b) "Addressing the Legacy of Conflict in a Divided Society". The overall objective of this project is to reduce the risks of recurrence of violence by addressing the legacy of Lebanon’s multiple conflicts. This will be done by producing information to create a better understanding and awareness of the legacy of events since 1975 and the way they impact upon conflict risks today. In this way the project seeks to enable victim groups to reclaim the voice they have not been afforded in the past two decades, without which any enduring, sustainable and legitimate process of addressing the past cannot take place. 4) "Emergency support to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL)". By promoting the rule of law, the Tribunal aims to assist Lebanon to overcome impunity, foster reconciliation and strengthen national stability. IfS support ensures that STL can continue its work in order to fulfil its mandate. Non-core areas of assistance also help guarantee effective communication of the Tribunal's work to the Lebanese public and increase accessibility to the Court's proceedings. Activities and State of Play 1) "Prevent the outbreak of a new conflict in Palestine refugee camps in Lebanon" (UNRWA). An assessment of shelter conditions and prioritisation of shelter to be rehabilitated was conducted in all the camps by a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, architects and social workers. This was followed by the preparation of: architectural drawings for the 736 shelters prioritised for rehabilitation/reconstruction; submission to the Lebanese Army of the requests to enter construction materials into the camps; and preparation of self help agreements with the beneficiaries. Rehabilitation works are scheduled to start in March. Parallel to these activities, rental subsidies have been paid to families displaced from Nahr el Bared for them to secure adequate shelter through renting while the reconstruction of NBC continues. 2) "Identification Study on Governance and Human Security in Palestinian Refugee Camps in Lebanon" (Pursue Ltd.). The Consultancy produced a report on Palestinian governance structures and priorities in Lebanon in general as well as specific for each camp. On this basis, possible entry points were analysed for improving governance in the camps as well as Lebanese-Palestinian dialogue more broadly. A baseline to measure the impact of potential future interventions and to assist in the tracking of governance capacity in the camps over time was also produced. Given the intense stakeholder consultations and thorough qualitative research needed within the camps, a no-cost 3-month extension was granted and the study is to be finalised in the first quarter of 2012. 3a) "Supporting Civil Peace and Reconciliation in Lebanon" (UNDP). The first few months of implementation have seen the start of activities in the project’s areas of work, as follows: choice of the conflict-prone areas to accompany the development of local level conflict-mitigation and  peace-building strategies; establishment of a civil society platform at national level as a mechanism for advocacy and coalition building on issues related to civil peace, dialogue and reconciliation; preparation of activities to promote collective memory and integrate peace building into formal and non-formal educational channels (the first one of which is foreseen to be launched on the anniversary marking the start of the Lebanese Civil War i.e. 13 April); training on conflict-sensitive reporting and production of materials to use alternative media to work on identity issues and diversity management.    3b) "Addressing the Legacy of Conflict in a Divided Society" (ICTJ). A sample mapping of the violations that occurred since 1975, and a survey of victims are the starting points for this action. Given the sensitivity of the issues, delays were encountered in securing a Lebanese institution to undertake such research tasks. In the coming year these will provide the basis to equip decision-makers and civil society representatives with better means and tools to understand victims' needs and expectations in terms of justice and accountability vis-à-vis the violations that have taken place. The ICTJ project will then develop recommendations on policy options for dealing with the past in a manner that is meaningful for a sustainable peace-building process. 4) "Emergency support to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon" (STL). The action has allowed the proper functioning of the Pre-Trial, Trial, and Appeals Chambers, Office of the Prosecutor, Registry, and Defence Office, to continue their operations, even in the absence of the payment of Lebanon's 49% share of funding, which was only received in December. The assistance has also assisted a smooth implementation of the STL communication and outreach strategy. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response In 2011, the focus of IfS support has shifted towards interventions with a greater political added value in terms of support to Lebanon's stabilisation process, in line with the overall EU and international efforts to establish stability and sustainable peace. The IfS continues to support actions on sensitive topics while seeking maximum scope for complementary action with, and transition towards, bilateral programming under the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI). With instability mounting in neighbouring Syria, Lebanon's vulnerability and risk exposure highlights the need to strengthen national structures for emergency response and crisis management. The current situation along the borders will also be carefully monitored.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Libya

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Initial capacity building programme for emerging institutions and civil society in Libya (2) Preventing a major health and social crisis by developing and implementing a National HIV-AIDS Strategy. ||

Type of measure || (1) Post-conflict Recovery (2) Health epidemic prevention

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision ||  (1) 7/6/2011  (2) 17/11/2008

Amount(s) || (1)  EUR  2.000.000 (2) EUR  1.000.000 Contracted:  (1) EUR  1.752.857         (2) EUR  934.400 Paid:             (1) EUR  985.229           (2) EUR  909.189

Start Date of Project || Start dates (1) 23/6/2011       (2) 1/6/2009

End Date || End dates (1) 23/1/2013         (2) 31/5/2011

Context of Instability (1) Inspired by the popular revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt, demonstrations started in Benghazi on 16 February 2011. The brutal response of the security forces fuelled broader civil protest, developing rapidly into a widespread uprising, gradually spreading out from the east of the country (Benghazi, Misrata). Almost since the beginning of the revolution the population in the east experienced a new political environment where they could express their freedom and rights for the first time in 42 years. A Transitional National Council (TNC), based in Benghazi, was created in early March with the self-proclaimed objective of steering Libya during the interim period leading to full liberation from the Gaddafi regime, free elections and the establishment of a constitution. The EU recognised the TNC as a political interlocutor on 11 March, providing a context in which targeted capacity building action in support of civil society and emerging transition institutions could be funded. The meetings convened by HRVP Ashton in Benghazi on 22 May further highlighted the critical need for quick EU intervention to support civil society and institutional actors to cope with the challenges resulting from the popular revolution. Some of the needs identified included leadership development, core skills and expert advice. (2) The political crisis caused by the outbreak of HIV-AIDS infection at the Benghazi paediatric hospital in 2008, and subsequent accusations against Bulgarian medical personnel regarding the cause, highlighted the absence of an appropriate HIV-AIDS policy in Libya and the need for a measured EU intervention to redress the situation. A medical assistance offer was made to the Libyan government as part of a humanitarian assistance package including: i) continued medical assistance to the Benghazi Centre for Infectious Diseases and Immunology; ii) special treatment in EU hospitals of serious cases; and iii) technical assistance to develop a national HIV-AIDS strategy, thus contributing to the de-escalation of the crisis. In the absence of formal agreement on bi-lateral cooperation with Libya, IfS funding was urgently required to support the implementation of the third component of the EU medical assistance in order to fully deliver on the EU's  humanitarian and political commitment in this regard. Short Description (1) The project aims to provide urgent assistance to Libyan civil society organisations and TNC entities to play an effective part in the ongoing transition process and the deep reforms it will entail, focusing on leadership training, organisational and management skills being given to managers and other personnel, including women and young people, within the emerging interim institutions and civil society. (2) The action aimed to prevent a major HIV/AIDS health and social crisis in the absence of an appropriate national prevention and treatment policy by supporting the implementation of a National HIV/AIDS Strategy in cooperation with national and provincial authorities as well as those living with HIV/AIDS. Activities and State of Play (1) Based in Benghazi since July 2011, the project designed and delivered a range of courses to improve the leadership and management skills of civil society and interim authority actors. There was a particular focus on young leaders of 25-30 years and those engaged in the delivery of essential public services, helping them assume their new roles by providing specialist technical advice and training. Participants came from across Libyan society including non-governmental organisation leaders and volunteers, public service officials, women’s organisations, media groups and other civic-based organisations. Since November 2011, activities have been extended to Dernah, Tripoli and Al Bayda to meet growing demand for skills and human capacity development. By year end, 470 participants had benefitted, of whom 40% were women. The project has also proven to be a valuable tool to diagnose the rapidly-shifting civil society environment in Libya. (2) Due to the major disruptions caused by the revolution and subsequent civil war, the project ended prematurely in February 2011, rather than in May, as was foreseen. Despite considerable operational obstacles, it managed to develop a draft National HIV/AIDS Strategy in cooperation with national authorities albeit without a budget or defined monitoring and evaluation provisions. It also analysed the first set of data from a Bio-Behavioural Sentinel Study (BBSS) from Tripoli; those envisaged for Benghazi, Sabha, Misurata and Kofra having to be abandoned. Reliable BBSS data was compiled for only one city with reference to only two risk groups – intravenous drug users and MSM (men having sex with men) with much of its policy relevance overturned by the events since February 2011. The Strategy was not shared with nor approved by the Libyan Government and as such, remains a first draft for further discussion with the new post-Gadaffi democratic authorities. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response (1) The project is one of the main EU activities aimed at strengthening and reinforcing civil society in Libya and improving public service delivery in the wake of a violent revolution and difficult transition. Its rapid deployment in May 2011 enabled the EU to secure a credible position as a partner in Libya's reconstruction and democratisation effort. It forms part of a wider EU contribution to the latter in the framework of the Libya Coordinated Needs Assessment (LCNA) agreed to by the EU and other international donors at the Paris Conference in September 2011.   (2) This project formed part of a specific EU action, ongoing since 2005, in support of the Benghazi Centre for Infectious Diseases and Immunology, providing medical treatment to HIV patients and technical advice and training to the medical staff of the Centre at a cost of EUR  6.5 million. In the absence of a framework for bi-lateral cooperation with Libya under the European Neighbourhood Partnership Instrument (ENPI) in 2008, the IfS was the only EU instrument able to provide a timely and effective response to this political and humanitarian imperative. As the project formed part of EU cooperation with Libya before 2011, its alignment with current EU strategy towards Libya is difficult to place though the TNC authorities have indicated an interest in resuming discussions on the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Mali

Title of IfS Decision || Special Programme for Peace, Security and Development of North Mali (PSPSDN), ||

Type of measure || Restore State presence in the region

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 11/04/2011

Amount(s) || EUR  4,000,000 Contracted: EUR  3,961,350 Paid: EUR  2,336,776,80

Start Date of Project || 01/03/2011 (retroactive)

End Date || 31/08/2012

Context of Instability The north of Mali has become a transit area for all kinds of trafficking (human beings, drugs and weapons) and a safe haven for terrorist groups. The level of insecurity is fundamentally linked to the very limited presence of the state administration in these vast and arid territories in the north of the country. In this context, the Malian authorities have stepped up efforts to restore the effective presence and authority of the State's civilian administration in the north through strengthening police, army and border control through the Special Programme for Peace, Security and Development of North Mali (PSPSDN). The return from Libya to Mali of heavily armed, well commanded and combat-hardened Touareg, the unsteady approach of the Malian government to the complexity of the issues in the North and the lack of commitment (as perceived by the Touareg rebels) to meet the terms of the 2006 peace settlement as well as the earlier Algiers agreement have exacerbated tensions and created a new crisis in the North of Mali. The evaluation of the situation and formulation of the Instrument for Stability (IfS) crisis-response programme took place before the outbreak of the Touareg rebellion, which started in January 2012 in the North of Mali, and the coup d'état  of the 23rd of May 2012. Short Description This IfS intervention supports the PSPSDN programme of the Malian government, which is also co-funded by other international donors, including some EU Member States. It aims to help combat growing insecurity linked to criminal and terrorist activities and the socio-economic grievances aired by local communities through re-establishing an effective presence of the civilian administration in the North of Mali. Activities and State of Play To reduce the causes of instability in the country the Programme had initially foreseen the following activities: Reinforcement of the national security set up in the northern regions; Improvement of governance in the northern regions through a better functioning of the State Administration and of local authorities; Promotion of economic and social development activities in the northern regions; and Information, awareness raising and participation of the local population on issues related to security threats. The implementation of this project has been seriously affected by the increasing insecurity in the north of Mali and, following attacks on two project locations, the PSPSDN programme was suspended by the Government of Mali in February 2012. The incidents which increased the security concerns and enabled the project implementation occurred before the outbreak of the Toureg rebellion which confirmed the risks. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The Sahel region is facing multiple challenges in terms of extreme poverty, the effects of climate change, frequent food crises, rapid population growth, fragile governance, corruption, internal tensions and conflicts, the risk of violent extremism and radicalisation, illicit trafficking of different kinds (notably drugs) and terrorist-linked security threats. The problems in the Sahel are cross-border and closely intertwined. In a few regions the inter-dependence between security and development is more obvious. Against this backdrop, the EU prepared an EU Strategy for Security and Development in the Sahel, presented to the Foreign Affairs Council (FAC) in March 2011. The primary focus of the Strategy in its initial phase is on the so-called four "pays du champ", namely Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Algeria (the latter primarily for the political/diplomatic aspects), articulated around four particular lines of action: (i) development, good governance and internal conflict resolution; (ii) political and diplomatic; (iii) security and rule of law; (iv) countering violent extremism and radicalisation. A Senior Coordinator for the EU Sahel Strategy has been appointed and a Sahel Task Force, involving the European External Action Service (EEAS), relevant Commission services and the Counter-Terrorism Coordinator (EU CTC) was set up. The support to the PSPSDN falls within the plan of action of the Sahel Strategy.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Mauritania

Ti tle of IfS Decision || Border management support in Mauritania ||

Type of measure || Border management

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 14/12/2010

Amount(s) || EUR  1,220,000 Contracted: EUR  1,220,000; paid: EUR  708,352

Start Date of Project || 09/03/2011

End Date || 08/09/2012

Context of Instability In recent years, there has been rising insecurity in Mauritania. Its territory has been used by Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) as a theatre of operations and, since 2005, Mauritania has faced terrorist threats, kidnappings, attacks and killings. Moreover, due to the country's geographic location and the vastness of its territory, migration and illegal trafficking (human trafficking, cigarettes, drugs and small weapons) constitute important sources of insecurity. Although there is no clear proof, many of these activities have been linked to AQIM. An attempt to carry out a major terrorist attack took place in early February 2011. Mauritanian security forces were able to prevent the attack, capturing and killing several suspected AQIM members. The alleged target of the attack was Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz. The Mauritanian Government has shown a strong political commitment to combat security threats and has taken several actions to secure its porous border and control the movement of persons. These efforts have been further accentuated due to the recent regional unrest, notably the conflict in northern Mali. A Mauritanian governmental decree stipulates that, while free movement will remain for nationals of the sub-region, 45 designated posts along the country's borders are the exclusive points of passage to enter Mauritanian territory. Short Description This measure will support the Mauritanian authorities in combating growing insecurity linked to criminal and terrorist activities by helping them to enhance their territorial surveillance capacities. It aims to strengthen the operability of priority land border posts and airports managed by the Mauritanian border police. The scope of work involves new construction and renovation works, the provision of equipment as well as expertise and training on border management. The project also foresees upgrading of the border management information system and the interconnection of the border posts through a centralised data management system. Activities and State of Play All contracts necessary for the construction/renovation and equipment have been signed. The delivery and installation of equipment has commenced. Renovation and border post construction will be completed by the third quarter of 2012. A training-for-trainers program is currently being prepared with the aim to support an in-house training facility for border police within the Directorate for Territorial Surveillance. To optimise the impact of border management reform, further action is needed to promote border cooperation and harmonisation of standards and practices with neighbouring countries. A program of sensitisation of illegal immigration at the border village level will help detect and deter illicit border crossings. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The action is in line with the EU's Strategy for Security and Development in the Sahel, which is also addressing long-term needs in the area of migration management.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Mauritius

Title of IfS Decision || Support to the trial and related treatment of piracy suspects in Mauritius ||

Type of measure || Support to prosecution, police, judicial and prison services

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 17 June 2010

Amount(s) || Contracted: as at 31.12.2011: EUR 1,080,000 Paid: as at 31.12.2011: EUR 548,574

Start Date of Project || 20.8.2011

End Date || 19.2.2013

Context of Instability Combating piracy along some of the world’s major shipping routes off the Horn of Africa is a high priority for the countries of the region as well as the wider international community. Apart from the impact on overall security, the disruption of trade caused by the piracy crisis is damaging the already fragile economies of countries in the region. The EU is actively engaged in the fight against piracy through the CSDP naval operation EU-NAVFOR Atalanta, contributing to the protection of vulnerable sea vessels and the deterrence, prevention and repression of acts of piracy and armed robbery off the Somali coast. The Government of Mauritius has indicated its willingness to prosecute pirates, while acknowledging the limited human and other resources available in the country. In October 2010, Mauritius hosted the Second Regional Ministerial Conference on Piracy, in which the regional strategy and action plan were adopted. On 14 July 2011, the Government of Mauritius and the European Union signed an agreement defining the conditions and the modalities for the transfer of suspected pirates for investigation, prosecution, trial and detention in Mauritius, transfer of associated property seized and the treatment of such suspects. This is the third such transfer agreement that the EU has signed, after Kenya and the Seychelles. Short Description IfS assistance aims to provide targeted support to Mauritius’s prosecution, police, judicial and prison services, with a particular focus on helping to overcome capacity and logistical constraints associated with trying and detaining piracy suspects. Activities and State of Play The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), EU implementing partner for the anti-piracy projects in Kenya and the Seychelles, is also implementing the project in Mauritius. This project has implemented and made provisions for the following activities (as the actions related to courts can only be completed when Mauritius accepts its first piracy suspects): · Legislative review and assistance with amendments to legislation; · Support to the Police/Coast Guard, including mentoring and investigative assistance for the Police, counter-piracy training for the Police and Coast Guard and police support to piracy investigations; · Support to Prosecutors and the Attorney General’s Office, including legal research and materials, production of handover guidance, attendance at international piracy meetings and exposure to trials in other jurisdictions; · Support to Courts, including witness expenses, interpreters, transcript/voice recognition, additional court security, and legal representation for suspects at trial; · Support to the Prison Service, including developing a master plan for use of Mauritius’s existing prison capacity, legislative framework, and training and assistance to prison staff and management and; · Support to regional learning exchanges. Mauritius’s National Assembly passed the Piracy and Maritime Violence Bill, on 13 December 2011. The Government of Mauritius has informed the EU it will be ready to implement the transfer agreement as of 1 June 2012. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This IfS action complements the EU’s CSDP anti-piracy naval operation Atalanta and the wider efforts of the EU and the international community to tackle the piracy problem in the Gulf of Aden. However, Mauritius’s contribution to the joint fight against piracy is restricted by its limited capacities. It is important that EU Member States, the UNODC and other international actors continue and build on the initial measures addressing some of Mauritius’ short-term needs. Mauritius will also benefit from the implementation of the Eastern and Southern African and Indian Ocean region's strategy on maritime security endorsed in 2010 and supported by the EU. This strategy involves five regional organisations plus the affected countries, establishing a comprehensive approach to fight piracy and to improve maritime security.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Republic of Moldova

Title of IfS Decision || Democracy Support and Confidence- Building Measures (CBMs) ||

Type of measure || Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 09/09/2009

Amount(s) || EUR  6,000,000 Contracted: EUR  6,000,000 (CBMs: EUR 2,000,000) Paid: EUR  5,275,700   (CBMs: EUR 1,875,700)

Start Date of Project || Implementation completed

End Date || 30/06/2011 (extended until 31/12/2011)

Context of Instability Since Romania’s accession to the European Union in 2007, the Republic of Moldova (‘Moldova’) shares a common border with the EU. Moldova’s leadership declared its desire to join the EU but efforts to resolve the dispute with the breakaway region of Transnistria have failed so far and the country requires more domestic reforms. The electoral campaign for the April 2009 parliamentary elections was marked by police and judicial harassment of the opposition and State-media bias. It revealed a deep political crisis and the country’s political fragility, adding to its economic weakness and geopolitical vulnerability. A new coalition resulted from the early parliamentary elections of August 2009 and November 2010 and launched an ambitious reform agenda. However, political instability still remains, as illustrated by the 917 days it took to the Parliament to elect a new President. An additional challenge stems from the protracted conflict over Transnistria, marked by a strong mistrust between the two sides of the Nistru/Dniestr river, following the 1990's conflict, and by two decades of divergent development paths. This permanence of the conflict prevents full fledged development of Moldova in its territorial integrity, while maintaining a "grey zone" with unspecified risks in terms of organised crime, smuggling and trafficking. Following the December 2011 "presidential elections" in the Transnistrian region, a new generation has come to power, giving rise to hopes of a closer dialogue between Tiraspol and Chisinau. Short Description Democracy Support Programme - This IfS project responded to the crisis that followed the highly disputed elections of April 2009. It aimed to contribute to the restoration of Moldova’s political stability and democratic credentials. The Programme covered different areas of intervention, notably a) bringing the national legislation into compliance with European standards, in particular as related to the judiciary, the reform of the prosecution service, the penitentiary and the police, b) reinforcement of the institutional and operation systems for the prevention of torture and ill-treatment, c) strengthening pre-trial guarantees in the course of the criminal procedure, d) capacity building of the Ombudsman institution, e) capacity building of the broadcasting regulatory authority and the public broadcasting company Teleradio Moldova, f) enhancing capacity of apparatus of the Moldovan Parliament and of its Standing Committees and g) advice to the Parliamentary investigation commission into the events of April 2009.  Confidence-Building Measures - The Confidence-Building Measures project addressed as a priority the needs of vulnerable communities, with a specific focus on the Transnistrian region of Moldova, around three main areas: Business Development; Communities Empowerment; and Civil Society Organisations (including capacity building), aiming to promote local development and technical cooperation between the two banks of the Nistru/Dniestr river, and ''reintegration" of the Transnistrian region into Moldovan economy and infrastructure networks. The project initiated sustainable partnerships between economic actors, specialists, NGOs and local authorities from the two banks of the river, and contributed to create a more favourable environment for a future political settlement of the conflict. Activities and State of Play Democracy Support Programmme - This component covered the following areas: Legislative assessment, accountability for Human Rights violations, safeguarding pre-trial guarantees, support to the development of a pluralist media, support to the Parliament of Moldova, promoting broad society participation and facilitating police dialogue. The Programme contributed to drawing up policy documents and new legislation with regard to reforms in the internal affairs, judicial and criminal justice sectors, including the Strategy for Justice Sector Reform and the concept of the reorganisation of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Moreover, the Programme provided significant input in view of strengthening the capacity of the national authorities to combat torture and ill-treatment, by equipping the newly established unit to combat torture within the Prosecutor General's Office and by training policemen and prosecutors involved in anti-torture investigations. An important part of the Programme's activities was dedicated to the mass media, in particular through support to the Audiovisual Coordinating Council and by helping the public broadcaster Teleradio Moldova to improve the quality of its TV and radio programmes and enhance its impartiality in covering political and social issues in a balanced, neutral and informative manner.   Confidence Building Measures - This component, implemented by the UNDP, provided concrete assistance in the following fields: business development, social, health and environmental projects and civil society development.  Important progress has been registered as a result of EU expertise, notably in the transport sector, with the resumption of the railway connection between Odessa, Tiraspol and Chisinau. In the business area, joint working visits to new EU member states took place in April-May 2011 involving entrepreneurs from the textile, business support and agricultural sectors from both banks of the river. Two economic roundtables, promoting exchanges of experience, notably in the context of upcoming negotiations on a Deep and Comprehensive Free trade Area (DCFTA) between the EU and Moldova, were organised. Three "business schools" for students and entrepreneurs were created on the left bank of the river, hosting lecturers from right-bank Moldova and contributing to the economic rapprochement of the two sides. In the health and social sectors, joint training led to improved cooperation and better services for local communities. A small-grant scheme was created to bring Moldovan and Transnistrian NGOs together to work on joint initiatives in the areas of environment protection and reproductive health, and set a platform for cooperation beyond the completion of the IfS Programme. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This IfS project has supported the strategic EU policy goal of upholding Moldova’s democratic transition and European orientation. In addition, despite the continuing political crisis, the project has played an important role in providing support to the Moldovan authorities in designing a strategy for the justice sector reform and set the ground for future EU assistance under the Budget Support operation for Justice Sector Reform in Moldova. With regard to the conflict in Transnistria, the Instrument for Stability contribution paved the way for closer synergy between assistance on the ground and the technical negotiations on country reintegration (notably on telecommunications, transports), including at a high political level, through the "5+2” negotiations on conflict settlement (these negotiations officially resumed in December 2011). Based on this success, in early 2012 the EU launched a EUR 13 million Confidence Building Measures package under the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument and established itself in a central role of donor coordination on confidence-building measures, at country level.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Myanmar/Burma

Title of IfS Decision || Support to civil society initiatives on democracy and media ||

Type of measure || Capacity Building Support

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 26/06/2009

Amount(s) || EUR  2,150,000;Contracted: EUR  1,998,228; Paid: EUR  1,557,054

Start Date of Project || Various, earliest on 08/2009

End Date || Various, latest 06/2012

Context of Instability Under autocratic rule since 1962, Myanmar (Burma) has, for decades, been considered one of the most repressive and isolated states in Asia. The country has seen a series of failed attempts to initiate and manage a transition from military to civilian rule and to stabilise the country. Economic mismanagement has led to a dire economic situation while ethnicity based armed unrest became a paramount concern for the military leaders. In this context, the announcement by the Government of Myanmar to hold national elections in 2010 presented both a challenge and an opportunity for the international community. The November 2010 elections, held after the approval of a new constitution in 2008, led to the installation of a new, civilian government that began implementing an ambitious political and economic reform agenda in April 2011.   The current reforms are unprecedented, with considerable progress in the respect for human rights (e.g. release of political prisoners, easing of media censorship, establishment of a national Human Rights Commission), in the inclusive dialogue between Government and opposition (participation of the National League for Democracy in the by-elections on 1 April 2012) and in addressing structural poverty. With the efforts to open up Myanmar society, instability and uncertainty increase and the Government of Myanmar needs the initial assistance of the international community to define and implement a comprehensive reform agenda. Short Description To benefit from the nascent window for greater political breathing space, five projects were signed in the third quarter of 2009 to help build capacity of civil society as agents of change in the run-up to the 2010 elections and beyond. An additional project to strengthen elected pro-democracy members of parliament and political parties started after the elections. Activities and State of Play Four of the five projects, addressing issues such as support to civil society, ethnic minorities, and free media, concluded their activities in 2011 and the results have been highly satisfactory despite a difficult environment. They succeeded in delivering leadership and political capacity building, in providing training in journalism, disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) and assistance for ethnic minority leaders abroad. The fifth project, to provide capacity building to elected MPs, will conclude in late 2012. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Earlier IfS funding to Myanmar went to the good offices of the UN Special Envoy which enhanced policy dialogue on Myanmar between the UN and the EU. Complementing these public diplomacy channels, in 2008, the IfS provided support to a widely distributed report mapping conflicts in the country (including the ethnic dimension) and a parallel informal dialogue through the Finnish peace-building NGO Crisis Management Initiative (CMI) led by former President Martti Ahtisaari. In addition to the IfS programme, the EU is implementing further democratisation support measures by non-State actors in Myanmar through the European Initiative for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) and support of NGOs through the Non-State Actors thematic instrument. The IfS is currently developing a new action to urgently strengthen the capacity of the Government and other key actors in steering the reform process, notably in the areas of economic reform and reconciliation with ethnic minorities, in coordination with EU Member States and the rest of the international community.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Nagorno-Karabakh
region

Title of IfS Decision || The European Partnership for the Peaceful Settlement of the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh ||

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 05/08/2009

Amount(s) || (3) EUR  2.000.000 (out of EUR  10.000.000) Contracted: EUR  2.000.000 Paid: EUR  1.770.000

Start Date of Project || 01/06/2010

End Date (final date for contracting) || 01/12/2011

Context of Instability Negotiations over Nagorno-Karabakh in the Minsk Group under the auspices of the OSCE are not yielding the expected results, and peace-building attempts are being systematically politicised. There are rare contacts between the divided communities and violent incidents occur regularly. Apart from the IfS project described here, there are very few initiatives in place from international NGOs to support and strengthen civil society. Short Description The objective of this project is, in partnership with local and civil political actors, to enact initiatives which will cumulatively contribute to a peaceful settlement over Nagorno-Karabakh. The project focuses on three areas: i) increase capacity of a range of mass media groups, as well as alternative media sources, to provide balanced and challenging media coverage which reduces attitudinal barriers to progressing conflict resolution; ii) strengthen the capacity of conflict affected groups to engage in conflict resolution processes, contributing to the cumulative growth of a critical mass of social groups actively engaged in the peace process; and iii) facilitate an inclusive and effective public policy environment in support of a negotiated settlement. Activities and State of Play The IfS is currently the only EU assistance instrument operating in Nagorno-Karabakh. Despite initial concerns and objections, expressed mostly by the Armenian Government, the project managed to achieve its goals through a wide variety of activities: publications on conflict related issues; fostering the discussion on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and conflict settlement process in social networks; production and screening of a documentary film; conducting peace-building training and workshops; conducting comparative conflict studies and visits; training of journalists; exhibitions and events; public policy discussions; and advocacy and dialogue with governmental and other stakeholders, including the EU. The project came to an end in December 2011. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The EPNK programme of confidence building on Nagorno-Karabakh is the only concrete EU activity that addresses the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. It works at the levels of civil society and the community. It complements the EU’s formal political support to negotiations within the Minsk Group. Alongside increased engagement with the countries of the South Caucasus at the bilateral and multilateral levels within the Eastern Partnership, an active supporting role to the peaceful settlement of the NK conflict is relevant.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Nepal

Title of IfS Decision || Programme to Support the Peace Process in Nepal || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation, Regional Peace building Capacity

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 19/12/2008

Amount(s) || EURO 5,950,000  Contracted: EURO 5,500,000     Paid: EURO 2.500.000

Start Date of Project || 8/2009

End Date || 12/2012

Context of Instability After more than a decade of insurgency, Nepal witnessed a return to democracy when King Gyanendra was forced to capitulate in April 2006 in face of mass protests, paving the way for the start of the peace process. Parliament was reconvened and the mainstream seven-party alliance set out to implement a roadmap to democracy – including the promulgation of an Interim Constitution in 2007 and the election of a Constituent Assembly (CA) in 2008 to rewrite the Constitution in line with the parties' agreement with the Maoists. The drafting of the new Constitution has been delayed several times, in particular due to disagreement on three major issues: federalism, form of the executive and electoral system. It is now fixed for the 27th of May 2012. In the meantime, there has been some progress on the issue of rehabilitation and integration of the former Maoist Army combatants.  Those who did not opt for integration have received voluntary retirement cash packages and integration into the Nepal Army is likely to occur in the near future. The much needed political consensus between the political parties in the CA nevertheless remains an important challenge and the international community retains an important role in the peace process.    Short Description The overall objective of the project is to contribute to the consolidation of the fragile peace process in Nepal by supporting, through the multi-donor Nepal Peace Trust Fund (NPTF), the successful implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA). Its specific objectives are to provide for Promotion of Security and Transitional Justice; Support to Constituent Assembly; Elections and Peace building initiatives at national and local levels; Cantonment management and integration/re-integration of Maoist Combatants; Reconstruction of public infrastructure; and Assistance to Conflict Affected Persons/ Communities.     Activities and State of Play NPTF supported activities are grouped under four clusters: (1) Cantonment Management and Rehabilitation of Combatants; (2) Conflict Affected Persons and Communities; (3) Security and Transnational Justice; (4) CA and Peace Building initiatives at national and local levels. Support to reconstruction of public infrastructure is seen as a cross cutting theme across supported sectors. (1) Support to Cantonment Management and Rehabilitation of Combatants: A total of 20 projects are financed by NPTF. Areas of support range from construction and maintenance of physical infrastructure including access and internal roads, temporary residential buildings, communication and provision of essential services such as health, sanitation, water supply, electricity, alternate energy sources and communication facilities to the Maoist ex-combatants. (2) Conflict Affected Persons and Communities: Two new rehabilitation centres for conflict affected persons are being opened in addition to the ongoing special programme to rehabilitate Internally Displaced Persons. (3) Security and Transitional Justice: After the NPTF had supported the Government’s efforts to draw up and implement a strategy to remove mines and raise awareness of them, the UN, on the 14th of June 2011, declared Nepal free of landmines. A project to reconstruct police units that were damaged during the conflict entered into its second phase. (4) CA and Peace Building Initiatives at National and Local Levels: A total of 14 projects are financed. Seven projects (including one ongoing) are with the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN), which supported successful conclusion of the CA elections/bi-elections. The Election project focuses on developing a fair and credible voter roll with photographs for more effective, accurate and transparent civil registration during elections. Other projects include public consultation for constitution making to Constituent Assembly Secretariat (CAS) and three projects on institutional development and capacity building of the Peace Fund Secretariat. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The EU encourages political stability and multiparty democracy in Nepal. Several Member States (UK, Finland, Germany and Denmark) contribute to the NPTF. EU development cooperation with Nepal aims to contribute also to peace and stability in the country. The EU Country Strategy Paper (2007-2013) supports stability and peace building activities, Education for all, trade facilitation and economic capacity building. This includes follow-on support of 22 M euro to the NPTF to extend and continue the Peace Process in Nepal.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programme in

Nicaragua

Title of IfS Decision || Programme of Support for Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Areas Affected by Hurricane FELIX in Nicaragua ||

Type of measure || Post-Disaster Recovery

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 10/06/2008

Amount(s) || EUR  7,490,000 Contracted: EUR  7,450,000 Paid: EUR  7,449,981.17 Euros

Start Date of Project || 03/01/2009

End Date || 28/02/2011

Context of Instability Political relations between the EU and Nicaragua have been shaped by the San José Dialogue that was launched in 1984. The EU also supported the Esquipulas Process aiming to restore peace to the region and to Nicaragua through a negotiated solution to the armed conflicts. Nicaragua is a signatory to the 2003 Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement and will become a signatory to the 2012 Association Agreement between Central America and the EU.  Nicaragua is the biggest country in Central America but its GDP per capita is the second lowest in the Americas. At least 42.5% of its 5.8 million inhabitants live in poverty with 14.6% in extreme poverty. Persistent structural problems and recurrent natural disasters create a vulnerable economy, dependent on external aid and remittances from migrants. Natural phenomena such as El Niño in 1997, hurricane Mitch in 1998 and hurricane Felix in 2007 were some of the more recent natural disasters that affected the country. Short Description The programme supported the social and economic recovery of communities in Nicaragua’s North Atlantic Autonomous Region (RAAN) that were severely affected by Hurricane Felix on 4 September 2007. This action links the relief phase, for which the Commission provided EUR 6 million through Directorate General ECHO and the longer-term reconstruction and development of the affected areas. The intervention under the Instrument for Stability (IfS) in Nicaragua aimed at promoting socio-economic stability in Nicaragua and providing for early recovery after hurricane FELIX, thus ensuring effective links between Relief, Rehabilitation and Development in the context of earlier DG ECHO interventions. It further promoted the sustainable recovery of critical water sanitation infrastructure, livelihoods and income generation assets. Activities National and local authorities and local civil society organisations identified water and sanitation as one of the main priorities for the affected population. Although some of DG ECHO's interventions were targeting this sector, these were geared to resolving the situation in the short term. A second identified priority was the rehabilitation of the livelihoods of the affected population. Therefore, a response more focused on the rehabilitation of agricultural and fishery-based livelihoods and the re-establishment of income generation was identified in order to facilitate the return of the affected population to pre-Felix conditions. The action was implemented through the UNDP. State of Play The main programme activities were completed by 31 January 2011. The activities were found to have had a high acceptance by the communities they were meant to serve, in part due to their close involvement from the start. A notable impact on the livelihoods of poor people and local economies more broadly was also highlighted. High-level authorities both from the Nicaraguan and from the European side took part in closing events.   Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response From the beginning, one of the main focuses of the programme was ensuring complementarities with ECHO interventions and other programmes to successfully link relief and development efforts. Synergies with the actions of other programmes and donors were successfully exploited, for example through the sharing of resources and information with Eurosolar, the strengthening of the Drinking Water and Sanitation roundtable bringing together donors, civil society and regional authorities. The approach that was used continues to influence the design of new actions, in particular in the water sector.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Nigeria

Title of IfS Decision || Support to community level conflict resolution and reintegration of ex-militants to promote stability in the Niger Delta region || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Peacebuilding, Reconciliation and Reintegration

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 11 August 2011

Amount(s) || EUR 5,800,000 Contracted: EUR  5,347,101 Paid: EUR  962,478

Start Date of Project || 13.12.2011

End Date || 12.06.2013

Context of Instability Since 1975, the oil produced in the Niger Delta has accounted for a large part of Nigeria’s export earnings, yet it remains one of the most under-developed regions in Nigeria. It is generally understood that the crisis in the Niger Delta, which is home to an estimated 20 million people, results from a deep-seated sense of neglect and marginalization of the region’s residents by the government, as well as a high economic dependency of the population on oil production as a result of the destruction of alternative livelihoods through environmental pollution. 70% of the population still live below the poverty line. Over the last several decades local groups have advocated for a greater share of oil proceeds through both non-violent advocacy and armed struggle. Militias have carried out attacks on oil production infrastructures, oil company employees, and have tapped pipelines, a practice known as ‘illegal bunkering’. The instability created by these militant groups and the abundance of small arms have provided an opportunity for quite a large number of loosely organized ethnic and private militias, secret society groups, and bandits to emerge in the region, preying on oil companies as well as on ordinary citizens. Despite a paucity of reliable data, a study commissioned by the Government of the Delta State in 2007 identified forty-eight (48) armed groups in Delta State alone, including more than 25,000 members and an arsenal of 10,000 weapons. These numbers illustrate the dimension of the conflict, and demonstrate the complexity of any problem-solving strategy. In August 2010, the Presidential Amnesty Committee was established and an Amnesty Programme went into effect nationwide. While the Amnesty Programme provides a critical opportunity to reduce violence in the region, it has numerous flaws in its long-term sustainability. The programme does not create livelihood and economic growth opportunities. It also places little to no emphasis on resolving old grievances, supporting reintegration, or facilitating reconciliation and healing within communities. As all of these elements are essential for the Niger Delta to turn from the path of violence, it remains a highly volatile region. Short Description In order to support the long-term stability and results of the Amnesty and Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration processes in the Niger Delta, this action focuses on three specific objectives: 1) to support community conflict resolution and reconciliation in 6 ‘trend-setting’ areas in the three core Niger Delta States; 2) to leverage changes in these ‘trend setting’ communities to influence conflict dynamics across the Niger Delta region and 3) to facilitate access to information and dialogue inclusive of marginalised and alternative voices in the Niger Delta. Target groups are ex-militants, community residents including women, youth, leaders and elders, as well as security forces. Activities include trainings in conflict transformation for community residents, women, youth and security forces and psychotherapy and rehabilitation ("trauma healing"), establishing of community radio stations and training of journalists as well as media activities such as drama production and broadcast, news and features. These activities should help to reduce barriers to reintegration and community healing and to create a collective, inclusive vision of reconciliation and a peaceful co-existence in the future in the whole Niger Delta region. The activities will also focus on strengthening the capacity for conflict prevention and establish an early warning system as well as new channels of information and dialogue, for marginalised groups, such as women and youth in particular. Activities and State of Play The project started at the end of 2011 and the grant beneficiary, Search for Common Ground, an international NGO, has been involved in recruiting staff, setting up an office in Port Harcourt, the main city of the Niger Delta, and establishing a structured legal basis with its implementing partners. Full operational activities are expected to commence in the first quarter of 2012 following a baseline study carried out in the communities concerned. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS action is complementary to the EU's up-coming Niger Delta Support Programme funded by the EDF, which includes activities generating economic growth.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Occupied
Palestinian Territory

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Gaza Post-conflict Early Recovery (2) Third Facility for urgent actions involving Policy Advice, Technical Assistance, Mediation and Reconciliation (Middle East Process I) (3) Fourth Facility for urgent actions involving Policy Advice, Technical Assistance, Mediation, Reconciliation and other areas of assistance (Middle East Process II) (4) Socio-economic stabilisation support package for the Gaza Strip (5) Support for the upgrading of Kerem Shalom crossing point || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Post-Conflict Recovery, Reconciliation and Mediation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 5/6/2009, amended 21/12/2009 (2) 5/8/2009 (3) 17/6/2010, amended 17/12/2010 (4) 12/9/2011 (5) 20/12/2011

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  20m / Contracted: 19,646,092 / Paid: 18,324,873.60 (2) EUR  0,5m for 2 projects / Middle East Process I/ Contracted: 498,060 / Paid: 415,644 (3) EUR  1,2 m for 2 projects / Middle East Process II/ Contracted: 1,2 / Paid: 823,440 (4) EUR  25m / Contracted: EUR  0m (5) EUR  13m /  Contracted: EUR  0m

Start Date of Project || (1) UNRWA: 17/7/2009; UNMAS: 11/10/2010 (2) Chatam House: 7/6/2010; Toledo Centre: 8/6/2010 (3) Political Security Centre: 14/12/2010; SFCG: 14/12/2010 (4) March 2012 (5) March 2012

End Date || (1) UNRWA: 17/7/2010; UNMAS: 1/01/2011 (2) Chatam House: 8/12/2011; Toledo Centre: 8/1/2012 (3) Political Security Centre: 31/08/2012; SFCG: 14/06/2012 (4) March 2015 (5) September 2013

Context of Instability The EU has a longstanding engagement in the Middle East peace process with the aim of supporting a two-state solution: the State of Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous and viable State of Palestine, living side by side in peace and security. It has therefore supported the PA in building the institutions of the future state. Currently there is little progress to report in the peace process. Efforts by the Quartet, which in September 2011 called on the parties initially to present proposals on borders and security and reach a final agreement no later than the end of 2012, have so far not yielded results. In addition, a series of exploratory talks in Amman in the course of January 2012 have not been successful so far. The Palestinian side refuses to enter into direct negotiations as long as Israel refuses to stop the construction of settlements and to accept the 1967 borders as terms of reference for the talks. Meanwhile, the PA continues its security cooperation with Israel, thus aiming to prove that it is capable of running a state while guaranteeing Israel's security. In the longer run, however, if the realistic prospect of an independent Palestinian state diminishes, the PA's security cooperation will come under increased pressure from the Palestinian population. It has been acknowledged that the Gaza Strip is in a "crisis situation ". Over the last two years, the EU has regularly expressed its readiness to contribute to its reconstruction and economic recovery in view of improving the living conditions of the population and supporting greater access for goods to and from the Gaza Strip. The EU is helping to preserve stability by ensuring the establishment of the minimum conditions for sustainable socio-economic development. Short Description (1) Gaza Post-Conflict Early Recovery - UNRWA programme, including two components, Emergency Job Creation Programme and Primary Health Care Programme provided temporary employment opportunities and promoted the health of Palestine refugees in the Gaza Strip.  Support to the UNMAS programme for clearance and disposal of unexploded ordnances was provided as well. (2) and (3) Middle East Process – The actions were aimed at reinvigorating negotiations through high level dialogue and advocacy activities: - Chatham House: addressed the Palestine refugee issue and promoted the possibility of an agreement in the Arab-Israeli conflict through a comprehensive approach, bringing together various relevant stakeholders; - Toledo International Centre for Peace: created a high level contact group of regional and international participants, acting as a standing forum for discussion and recommendations on core issues and processes related to the Arab-Israeli conflict and peace process from a regional perspective and on the basis of the Arab Peace Initiative (API); - The Political Security Domain Centre for Peace and Security in the Middle East: set up a web-based discussion forum under the name of "Bitterlemons" to improve mutual understanding, to encourage target audiences to use dialogue rather than conflict for managing regional problems, and to use the internet for discussion of political differences. - Search for Common Ground: produced a docu-drama showing the advantages of a peace agreement for everyday life in the region. (4) Socio-economic stabilisation support package for the Gaza Strip - The aim of this programme is to support stabilisation in the Gaza Strip by improving the living conditions of the population, through the UNRWA Job creation programme, by providing short-term job opportunities to the refugee population, and through UNICEF by improving the availibility of the water supply. (5) Support for the upgrading of Karem Abu Salem/Kerem Shalom crossing point - The overall objective of this programme is to facilitate the flow of goods to and from the Gaza Strip in order to foster stability and help re-establish the conditions necessary to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the area. The action will support the upgrading of the crossing point facilities in order to increase its capacity. Karem Abu Salem/Kerem Shalom is currently the Gaza Strip's only functioning crossing point for goods. This is in line with the December 2010 Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions to assist in the reconstruction and economic recovery of Gaza including by extending support to the crossings infrastructure.  Activities and State of Play (1) Both UNRWA and UNMAS programmes are completed, final reports are being analyzed and the projects are in the process of being closed. UNRWA provided 19,260 people with short-term jobs, and injected more than 12 million Euros into the local economy (as paid wages). Families and vendors alike benefited from the introduction of cash and purchase of basic household necessities. Equally, primary health care provision was supported through 7 primary health care centres and three sub-health centres. Through UNRWA’s Special Environmental Health Programme, environmental conditions and infrastructure in the refugee camps were maintained through water supply, sewerage and storm water systems, solid waste collection and disposal, and vector control. Through the UNMAS programme, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) operations were carried out, liaison with local communities maintained, UXO technical risk assessment provided, and safety awareness trainings in rubble removal as well. (2) Chatham House and Toledo Centre completed their actions. Chatham House activities consisted in four consultation meetings with a variety of decision-makers and opinion-makers from various sectors involved with Palestine refugees, also in the neighbouring countries. A stock-taking meeting was organized in October 2011 in UK, aiming at briefing the international community and collecting feedback on research conducted by Chatham House. The Contact Group, led by the Toledo Centre met on four occasions in 2011 with the intention to increase discussions at a regional level regarding regional solutions to the Arab-Israeli conflict and to develop recommendations.  (3) Internet-based forum, Bitterlemons continued to pursue its activities, encouraging open dialogue on the Israeli-Palestinian and Middle Eastern conflict, enabling iPad and iPhone users to access a specially-adapted Bitterlemons website (“bitterlemons apps”), adding virtual books to an early publication, available for free download at a new site. The production of the docu-drama, led by Search For Common Ground, is still on-going. The original script was rewritten extensively, the agreement was extended for six months, and more time was requested to implement the post-TV facilitated screenings and discussions with Israeli and Palestinians groups. (4) The agreements with UNRWA and UNICEF are under preparation. Activities will start in spring 2012. Support will be given to relieve economic hardship at the household level for refugee families through the provision of temporary employment opportunities designed to bolster Gaza’s economy and infrastructure, and to restore private sector capacity in key industries. Additional support will be given for improving capacity for water supply by constructing a medium-sized desalination plant in Gaza.  (5) Activities will start in March 2012.  The action will support the increased capacity of the Karem Abu Salem/Kerem Shalom crossing point facilities by improving existing infrastructure, adding extra infrastructure and purchasing equipment for operating the crossing and for allowing exports. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Since 2009, the EU and UNRWA have worked together to provide vital recovery actions in the Gaza Strip, to keep the private sector alive, in spite of the closure which has hampered its development, and in line with UNRWA’s unique mandate to carry out direct relief and works programmes for Palestine refugees in the Middle East. Part of the IfS projects have been focusing on the promotion of high level dialogue and advocacy activities. These have been providing additional support to reinvogorate the peace process, beyond the means available through the Partnership for Peace, ENPI support and other thematic calls for proposals. The EU delegation dedicated 2011 to identify and formulate the next actions to be financed under IfS, targeting early recovery and rehabilitation in Gaza, where it was found that the instrument would have an important added value to other EU support programmes, such as ECHO or ENPI funded actions in the Strip. This resulted in two decisions taken by the end of the year: i) Gaza Socio-Economic Package (25 MEUR ), Decision No. 2001/23391 – Job Creation Programme (UNRWA, 15 MEUR ) and Small Scale Desalination Plant (UNICEF, 10 MEUR ) and ii) Support for the upgrading of Karem Abu Salem/ Kerem Shalom crossing point (13 MEUR ), Decision No. 2011/23594 (only EUR 8,886,586.00 committed in 2011) and Decision No. 2012/23711 (rest committed from 2012 budget)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Instrument for Stability, 2007-2011............................................................................................... 3

Crisis Response Measures - Overview by
location......................................................................... 3

Stability Instrument Crisis Response Global
Reach – Overview Map.............................................. 5

Instrument for Stability.................................................................................................................. 6

Crisis Response Measures adopted and ongoing
in 2011 Progress Reports by Country/Region/Location:           6

Afghanistan................................................................................................................................... 7

African Union (Addis Ababa)...................................................................................................... 10

Bangladesh................................................................................................................................. 12

Bolivia... .................................................................................................................................... 14

Bosnia and Herzegovina.............................................................................................................. 17

Burundi.. .................................................................................................................................... 19

Central African Republic............................................................................................................. 21

Colombia.................................................................................................................................... 23

Comoros.................................................................................................................................... 25

Cuba..... .................................................................................................................................... 27

Democratic Republic of Congo................................................................................................... 29

Dominican Republic.................................................................................................................... 32

Ecuador. .................................................................................................................................... 34

Egypt..... .................................................................................................................................... 36

Georgia. .................................................................................................................................... 39

Haiti...... .................................................................................................................................... 43

Honduras.................................................................................................................................... 46

Indonesia.................................................................................................................................... 49

Côte D'Ivoire.............................................................................................................................. 51

Kazakhstan................................................................................................................................. 53

Kenya... .................................................................................................................................... 55

Kosovo. .................................................................................................................................... 57

Kyrgyz Republic......................................................................................................................... 60

Instrument for Stability,
2007-2011

Crisis Response Measures
- Overview by location

Stability Instrument
Crisis Response Global Reach – Overview Map

Instrument for Stability

Crisis Response Measures
adopted and ongoing in 2011
Progress
Reports by Country/Region/Location:

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Afghanistan

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support for implementing UNSC Resolutions 1325 and 1820 (2) Support to women's rights and political participation (the "Rehbar Project") (3) Civilian Police Capacity Building in Afghanistan || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || (1) and (2) Women's rights and political participation (3) Security Sector Reform

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) and (2) 27/07/2010, as amended on 22/12/2010 (3) 06/05/2011, as  amended on 23/08//2011

Amount(s) || (1) Contracted EUR  359,990.80; Paid EUR  287,992.64 (2) Contracted EUR  634,836; Paid EUR  327,429.60 (3) Contracted: EUR  15,000,000; Paid: EUR  8,871,357

Start Date of Project || (1) 15/09/2010, (2) 06/06/2010, (3) 19/10/2011

End Date || (1) 15/11/2011, (2) 06/12/2012, (3) 18/04/2013

Context of Instability Afghanistan continues to rank as one of the most dangerous countries for women and girls to live in. While election quotas reserve political seats for Afghan women, up to 28 percent for the Parliament, these quotas do not automatically translate into the real impact and participation of women who occupy these seats. In the justice and security sectors, women constitute less than 1 percent of personnel. Afghanistan is a party to a number of UN human rights instruments, such as CEDAW and UNSCR 1325. Several national documents are meant to translate these into nationally applicable laws and policies. These include the Constitution, the National Action Plan for Women of Afghanistan (NAPWA) and Afghan National Development Strategy (ANDS), as well as the Law on Elimination of Violence Against Women (EVAW). However their implementation remains deficient. Strong presence of customary law, traditions and cultural practices that often replace statutory law, especially in non-urban areas also can deny women a number of basic human rights. Key to improving women's political participation and adherence to their human rights is meaningful involvement in decision and policy making. The Government of Afghanistan also needs to respect and fulfil its commitments under signed and ratified international human rights instruments. Progress on Security Sector Reform (SSR) has been uneven, with the police and justice institutions in particular lagging behind. The Afghan National Police (ANP) is not only deficient in terms of numbers, equipment and training, but is primarily used in military activities rather than as a service to society. In order for Afghanistan to move towards post-conflict stability, policing is crucial to upholding law and order and securing the conditions for socioeconomic development. To build trust between the police and local communities, the ANP needs to improve its basic policing duties such as protecting the public against crime and lawlessness, largely through better training. Short Description  (1) The aim of the project is to identify and develop instruments for NGOs monitoring and assessing the implementation of UNSCR 1325. Afghanistan is responsible for ensuring the application of UNSCR 1325 but has so far largely failed to do so. The project is made up of several components, among others, developing indicators and benchmarks for monitoring the implementation of UNSCR 1325, participating in various events connected to the 10th anniversary of UNSCR 1325 and issuing a country report with findings and analysis on the implementation of UNSCR 1325. Data collected during the project serve as evidence-based advocacy tools in various policy discussion spaces and instruments, such as CEDAW sessions and Human Rights Council's Universal Periodic Review. (2) The 'Rehbar' project aims at strengthening and enhancing the effectiveness of the female leadership cadre in Afghanistan, to be achieved through a three level process: it strengthens the gender perspective of women parliamentarians through capacity building and training, brings women's organisations and parliamentarians together through dialogue and consultation and carries out targeted lobbying and advocacy work at local, regional and international level. (3) The overall objective of the Civilian Police Capacity Building project is to contribute to the stabilisation of Afghanistan by strengthening the civilian component of the ANP. A civilian police force capable of upholding the rule of law is crucial to state-building and to addressing the root causes of alienation that drive the insurgency. Strong EU backing in favour of a shift towards a more civilian-focused police force has received broad support, including from Afghanistan's Ministry of Interior. The programme also complements and enhances the activities of the European Police Mission in Afghanistan (EUPOL). The project is made up of three components. The first two consist in constructing and equipping two Police Training Centres: the Staff College in Kabul and a Regional Training Centre in Bamyan, the latter with specific capacity to accommodate women. The third component is made up of three quick impact capacity building projects implemented by EUPOL, including strengthening civilian policing capacity, enhancing police and prosecutor capacity in dealing with cases of violence against women and ensuring the right to legal aid through police cooperation with the Ministry of Justice.   Activities and State of Play (1) Monitoring of UNSCR 1325 was concluded in late 2011 with the launch of a comprehensive report presenting findings and recommendations on the implementation of UNSCR 1325. The project encountered some difficulties related to security in some provinces, but was able to adapt through innovative research methods. (2) Strengthening the leadership of female cadre in Afghanistan project is underway with the establishment of an office in Kabul. The project started with advocacy activities within and outside Afghanistan and the maintenance and networking with key national and international stakeholders. (3)The design of the two training centres is under way. The EU implementing partner, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) is in constant contact with partners from the Ministry of Interior (MoI) to ensure that the project progresses according to agreed standards and with respect for cultural norms and customs. Construction will begin during the course of late spring/early summer 2012. The capacity building component has completed the preparation phase and activities began in March 2012. EUPOL will be supporting seven Provincial Police Chiefs to form and mentor special civilian policing units as well as mentoring police and prosecutors in victim friendly interview techniques (for women), basic female-related forensic techniques and the rights of arrested persons. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Both projects that support women's rights and political participation fit within the wider objectives of the EU on Gender and Civil Society development. Grassroots level data collection and involvement of local actors in assessing the usefulness and impact of international gender-focused human rights instruments also supports the EU overall strategy towards building a representative and vocal civil society with strong gender focus in Afghanistan. The police capacity building project reflects the EU's concern for gender and the empowerment of women, through the specific emphasis on training women police officers and equipping ANP officers, as well as prosecutors, with the skills to address crimes against women. More broadly, the focus on training and civilianisation of the police, for the ANP to render services to the population, complements the EU's governance programmes in justice, public administration and sub-national governance, since together they form the basis for a society governed by the rule of law. In addition, many of the activities funded under the European Instrument for Human Rights and Non State Actors in Development programme contribute towards or benefit from the existence of enforceable accountability and oversight mechanisms and the ability of the forces of law and order to apply the rules.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

African Union
(Addis Ababa)

Title of IfS Decision || Support to AU election observation missions in African countries affected by unstable environments ||

Type of measure || Support to Regional Peace-building Capacity

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions ||  May 2009

Amount(s) ||  IfS 2008/033 – 09/008 Contracted: EUR   1,000,000 Paid: EUR   400,000

Start Date of Project || August 2009

End Date || February 2011

Context of Instability Since the new wave of Africa’s democratisation in the early 1990’s, elections have been one of the greatest achievements of participation and political inclusiveness in most African countries. At the same time, in a number of countries, elections have led to violence and political conflicts, aggravating ethnic and communal tensions thereby threatening social order and economic development. To boost democratic practices and enhance stability in Africa, the African Union (AU) has invested considerable efforts in developing a wide range of protocols and principles promoting democracy, peace and stability, including for governing elections. However, resurgence of election-related conflicts such as the post-election crisis in Kenya of December 2007, Zimbabwe in 2008 and the Ivory Cost in 2010, underlined the need to improve the implementation of AU mechanisms so as to boost their effectiveness and legitimacy in preventing and resolving electoral conflicts. One of the main tools used by the AU, especially in countries experiencing, and/or emerging from, violent conflicts are election observation and monitoring missions (EOM). In observing elections, AU missions aim to promote the integrity of the electoral process and the credibility of the outcome by analysing the transparency of the election process as well as the extent of a “level playing field” for key electoral stakeholders. Short Description The overall objective of the project was to contribute to the prevention and mitigation of electoral-related conflict in Africa by supporting and facilitating the deployment of African Union Election Observation Missions (EOM) in African countries affected by crisis, emerging crisis or post-conflict situations in accordance with regional and international election observation standards. Activities and State of Play The project provided EUR 1 million to the “Electoral Assistance Fund” of the Democracy and Electoral Assistance Unit (DEAU) within the Department of Political Affairs at the AU Commission which is entrusted with coordinating and developing AU election observation. The bulk of the programme covered travel, per diem and other costs of electoral observers associated with five elections, depending on other donor’s contributions, though the programme faced certain obstacles which led to a considerable under-utilisation of funds.  EU funds were used for the AU EOM to the legislative elections in Comoros in December 2009 and the Presidential elections in Guinea in 2010. The AU EOMs were normally complementary to the international support given to the national Electoral Commission for the organisation of the elections Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Support to election observation missions supplemented well EU assistance provided under the Africa-EU Partnership on Democratic Governance and Human Rights and was fully linked to the activities of the 2008-2010 action plan in support of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance. IfS assistance was also complementary to international donors’ assistance to the AU Commission, including EU Member States, and paved the way for more structured EU support under longer term financial instruments. Finally, the project supports political dialogue with the AU and the country observed, notably in light of preventing conflict over electoral outcomes and complements EU assistance to African elections, i.e. EU EOMs as well as specific support to the organisation or domestic monitoring of elections under EDF, EIDHR or IfS.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Bangladesh

Title of IfS Decision || Programme of support for the restoration of socio-economic stability and strengthening of community resilience in areas affected by cyclone AILA in Bangladesh || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Post-Disaster Recovery

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 10/06/2010

Amount(s) || EUR   5,000,000 Contracted: EUR   5,000,000 Paid: EUR   4,500,000

Start Date of Project || 01/07/2010

End Date || 30/12/2011

Context of Instability EU-Bangladesh relations date back to shortly after Bangladesh's creation as a state in 1971, and reached a new level of partnership with the Cooperation Agreement of 2001. This Agreement considerably broadened the scope of co-operation, to include trade and economic development, human rights, good governance and the environment. In December 2008 Bangladesh ended two years of military-backed caretaker government rule after largely peaceful and credible elections saw the Awami League voted back into office. The elections represented a step towards developing a more effective democracy, although significant challenges remain for South Asia’s poorest country. In the aftermath of the democratic transition, political parties face the ongoing challenge of making parliament work. Bangladesh is faced with several challenges that transcend partisan politics such as a weak judiciary and law enforcement agencies, minority issues, remaining problems (such as refugees and water management) with regional neighbours, poverty, illiteracy and low development indicators (particularly for women). Cyclone AILA struck Bangladesh on 25 May 2009. Although damage was concentrated in a smaller geographic area than during cyclone SIDR in 2007, a large number of critically important polder embankments were severely damaged, wiping out livelihoods within the polders and rural road infrastructure. The delayed repair of the polder embankments has resulted in a protracted relief situation. Short Description The overall objective of the project was to contribute to stability and rehabilitation in the coastal areas of south-western Bangladesh devastated by cyclone AILA. Specifically, it provided urgently needed support for the recovery and rehabilitation of rural infrastructure and livelihoods in affected coastal areas. In addition, it aimed to promote socio-economic stability and to strengthen the economic and physical resilience and protection of communities against future natural disasters. Activities and State of Play The project had two components, each one featuring a number of major activities: 1) Promoting socio-economic stability through livelihood support. 2) Strengthening community resilience and preparedness. The local implementing partner, BRAC[1], a leading NGO in Bangladesh, started its work on 1 July 2010. Project beneficiaries were selected from occupational groups affected by cyclone AILA using a set of predefined criteria for each category of beneficiary: female-headed households; vulnerable children; the disabled; the elderly with no income-earning household members; ethnic minorities; and other socially excluded groups are particularly targeted. The project was implemented in 5 upazillas (sub-districts) in 3 districts. The impact of the cash-for-work component was two-fold: providing urgently needed income to buy food and other essentials, while re-establishing crucial rural infrastructure to re-launch income generation and markets. Components such as small business, fish pond rehabilitation and tricycle van and vegetable production have seen an excellent impact. Other components, such as ‘social forestry’, will only have full impact in the longer term. In many cases, the project went beyond livelihood rehabilitation due to the use of high-quality input and close technical supervision. BRAC coordinated closely with the Government and local authorities on post-AILA rehabilitation programmes. Throughout the project, there was strong Government support and presence (community meetings and provision of training) which was instrumental in mobilising farmers to be receptive to agricultural innovation. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This action was linked to the post-AILA relief phase, for which DG ECHO contributed over EUR 22 million, and the longer-term development of the affected areas. It was designed to support reconstruction, complementing DG ECHO emergency assistance and linked with DG ECHO disaster preparedness activities (DIPECHO) and EU development support to reduce disaster risk and improve food security. The EU Delegation to Bangladesh ensured complementarity with planned and ongoing DG ECHO activities and assistance from other development partners. The action contributed to establishing the conditions necessary for the successful implementation of the ongoing Sundarbans Environmental And Livelihoods Security (SEALS) project under the EU Development Co-operation Instrument (DCI) and future assistance in the same area.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Bolivia

Titles of IfS Decisions || Promotion of political dialogue and effective democratic institutions ||   Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Institutional capacity building, conflict mediation

Dates of Adoption of IfS Decision || 05/10/2009

Amount(s) || EUR  4.000.000 Contracted: EUR  3.895.958,91 Paid: EUR  3.506.385,81

Start Dates of Project ||  01/09/2009

End Dates ||  14/03/2012

Context of Instability Bolivia's attempt to reform its democracy, not least through the implementation of a new Constitution (2009), is widely considered to be one of the most important socio-political processes in Latin America today. However, the ambitious changes envisaged take place in a context of marked political polarisation and rising public discontent. Unresolved conflicts are accumulating and challenges to the legitimacy of the State and its action are increasing. The number of conflicts in Bolivia is growing fast, moving from 282 in 2009 to 836 in 2010 and over 1300 in 2011[2], presenting the highest number of conflicts since 1970. Around 80% of these conflicts are social in nature and more often than not, the administration is one of the interested parties. Recent state reforms, such as the elections of magistrates of Bolivia's four highest judicial bodies in October 2011 have also led to controversy and tension. Further political reforms are scheduled and may prove equally contentious (examples include the implementation of indigenous autonomies, the law on Prior Consultation, the Population Census which will provide the necessary information for redefining regional competencies, division of seats in Parliament and the Fiscal Pact, which will decide on territorial fiscal revenues) and detrimental to the normal functioning of the administration and democratic institutions. Short Description Promotion of Political Dialogue and Effective Democratic Institutions in Bolivia, aimed to address the immediate political and institutional challenges faced by Bolivia in the run-up to the general and local elections held in April 2010, in order to help mitigate social and political conflict. In particular, the programme was designed to provide assistance to the organisation of the elections, to the promotion of non-violent dialogue, to the legislative reform process and to the fight against drugs. Until early 2010, a separate project also funded a study on the Coca Leaf; the results of this study still await clearance from the Bolivian authorities prior to their publication. Activities and State of Play Activities began in September 2009 with support to civil society in its efforts to promote transparent and peaceful elections. Support to the institutional capacity of the Electoral Commission (Tribunal Supremo Electoral, TSE) was designed jointly with UNDP to maintain the new biometric voters' register and assist in the implementation of the requirements of the new Constitution. Due to the judicial reforms and divisions within the TSE, the project was paralysed from January until April 2011, when TSE's activities restarted with a focus on the preparation of the judicial elections of 16th October 2011. Although politically controversial, due to the high percentage of blank votes, the TSE ́s technical implementation was considered an important achievement given the context of political polarisation. Regarding the promotion of dialogue, through the action with UNDP, social movements representing indigenous populations, rural workers and peasants entered in national dialogue with government on strategic issues through a platform, the Pacto de Unidad. Unfortunately, as from August 2011, the TIPNIS-crisis divided peasant and indigenous organisations, severely weakening the platform in a way that could no longer be effectively addressed by the project. However, the intra- and interregional dialogue process, which includes the resource rich regions of Santa Cruz and Tarija, continued to bring opposing factions together in debates on regional political conflict. Under the component on reinforcing the role journalists play in promoting stability monthly seminars were held involving national and international media experts and these events have contributed to a more balanced coverage of key issues in Bolivian democracy. The Venice Commission (VC) supports the implementation of the 2009 Constitution through institutional capacity building and expertise on legislative proposals. In 2011, the VC elaborated a legal opinion on the Draft Law on the Public Prosecution Service and organised for the Bolivian judicial authorities to present and discuss this in international fora. In collaboration with the Attorney General's office, seminars on the independence of prosecutors, international and constitutional principles on indigenous justice and respect for human rights were organised in various parts of the country. Concerning the fight against drugs, UNODC ́s country office strengthened its presence and visibility in Bolivia thanks to this IfS action and re-established dialogue with international community on drug related issues. It is remarkable that neighbouring countries are now participating and also that government authorities are invited on an ad-hoc basis. Technical outputs were: annual monitoring report on 2011 coca production was presented; national anti-narcotics council CONALTID was supported in its restructuring process; alternative development programmes (forestry and agriculture) provided tree nurseries in 7 municipalities for reforestation and planted 200 hectares of coffee; 11 municipalities received cartography material for territorial and environmental plans; vocational training programme in Yungas area provided courses to some 5.000 people. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS action is in line with the EU strategy in the country and has contributed to the implementation of the three priority areas of EU development cooperation by reducing political conflict, reinforcing democratic institutions and strengthening the development of new legislation implementing the 2009 Constitution. The activities are also in line with the EU pilot project on democracy support. Under Calls for Proposals (IfS and EIDHR) launched in 2011 further activities to support dialogue, consensus building and mediation have started. In addition, many of the legislative reforms necessary to implement the 2009 Constitution will change the framework in which EU cooperation functions. New regulations may affect economic activities as well as the issues of decent work, drugs, water management and environment.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Bosnia and
Herzegovina

Title of IfS Decision || 1. Small Arms Control Programme (SACP), phase 2 2. Youth Peace Advocates (YPA) in Eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Crisis Preparedness, Post-Conflict Recovery

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 1. 16 December 2009 2. 21 December 2007

Amount(s) || 1. Contracted: EUR   2,086,000; Paid: EUR  2,042,670.21 2. Contracted: EUR   485,000.00; Paid: EUR  388,000.00

Start Date of Project || 1. 1 January 2010; 2. 31/12/2008

End Date || 1. 31 December 2011; 2. 31/03/2012

Context of Instability Since the end of the war in 1995, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has made progress towards political and socio-economic stabilization by embarking on democratic reforms, reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, return of property to pre-war owners and restoration and ongoing reform of state institutions. However, national divides and low confidence in social institutions make social cohesion particularly fragile. In addition, the rule of law is generally weak, undermining international efforts to establish good governance.  Young people in particular, along with the elderly, children and people with disabilities, are most likely to feel the effects of instability and low development. Youth are disillusioned about their future. At present, the country’s major challenge is to put in place consistent and sustainable structural reforms that guarantee developments towards EU integration, as opposed to the humanitarian concerns of the late nineties. In this context, one of the toughest challenges is the wide presence of Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) as there is a limited capacity of the armed forces to adequately finance and guard ammunition storage sites. The presence of ERW slows down security sector reform, introduces an element of instability into the political system, directly threatens the lives of citizens, and is an impediment to further economic development throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Short Description Given the volume of ERW to be destroyed, two phases of ammunition destruction projects were implemented by the end of 2011 in partnership with the UNDP. Projects supported the reinforcement of the state institutions dealing with ERWs and the destruction of remaining ERW which pose threats and risks following their unstable nature. From 2010, the support also built up Disaster Management capacities of the country. YPA's main objective was to increase stability and peace and promote a culture of human rights amongst youth and the community in general throughout the country. Specific objective was to stimulate improvements in the socio-economic life and the attitudes and behaviours of the youth of three municipalities in Eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina (Srebrenica, Vlasenica, and Bratunac). This area is known as one of the most deprived areas of the country notorious for the war crimes, the contact between Serb and Bošnjak returnee populations is minimal and the region’s outwardly peaceful appearance masks deep social divides and ingrained cultural antipathies. Activities and State of Play All activities planned under both projects were successfully finished and the expected results were achieved. Significant quantities of high hazardous and chemically unstable ammunitions and remnants of war were destroyed (such as more than 100 000 pieces of hand grenades, more than 200 tonnes of artillery ammunition, 60 000 pieces of rifle grenade fuses) including most notably all stockpiles of reported quantities of cluster munitions. With IfS support, Bosnia and Herzegovina implemented obligations stemming from the Article 3 of the Convention on Ban of Cluster Munitions that stipulates the destruction of stockpiles, making it the second country in the region to dispose of its cluster munitions stockpiles. Also, the central registry for weapons and military equipment was finalised as well as other systems such as crime prevention system installation in four municipalities or guidelines for ammunition disposal for Ministry of Defence drafted. As concerns YPA, the main results included capacity building of three youth organisations through coaching and consultancy for institutional development, and training in rights-based approaches, peace building and community development. Youth awareness raising campaigns and community mediation and peace building activities were delivered. A regional network of youth NGOs for peace was established, holding three lessons learnt regional conferences and undertaking three policy-oriented peace advocacy campaigns. Also, research on youth attitudes towards human rights and tolerance in the community was conducted by three community youth organisations. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Both projects complement other EU activities financed under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) and European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights and effectively contribute to wider international efforts to stabilise, democratise, and demilitarise the country. Both projects implemented the gender aspect through mainstreaming.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Burundi

Title of IfS Decision || Support to the Demobilisation and Transitional Reintegration Process in Burundi (PDRT) || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || DRR – demobilisation, reinsertion and reintegration

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 11/12/2009

Amount(s) || 4 M EUR

Start Date of Project || 11/12/2009

End Date || 20/06/2011

Context of Instability Rebel forces based in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), among them  Front de Libération Nationale (FNL), represent the main source of instability in North and South Kivu and are a potential security threat for Rwanda and Burundi. Two new Burundian rebel forces were identified in 2011 – Fronabu-Tabara based in eastern DRC and Le Front de Restauration de la Démocratie (FRD) with its base in Tanzania. Although there are indications of participation of FNL elements (operating in eastern DRC) in the Fronabu-Tabara movement, these cannot be confirmed. The latest report on the DRC drafted by UN experts in December 2011 indicates that several leaders of the Burundian opposition political parties intend to create a joint rebellion that work towards a coup d'etat before the next elections, planned for 2015. Short Description Specific objectives for this programme, are: to support the efforts of Burundi to demobilise members of the FNL and the FNL dissidents (FNL-D); to provide socio-economic reintegration support to the ex-combatants and; to provide socio-economic reintegration support to ex-combatants demobilised under the emergency Demobilisation, Reinsertion and Reintegration Project (EDRRP) closed at the end of 2008 with a particular focus on the provision of such support to female, child and disabled ex-combatants. Activities and State of Play The basic part of the World Bank Demobilisation, Reinsertion and Reintegration (DRR) programme, the ‘Demobilisation’ phase was already closed in 2009. 6504 adult ex-combatants had been demobilised and had received an identity card. The demobilisation also included 626 children associated with the combatants/child soldiers. ‘Reinsertion’ support in the form of Transitional Substance Allowance to assist ex-combatants in covering basic needs associated with the reinsertion process has almost been completed. With regard to economic and social reintegration, most participants opted for income generating activities and over 7.300 micro projects have been supported. Follow-up activities with those supported will continue till June 2012. This saw specific efforts to support children - 102 children went back to school and others benefitted from professional reinsertion support (professional training or economic activity support). Support to disabled ex-combatants entailed 3 teams operating in all provinces to identify, re-diagnose and refer beneficiaries. Physiotherapy material was installed at two public institutions, and accommodation for a number of patients was made available. Support to the disabled will be the main component of the extended project in 2012. The psycho-social assistance component of the programme has been implemented by an NGO partner (TPO).  260 project beneficiaries are female ex-combatants. Upon their return to their communities, all female ex-combatants received their reinsertion benefits. Economic reintegration support was tailored towards specific needs and preferences of female ex-combatants including, for example, appropriate income generating activities and provision of child care during training to facilitate their full participation. The potential role of poorly integrated ex-combatants in the political arena might reappear should the deterioration of the security situation in several provinces continue. A significant number of FNL ex-combatants feel threatened and persecuted. At least 300 of FNL combatants are reported to be in the DRC and the Burundian government accuses those people, as well as other supporters of the exiled FNL leader, M Rwasa, to be behind past violent acts. Attention should be paid to any political developments and the ex-combatants' situation and to the level of success of their real reintegration. The programme was implemented by the World Bank’s Technical Coordination Team and recruited partner organisations. The overall WB programme has been extended to mid-2013. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This programme fits into the EU efforts for a peaceful development of the region of the Great Lakes, namely in Burundi, Rwanda and the DRC. PDRT is a follow-up action of the previous EDRRP programme, to which the EU also contributed, aimed at demobilisation, reinsertion and reintegration of the National Council for the Defense of Democracy–Forces for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD-FDD) ex-combatants. After almost 15 years of civil war in Burundi and following the two democratic elections of 2005 and 2010, it is in the EU's interest to participate in all the processes that support peace building and democratisation in Burundi.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Central African
Republic

Title of IfS Decisions || Support for measures to mitigate the social effects of restructuring of the armed forces || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Security Sector Reform

Date of Adoption || 17/12/2008

Amount(s) ||  EUR  5,150,000 Contracted: EUR  5,051,856 Paid: EUR  4,965,142.54 ||

Start Dates of Projects || 16/06/2009

End Dates || 31/05/2011

Context of Instability The Central African Republic (CAR) is a fragile state among the poorest countries in the world in a post-conflict situation and bordered by a number of unstable countries including Sudan (Darfur), Chad and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).  Its borders are porous, the authority of the State is seriously constrained outside the capital of Bangui and its Treasury is strained.  The security and humanitarian situation has deteriorated steadily with increasing violence generated from regionally-based political opposition and from banditry beyond Government control, leading to the deployment of peacekeeping missions (MICOPAX; EUFOR CHAD/CAR until March 2009, subsequently replaced by MINURCAT until December 2010) which help to secure parts of the territory.  In 2008, progress towards ending decades of conflict was made when a Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed committing two of the main rebel groups to disarm.  In addition, the Government started to advance with reforms of the security sector and in particular, the restructuring of the army. However, during 2010-2011 the security sector reform (SSR) and the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) processes decelerated, increasing the level of insecurity increased, in particular in the north and north-east.  The legislative and Presidential elections, which took place in January and March 2011, led to the reelection of President Bozizé and the almost total majority of the ruling party and its allies at the National Assembly.  Candidates of the opposition were marginalised and left at the roadside. In June 2011 the President decided, on his own, to re-launch the DDR process in the north-west of the country. By October, the DDR process was halted once more due to a lack of funding, thereby increasing insecurity in the country. Short Description Since 2008, the IfS was deployed to underpin a sustainable resolution of the crisis. Altogether three measures were financed to contribute to CAR’s political stabilisation and to respond to the country’s post-conflict needs. Two of these measures ended in 2010, i.e. Support to national conciliation and prevention of conflict and Security System Reform Team of Experts. The first measure aimed at facilitating national conciliation and democratic reforms before the 2011 elections, empowering the National Council for Mediation (NCM) as an effective mechanism of conflict prevention, management, resolution, and of good governance. The latter supported the CAR Government at a strategic level in the initial phase of implementing the SSR strategy. The project on Support for measures to mitigate the social effects of restructuring of the armed forces complements these earlier projects and helped to kick-start the SSR process by facilitating the retirement of a number of ageing army personnel and helping the reform of the armed forces, as incorporated in the 2009 military planning law. Activities and State of Play The project provided a retirement package for army personnel qualified for retirement in 2007. Approximately 850 individual files of military, gendarmerie and police officers were validated and the payment of the individual packages was completed by May 2011. The government was enabled to launch an ethnically and regionally-balanced recruitment drive of 1800 soldiers and acquired the budgetary means tointegrate some ex-combatants into the security forces. However, due to the stagnating DDR process, the integration of ex-combatants has been delayed. So far, approximatively 60 ex-combatants disarmed and demobilized in 2011 are anticipated to be integrated in the defence and armed forces.  Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS is a significant part of the EU’s commitment to the peace process in CAR, complementing EU support by EUFOR CHAD, the African Peace Facility, with the Central African Multinational Force (MICOPAX) and development instruments.  New EU support  is planned, targeting the development of the rule of law and DDR. These will relaunch the peace process, restructure the army and reintegrate ex-combatants and will be crucial for the stabilisation of the country.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Colombia

Title of IfS Decision || Support to the 'Working Group on Historical Memory' contributing to a truth process on forced disappearances and kidnappings in Colombia' || Copyright UNReliefWeb

Type of measure || Reconciliation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 17/06/2010

Amount(s) || 1,200,000.00 EUR

Start Date of Project || 19/10/2011

End Date || 19/04/2013

Context of Instability Since the Colombian government took office on 7th August 2010, a number of initiatives and legislative efforts have been set in motion, notably including a political programme characterised by a strong sense of the rule of law, opening a new window of opportunity for both reparations to the victims and reconciliation following on decades of armed conflict and human rights’ violations. Forced disappearances and kidnappings of tens of thousands of individuals are among the most serious violations of Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law (IHL) that were perpetrated in Colombia, mainly by guerrilla, paramilitary and criminal groups, but also by state agents. Between 3.7 and 5.2 million Colombians, according to different sources, have been displaced from their homes, escaping from massacres, forced disappearances and kidnappings from the different armed groups still active in the country. Yet, the main problem has probably been the lack of political will to address these issues in the last decades. More recently, during public presentations of Historical Memory reports the Government asked the victims for forgiveness, thus helping to open up a new space for reconciliation in the country. In addition, investigations based on those reports resulted in new detentions and prosecutions of those who perpetrated massacres, thereby reinforcing the rule of law and helping to improve the human rights situation by granting a more effective access to remedies. Short Description The overall aim of this action is to support the opening up of a space for a truth, justice and reconciliation process in Colombia around the issue of kidnappings and forced disappearances. The measure supports the preparation of a report that, by helping to understand the true dimension of the crimes, will enable the Colombian State to acknowledge its responsibilities and honour the memory of the victims and their families, further opening up the space for a truth, justice and reconciliation process. Activities and State of Play The project suffered a delay due to a substantive change in the institutional structure. On 19 October 2011 the Project was signed by Acción Social, the Colombian Development Agency. It should be noted that Acción Social has since been substituted by law by three different Public Institutions, one of them being the Centro de Memoria Histórica who will be in charge of the project in a near future. This initiative has grown out of the work of the ‘National Commission on Reparation and Reconciliation’ (CNRR), a state entity created in 2005 as a mechanism through which the Colombian administration and representatives of non state actors work together towards the reconstruction of the collective memory, the provision of reparations to the victims and reconciliation. The conflict and forced displacement in Colombia has particularly affected women and the way women have been affected will be a particular focus of the study to be elaborated. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This action follows on from a previous IfS project which was more narrowly focused on helping civil society organisations dedicated to victim advocacy become more effective. The action involved more than twenty partners who are now in a better position to provide social leadership and engage with state and government institutions. The programme took advantage of windows of opportunity that could lead to a more efficient and transparent implementation of the Justice and Peace Law, which was also supported through the EU bilateral cooperation with Colombia and especially with the Ministry of Justice and Interior.  This new action will be closely linked with work currently being funded under the EIDHR and complements work undertaken by Member States such as Spain (AECID), Sweden (SIDA) and Germany (GIZ) who are also funding Historical Memory related actions.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Comoros

Title of IfS Decision || Financial support to the preparation of parliamentary elections in the Union of Comoros || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Support related to election processes

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 4 November 2009

Amount(s) || EUR  1,000,000 Contracted: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  1,000,000 Paid: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  950,000

Start Date of Project || 14/10/2009

End Date || 13/10/2010 + 6 months extension up to 13/04/2011

Context of Instability Between 2007 and 2011, the Comoros has experienced a fragile political situation with high public debt, high levels of rural poverty, isolation due to insularity, poor infrastructure and economic and energy vulnerability. After the separatist crisis in 2007 and the  military intervention in 2008, crucial constitutional reforms were implemented in 2009 (including elections to the legislature and presidential elections in 2010). However, the Union Parliament and Islands' assembly elections were postponed twice, due to lack of resources and capacity. Only when international community support, under the umbrella of the African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN), was mobilised could a new crisis be avoided. However, a new Government could only take office in May 2011, ending the transitional period. Short Description Following the joint assessment mission organised by AU in June 2009, the Government committed to organise legislative elections. The EU gave a positive answer to a request by the Comorian authorities for financial support, through a multi donor basket fund managed by the UNDP office, to the Electoral Commission and other local partners involved in the electoral process. The project supported a wide range of activities related to the preparation and organisation of the elections. Funding, which covered expertise and staff, procurement of Election Day materials and logistic costs, was provided under the conditions that the Comorian electoral process would be credible: i) an independent Electoral Commission; ii) credible registration of voters; iii) indelible ink to avoid multiple-voting; iv) a dialogue mechanism; v) respect of existing laws and constitutions and;  vi) credible international observation. Activities and State of Play The overall aim of the action was to pave the way for transparent and legitimate elections in the Comoros and the following were identified as key components for improved transparency and integrity: i) increase the capacity of the Independent National Electoral Commission to manage elections; ii) improve the political environment through dialogue mechanisms for conflict resolution; iii) improve the capacity of the Constitutional court to deal with electoral issues; iv) enhanced capacity to ensure electoral transparency through media and voter education and assistance to institutions and civil society organizations; v) strengthen the participation of women in all electoral phases. Peaceful legislative elections took place in December 2009, and the results were accepted by all parties and the National assembly and three Islands Councils were put in place. A 6 month extension was provided to the project in order to complete the second phase of the programme, notably a revision of the electoral lists. However, these activities could not be fully completed within the foreseen time-frame due to the Presidential elections in December 2010. The setting up of a new biometric system for registration of voters is currently ongoing, funded by other donors' contributions for the 2009 and 2010 electoral support programmes, including the European Development Fund (EDF). Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The action is complementary to other international efforts supporting the electoral processes.  While an EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) could not be deployed, an African Union EOM was funded under a different IfS financial support measure facilitating the deployment of AU EOMs in African countries affected by crises. The European Union supports Comoros’ socio-economic development through the EDF, mainly in infrastructure and in education. Since the 2007/08 separatist crisis, the EU is also strongly involved in the reconciliation process, along with other international partners under the lead of the African Union. Subsequently, a strong focus on good governance and institutional capacity building characterises the EU approach and interventions in the Comoros. In this context, this IfS support through the UNDP and the AU were vital to support peace and democracy consolidation.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Cuba

Title of IfS Decision || Programme in Support to Post-Hurricane Rehabilitation in Cuba || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Post-Disaster Recovery

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 17/03/2009

Amount(s) || EUR  7,500,000 Contracted: as of 31/12/2009: EUR  7,500,000 Paid: as of 31/12/2011 EUR  6,611,694.94

Start Date of Project || April/May 2009

End Date || Mid-2011

Context of Instability Hurricanes Gustav, Ike and Paloma, which hit Cuba between August and November 2008, damaged or destroyed over 500,000 houses, required the temporary evacuation of some three million Cubans, and caused overall damage and losses estimated at almost USD 10 billion. The hurricanes also destroyed vast amounts of crops and significantly damaged agricultural production capacity throughout the country. This was the case in particular in the provinces of Camaguey, Granma, Holguin, Las Tunas, the Isle of Youth and Pinar del Rio. Following the Council Conclusions of 23 June 2008 lifting the diplomatic measures against Cuba, EU political dialogue with the country was re-launched after several years of interruption, and co-operation within the two formally resumed in October 2008. EU contribution to post-hurricane rehabilitation was therefore not only considered as necessary in view of the extent of the hurricane damage, but also particularly timely at this juncture of EU-Cuba relations. It was welcomed by the Cuban authorities. Short Description The IfS supported post-hurricane rehabilitation in Cuba by helping rehabilitate essential agricultural production capacities in the six worst-affected provinces.  The IfS programme was implemented through grant contracts signed in spring 2009 directly with four consortia of NGOs led respectively by Deutsche Welthungerhilfe, Intermon Oxfam, Comitato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo dei Popoli (CISP) and FOS (Fonds voor Ontwikkelingssamenwerking – socialistiche solidariteit).  Common local counterparts for all projects were the Cuban agricultural associations ANAP, ACPA and ACTAF. Projects were implemented in 14 municipalities in the six beneficiary provinces, supporting more than 240 productive entities (essentially farmers' cooperatives), with 43,866 direct beneficiaries overall. One of the projects focused more specifically on urban agriculture. Activities and State of Play The IfS programme in Cuba was successfully completed in the course of 2011. The bulk of the programme budget was used to rehabilitate and upgrade the productive capacities of benefitting productive entities (including irrigation systems, productive buildings, tools and machinery, power supply, fences etc), with a view to rapidly recover and ideally exceed pre-hurricane food production levels in the affected provinces. This support to the agricultural sector in Cuba was even more important at a moment when this sector was being reformed, in view of increasing country's food security, which largely depends on small farmers and co-operatives. At the end of implementation, all four projects reported an increase of the productive capacities of benefitting entities between 10% and 16%. Activities also took account of the need for disaster risk reduction (DRR), e.g. by "building back better" i.e. putting in place more resilient or removable infrastructure to face new hurricanes. Training on disaster risk reduction was also provided. Overall, the equipment and capacity-building provided under this programme were highly appreciated both by the direct beneficiaries and by the country authorities. The programme was clearly perceived as a joint endeavour and a visible sign of EU solidarity in helping overcome the effects of the hurricanes. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS programme helped ensure the essential link between the ECHO-funded emergency relief programme following the hurricanes (projects totalling EUR 4 million) and the subsequent longer-term development programmes adopted to support Cuban agriculture (including EUR 28 million of EU programmes adopted for Cuba in 2009 and 2010 under the Food Facility and the Food Security Thematic Programme). The IfS programme, adopted only months after the hurricanes, but also only months after the formal restart of EU cooperation with Cuba was signed in October 2008, as the first major EU non-humanitarian programme to benefit Cuba in the recent period. The activities of this programme were a tangible sign of both EU and Cuban commitment, and contributed toward building good relationships between the EU Delegation, the project operators and the Cuban authorities, paving the way for the rest of the EU's cooperation "package" for Cuba.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Democratic Republic
of Congo

Title of IfS Decision/Project || (1) Support for stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo through priority measures addressing security sector reform (2) Support to the operational capacity of the Congolese National Police to enhance pubic security in Kinshasa in the context of the upcoming national elections (3) Support for peace & stabilisation in eastern DR Congo || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Regional peacebuilding capacity & Security Sector Reform (SSR)

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 09/12/2011 (2) 18/05/2011 (3) 20/06/2008

Amount(s) || (1) 12,600,000 Contracted: by Dec 11, EUR  0 (2) EUR  2,000,000 Contracted: by Dec 11, EUR  1,879,000 Paid: by Dec 11, EUR  1,691,100 (3) EUR  10,000,000 Contracted: by Dec 11, EUR  9,999,095 Paid: by Dec 11, EUR  9.722.749 || Totals: by Dec 2011     Committed: EUR  24,600,000 Contracted: EUR  11 869 095 Paid: EUR  11 413 849

Start Date of Project || (1) First half of 2012 (2) May 2011 various projects starting from 17/11/2008

End Date || (1) expected various component end dates in 2013-2014 (2) August 2012 (3) various component end dates in 2010, police component June 2011

Context of Instability Over the last few years, there have been considerable improvements in the overall political and security situation within the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and an enhancement of cross-border relations with neighbours in the East. However, local security problems and tensions persist and a range of substantial challenges linked to society building still lie ahead. Such a major challenge depends on ensuring continued progress on overall Security Sector Reform (SSR), critical to the stability of the country and the reconstruction of Congolese society. During 2011, the context of instability was further exacerbated by the electoral process.  Amid widespread suspicions of electoral fraud and concerns regarding reduced transparency in the election process, there is a growing feeling of dissatisfaction with the democratic process among the population which can, in turn, lead to outbreak of violence and disorder in the capital and throughout the country. In addition, the weakened legitimacy of the President affects his capacity to pursue the necessary reforms. Thus, the context remains extremely fragile and could easily deteriorate, as many of the root causes of conflict have not been fully addressed, endangering the long term stabilisation and democratisation process in the DRC. Short Description The IfS is supporting security sector and stabilisation related actions in the DRC through: 1) A programme to support several civilian activities linked to Security System Reform (SSR) (EUR 12.6 million); 2) The “Support the operational capacity of the Congolese National Police to enhance pubic security in Kinshasa in the context of the upcoming national elections” project (EUR 2 million) and; 3) A programme in support of peace and stabilisation in eastern DRC; (EUR 10 million). Activities and State of Play (1) Projects are to be launched in the first half of 2012. However, the rapidly evolving political and security situation (see Context) and the establishment of a new government in April 2012 could delay the start of some planned activities. (2) This IfS project serves to: - Facilitate integration of the LENI (Legion Nationale d’Intervention) into the PNC (Police Nationale Congolaise) through improved communication capacity between LENI and  Police HQ; - Support the establishment and functioning of the LENI operational centres in Kinshasa; and - Raise communication capacity of four LENI battalions deployed in Kinshasa. (3)  The “Support for peace and stabilisation in eastern DRC” programme was comprised of four complementary components: a. Targeted policy and technical assistance in support of ongoing peace, stabilisation and reconciliation processes in eastern DRC; b. Promotion of confidence-building measures between the DRC and its eastern neighbours (particularly Rwanda), through improving cross-border cooperation on patrolling national parks straddling the borders of the DRC, Rwanda and Uganda; c. Improved security and access conditions for isolated or cut off rural communities through the opening up and reinstatement of targeted access roads in the Kivu provinces; d. Support for the deployment and establishment of Congolese national police in eastern DRC. Components a, b and c were completed in 2010 and component d in June 2011 with the rehabilitation of two local police stations supporting redeployment of the Congolese national police in eastern DRC. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response These IfS actions are complementary to EU-supported SSR activities under the European Development Fund (EDF) and implemented in close coordination with the two CSDP missions in the DRC, EUSEC and EUPOL.  In particular action (3) “Support for peace & stabilisation in Eastern DR Congo” also contributed directly to the wider UN ‘Stabilisation Plan’ for eastern Congo. In addition, the EU has provided significant humanitarian aid as well as supported wide-ranging recovery, reconstruction and development support in Eastern DRC under EDF.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Dominican Republic

Title of IfS Decision || Support Displaced Haitian population and host communities in the Dominican Republic || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Post-Disaster Recovery, Rule of Law, Reconciliation and Mediation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 27/06/2011

Amount(s) || Decided: 5,500,000 EUR Contracted: 5,199,737.69 EUR Paid: 3,874,529.12 EUR

Start Date of Project || 01/07/2011

End Date || 31/12/2012 (18 months)

Context of Instability The colossal earthquake which struck Haiti on January 2010 seriously destabilised the country and inevitably affected its neighbour, the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic shares with its poorer neighbour an island, a porous 350-kilometer-frontier and unavoidable common issues of environment, security and mass migration, most of which is irregular. Despite post-disaster fragile windows of opportunities for improved bilateral cooperation, there is a tense historical relationship between the two states, partly due to increased Haitian migration flows into usually already poor Dominican communities. These developments raise serious concerns about human rights of migrant Haitians and their descendants, in particular in the context of poor statistical information and a media culture generally hostile to human rights and migration issues. The incoming Presidential elections in May 2012 may exacerbate the already difficult situation of Haitian immigrants. Short Description This Instrument for Stability intervention consists of three complementary and innovative components. The largest component, implemented by UNHCR, provides comprehensive support to documentation work on migrants' rights, campaigns for diversity, social infrastructure works and training for the poor host communities. The second component, implemented by UNFPA, provides support for a long needed national survey, carried out by the Statistical Office of the Ministry of the Economy and Planning, with a view to understanding the size, structure, role and contribution of the immigrant workers to the economic and social life of the Dominican Republic and to enabling more effective social planning and a more objective policy debate. The third component, implemented by PUCMM, the leading university, aims to improve the media coverage of the currently badly handled but sensitive issues of migration. Activities and State of Play By the end of 2011 all three components were in full swing. Three local partners have been contracted under the first component: The Alliance for the Open Society, ASCALA and GARR - a Haitian NGO specialised in migration. The Open Society organised eight workshops on the documentation rights. ASCALA held five literacy workshops and one police training seminar, and implemented one food security project. GARR recruited and placed a worker inside the Haitian Civil Registry to facilitate the generation of original Haitian documents for Haitians in the Dominican Republic. The campaign promoting tolerance and inter-communal dialogue received the public support of the Ministry of Culture and was launched by a well attended concert in the capital, performed by a mixture of Dominican and Haitian artists. Regarding the component implemented by UNFPA, there is constructive cooperation between the Government and UNFPA, which is enabling positive results to be achieved. A Consultative Committee has been designated and good progress was made with the design of a methodology and a calendar for the survey to be carried out. Civil society organisations will play a central role in supporting the national statistics office for the implementation of this component. To prepare the implementation of the third component, the PUCCM contacted the directors of important media outlets and schools of journalism and began joint work on the content of the campaign. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS action provides an instrumental bridge between EU's humanitarian disaster and immediate relief work and the longer term development support. The wider EU cooperation programme for the Dominican Republic addresses sustainable development and stability through public administration reform, sector budget support for public education, bilateral cooperation (between Dominican Republic and Haiti) and human rights protection, in particular of Haitian migrants or their descendants.  The IfS intervention is complementary to other development cooperation assistance provided by the EU. EU assistance represents more than half of the entire public development assistance provided to the Dominican Republic.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Ecuador

Title of IfS Decision || Strengthening Human Security in the Northern Border Area of Ecuador (FOSIN) || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Crisis Response and Preparedness. Exceptional Assistance measure to reduce violence and strengthen human security

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 10/06/2010

Amount(s) || EUR  3,000,000 contracted and paid

Start Date of Project || 01/08/2010

End Date || 31/07/2012

Context of Instability The events which took place on 30 September 2010, when state of emergency was declared amid 'coup attempt', have been an unexpected obstacle to the implementation of the project activities, with implications in the short and medium term. Those events have notably increased the volatility of the authorities participating in the IfS action, such as the Ministry of Security, the Ministry of Interior and Technical Secretariat of Plan Ecuador (STPE). For example, in January 2011, the STPE was threatened of dissolution and partial integration into the Armed Forces, a situation which impeded the fulfilment of its role as facilitator of the inter-agency coordination. Whereas the political relations between Ecuador and Colombia have substantially improved since October 2010, political-institutional conditions on the northern border have become more complicated. Short Description The IfS action aims at (1) Strengthening capacities among state institutions and civil society in order to confront the security crisis situation, (2) Improving the protection of the basic human rights of highly vulnerable population groups and (3) Encouraging dialogue processes between the population and public authorities on both sides of the border, including social and economic peace-building measures and fostering a peaceful culture. Activities and State of Play Under the first objective, a partnership with the Association of Ecuadorian Municipalities (AME) was established to promote the adoption of bylaws for setting up the Municipal Citizen Security Councils (CSCM). A security diagnosis is being developed in the three northern border provinces in order to make the CSCM operational. The mayors of three northern municipalities of the province of Esmeraldas (San Lorenzo, Eloy Alfaro and Rioverde) agreed to contribute from the local budget to the set-up of a "mancomunidad" (partnership) around the security issue, with the support of the IfS project. The project also provides support to local governments for the development of funding strategies in the field of public security. Training and technical support will be provided to the Observatory for Public Security in the province of Sucumbíos. A series of training modules on constructive transformation of conflicts were organised and initiated for 60 officers selected by the Chief of the Joint Command of the Armed Forces and civilian officials of the Ministry of Defence, in the framework of capacity building and binational development under the Plan Ecuador. Under the second objective, partnerships with local and national Civil Society Organisations, the Ecuadorian Centre for Development and Alternative Studies, and the Federation of Women Sucumbíos have been strengthened with a view to facilitating the implementation of income-generating projects that facilitate the inclusion of victims of violence. A study on women trafficking for sexual exploitation in the provinces of Sucumbíos, Esmeraldas, Imbabura and Carchi has been carried out and its result presented to the authorities in November 2011. As a result, an inter-institutional working group on human trafficking was set up by the Sub-secretariat for Democratic Guarantees of the Ministry of Interior and started to make specific proposals in the field, such as to amend the Criminal Code. In addition, support is provided to two cantons (Eloy Alfaro in Esmeraldas and Sucumbíos Alto in Sucumbíos) for the implementation of municipal bylaws on gender mainstreaming. Under the third objective, the project supported the production of an entertaining educational audiovisual product which enables working on critical topics through a fictional story. Codes of peaceful coexistence have been developed and implemented in six schools of the Northern Border provinces and instruments for monitoring the implementation of the codes were subsequently developed. In addition, support was provided to the Ministry of Defence for building the capacity of its Gender Unit in the Directorate of Human Rights. As part of cross-border integration mechanisms, the project also provided support to the Épera Siapidara nationality for the implementation of a project that aims to strengthen governance within the community. At the request of the Governments of the Carchi and Sucumbíos provinces, the project implemented a series of trainings in the area of ​​conflict management. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Synergies have been developed with three ongoing EIDHR-CBSS projects. The GIZ, the implementing partner of the IfS project, ensures appropriate collaboration (production of TV programme and inclusion of the gender violence issue in the diagnosis of security and cantonal plans for citizens' security) with its own Regional Programme "Combating Domestic Violence against Women in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia and Paraguay " implemented on behalf of Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development - BMZ. Moreover, a close connection with the regional program PROINDIGENA was established, in particular on issues related to the protection of indigenous peoples as victims of the Colombian conflict.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Egypt

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support Activities to the Electoral Processes in Egypt (2) Support Democratisation in Egypt (3) Media Monitoring || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || (1) Assistance to Transition (electoral processes) (2) Assistance to transition (capacity building of civic actors; support to civil society actors)

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || (1) 17/06/2010 (2)1/04/2011

Total Amount(s) || (1) EUR  1,203,431.00 Contracted: EUR  1,203,431.00 Paid: EUR  962,744,80.00 (2) EUR  1,716,235,1.00                                                        Contracted: EUR  1,716,235.1                              Paid: EUR  883,370.51

Start Dates of Projects || (1) 20/09/11 (2) 12/04/2011 & 13/11/2011

End Dates of Projects || (1) 20/09/2012 (2) 12/10/2012 & 24/04/2012

Context of Instability Unprecedented massive popular discontent erupted on 25 January 2011. On February 11th, after 18 days of protests, President Hosny Mubarak resigned, handing over power to the Supreme Council of Armed Forces (SCAF). The SCAF is currently overseeing democratic transition until its powers are transferred to a new democratically elected President by the end of June 2012. A first revision of the Constitution was undertaken in March 2011, Parliamentary elections and Upper House elections were held in late 2011 and early 2012. The parliament had failed to form a constituent assembly to draft a new Constitution. The SCAF and the parliament have deferred talks on presidential powers until after the first round of Presidential elections (23-24 May 2012) but it appears unlikely that a new Constitution could be drafted and adopted by referendum before the SCAF hands power to the new President by end of June. The changes and challenges these events have set in motion are of historic proportions carrying  the hope of a better life for the people of Egypt. Civil society organisations (CSOs) have a key role to play in shaping the reform agenda. 30 years of Emergency Law and restrictive non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and Trade Union legislation have effectively  restricted freedom of association and assembly as well as the institutional capacities of CSOs. Egyptian transition authorities have also been confronted by an unprecedented challenge in having to manage a complex and politically charged electoral process. Although official foreign observation was not requested by the transition authoritiries, international support was needed to ensure that elections could draw on international best practice and standards. Consequently, the EU set up two large scale, rapid and short-term capacity building programmes to faciiltate and support Egyptian CSOs and transition authorities respectively during this critical tranistion period. Short Description and Objectives (1) Support Activities to the Electoral Processes in Egypt This action aims to: provide knowledge-based capacity building to the High Elections Commission; support voter education campaigns through civil society organisations; support the development of domestic electoral witnesses; support the drafting of a new Constitution; and disseminate a series of publications on election management best practices. (2) Support Democratisation in Egypt The specific objectives of the programme are to: support CSOs in responding quickly to the transitional situation (such as lobbying policy makers on political reforms and reporting on them); to help create and foster linkages between civil society and civic interest groups that formed during the protests; and to work with Egyptian actors to support them in providing the Egyptian public with analysis on the political reforms undertaken during the transition. (3) Media Monitoring The specific objective of this action is to produce a detailed daily review of the most influential news papers, publications, talk shows, radio programmes and blogs on all matters related to the Parliamentary and Shura election processes in Egypt. The media review is shared with all Egyptian civil society partners and addresses their structural incapacity to properly follow-up and monitor the transition media environment. Activities and State of Play (1) Support Activities to the Electoral Processes in Egypt The action has provided training to judges (tasked with overseeing the elections), support to the High Electoral Commission set-up for the Parliamentary elections and has also helped in providing training to 62 domestic electoral witnesses throughout the country. Two key publications of IDEA International, covering various aspects of election process cycle management, were translated into Arabic and widely disseminated to institutional and non-state actors.  (2) Support Democratisation in Egypt To date, the action has largely been supporting local CSOs in engaging with the political transition and has done so through workshops, training sessions and various thematic publications.  It has supported the analysis of electoral laws and advocacy for change and professional observation of, and reporting on, elections. 15 workshops were organised, directly targetting 305 Egyptian CSO workers. 16 publications were created, ranging across editorials (academic, issues papers, status reports). (3) Media Monitoring in Egypt A daily comprehensive media review is widely disseminated to CSOs and placed on the EU Delegation website. Weekly sets of analytical charts, analysing major political and party figure presence in the Egyptian media, are disseminated to CSOs.  The media review and charts have helped CSOs keep track of the developing media environment, offering them a comprehensive picture of transition, election coverage and their immediate implications for CSO work. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response IfS support in Egypt is in line with overall EU and international efforts to support political transition. The IfS has provided the necessary bridging between support to Civil Society Programme allocated through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) and the Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI) as well as the bilateral support provided through the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI).

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Georgia

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support to Mitigate the Consequences of the recent armed Conflict in Georgia (CRIS 2008/20612) (2) Support confidence building measures and de-conflicting after the armed conflict in Georgia in August 2008 (CRIS 2009/21737) (3) The European Partnership for the Peaceful Settlement of the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh (under the 3rd Policy advice and Mediation Facility, CRIS 2009/21842) (4) Support for Georgian efforts to overcome its political crises and to deepen its democratic reforms (CRIS 2010/22374) || Copyright UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Post-conflict assistance, confidence building measures, technical assistance

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 05/12/2008 (2) 22/07/2009 || (3) 05/08/2009 (4) 15/04/2010

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  15.000.000 Contracted: EUR  14.983.660,39 Paid: EUR  14.742.706,95 (2) EUR  14.000.000 Contracted: EUR  13.670.237,66 Paid: EUR  13.488.768,66 || (3) EUR  2.000.000 (out of EUR  10.000.000) Contracted: EUR  2.000.000 Paid: EUR  1.770.000 (4) EUR  7.850.000 Contracted: EUR  7.844.999,99 Paid: EUR  6.371.316,35

Totals || Committed: EUR  38.850.000; Contracted: EUR  38.498.898,04; Paid: EUR  36.372.791,96

Start Date of Project || (1) 05/12/2008; (2) 22/07/2009; (3) 01/06/2010; (4) 15/04/2010

End Date (final date for contracting) || (1) 31/12/2009; (2) 31/12/2010; (3) 31/12/2010; (4) 31/12/2011

Context of Instability Since the break-up of the Soviet Union, two unresolved conflicts in the Georgian regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, have undermined stability in Georgia. Both entities seek independence from Georgia, while the EU and the vast majority of international actors firmly supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders. A period of growing tensions in both breakaway regions escalated in August 2008, when war broke out between Georgia and Russia and separatist groups from South Ossetia and Abkhazia.  After mediation by the European Union, the parties reached a ceasefire agreement on 12 August 2008 and the subsequent Implementing Measures of 8 September 2008. After the August 2008 war, Russia recognized the independence of the two breakaway regions, which has since then been recognised by Nicaragua, Venezuela, Nauru and Tuvalu (their independence is also mutually recognised by Transnistria, Nagorno Karabakh and by each other). An EU monitoring mission (EUMM) was established on 15 September 2008 and is still in place. The overall situation along the Administrative Boundary Lines last year was relatively calm. Shooting and explosion incidents recorded by EUMM continuously decreased, but serious incidents continue to occur and the situation remains volatile. In the framework of the "Modalities for Conducting Activities in the Occupied Territories of Georgia", adopted by the Georgian Government under the Law on Occupied Territories, and its Action Plan in October 2010, some concrete results have been reported. However, this legislative package is perceived by the breakaway regions as an aggressive policy from Tbilisi. Some of the actions by Georgia, such as the introduction of Status Neutral Travel Documents and Identity Cards and the planned Trust Fund, are likely to jeopardise ongoing and future activities in/with the breakaway regions, particularly as refers the possibility for the population of these territories to travel abroad. The impact of the IfS interventions can be considered as high. The three IfS packages for Georgia have progressively moved from strict post-conflict relief (strong focus on shelter to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the first one) to more long-term measures (strengthening of media, confidence building through civil society initiatives, capacity building to the State Ministry for Reintegration, etc, in the third). This trend will be confirmed with the adoption, during the first semester of 2012, of an Interim Response Programme (Georgia IV), which will consolidate the results achieved. The use of IfS in Georgia remains necessary, particularly taking into account the present tense political environment, where both the Georgian Government and the Abkhaz de facto authorities are toughening their positions and the South Ossetian de facto leadership is seeking closer cooperation with Russia and almost sealing off the territory from Georgia proper. At the same time negotiations over Nagorno-Karabakh in the Minsk Group under the auspices of the OSCE are not yielding the expected results, and peace-building attempts are being systematically politicised. There are rare contacts between the divided communities and violent incidents occur regularly. Only a few isolated initiatives from international NGOs (apart from the below-described IfS project) are in place to support and strengthen civil society. Short Description (1) Support to Mitigate the Consequences of the recent armed Conflict in Georgia – This programme aims at supporting IDPs and returnees and integrating them into Georgian society, in particular on winterization of housing, and on early recovery activities, which were identified in the UN Flash Appeal (carried out in October 2008).  One aim is to remove the long-term threat to the political stability of the country that the large IDP and returnee population, who long to return to their former homes and tend to be dissatisfied with the status quo, poses. (2) Support confidence building measures and de-conflicting after the armed conflict in Georgia in August 2008 – The programme has 4 components: (i) confidence building and people-to-people contacts in Georgia, including in South Ossetia and Abkhazia, in order to help provide the ground for a long-term solution to the conflict, (ii) political reform in Georgia, in order to mitigate the conflict between opposition and government in Georgia, (iii) the socio-economic integration of IDPs, and (iv) provide assistance in Abkhazia, in particular to civil society capacity building and support to returnees in Gali district. (3) The European Partnership for the Peaceful Settlement of the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – The objective of this project is, in partnership with local and civil political actors, to enact initiatives which will cumulatively contribute to a peaceful settlement over Nagorno-Karabakh. The project focuses on three areas: § Increase capacity of a range of mass media groups as well as alternative media sources to provide balanced and challenging media coverage which reduces attitudinal barriers to progressing conflict resolution. § Strengthen the capacity of conflict affected groups to engage in conflict resolution processes, contributing to the cumulative growth of a critical mass of social groups actively engaged in the peace process. § Facilitate an inclusive and effective public policy environment in support of a negotiated settlement. (4) Support for Georgian efforts to overcome its political crises and to deepen its democratic reforms – This IfS intervention is intended to support Georgia in its efforts to overcome its current political crises and deepen its democratic reforms as an important factor in long-term conflict resolution. It will support activities in five areas: § Election Media Support; § Support to a planned repatriation and integration process of the Muslim Meskhetians; § Confidence Building Early Response Mechanism; § Support to the State Ministry of Reintegration; § Introducing the concept of transitional justice in the Georgian-Abkhaz context. Activities and State of Play (1) Support to Mitigate the Consequences of the recent armed Conflict in Georgia - All contracts under this decision have been finalised. The decision is not yet closed due to administrative requirements. (2) Support confidence building measures and de-conflicting after the armed conflict in Georgia in August 2008– The projects signed under this decision aimed strongly at supporting the socio-economic reintegration of IDPs. Other actions focused on strengthening the media, confidence building measures, enhancing the electoral system and community mobilisation. Mechanisms are in place that allow for a permanent coordination among the IfS projects and with other actors present in the area, including international and local NGOs, donors and IOs. All projects have come to an end and 21 out of the 25 have already been closed. (3) The European Partnership for the Peaceful Settlement of the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – This project worked in and on Nagorno-Karabakh (NK). Despite the concerns and even objections expressed mostly by the Armenian Government at the beginning, the project managed to achieve its goals through a wide variety of activities: publications on conflict related issues, fostering the discussion on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and conflict settlement process in social networks, production and screening of a documentary film, conducting peace-building trainings and workshops, conducting comparative conflict studies and visits, training of journalists, exhibitions and events, public policy discussions, advocacy and dialogue with governmental and other stakeholders, including the EU, etc. The project came to an end in December 2011. (4) Support for Georgian efforts to overcome its political crises and to deepen its democratic reforms – Four actions were identified for this decision: (i) Policy Advice to Georgia's State Ministry for Reintegration - in collaboration with the EUSR; (ii) Supporting the repatriation of persons deported from Georgia in the 1940's and their descendants; (iii) Development of Media monitoring; and (iv) the joint EU/UN Confidence Building Early Response Mechanism (COBERM). The initial budget of the latter two was increased in 2011 and three out of the four actions have been extended for six additional months. COBERM has shown to be an extremely valuable tool, with more than 300 project ideas having been received and a total of 62 contracts signed. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS actions in Georgia were developed in cooperation with and complementary to the EUSR and the EUMM monitoring mission activities. The flexibility innate to IfS has been key in allowing the EU to be present in the conflict-affected areas (particularly Abkhazia) and to pave the way for other stakeholders (local and international NGOs, and other donors) to start/boost their activities in Abkhazia, after years where the EU was virtually the only donor present. The adoption of the forthcoming Interim Response Programme will allow for a consolidation of these results. At the same time, IfS is not to be withdrawn from Georgia, since the political climate does not yet allow for regular development assistance to fully take over. On the contrary, tensions seem to be rising and the "official" positions of Tbilisi, Tskhinvali and Sukhumi are growing even further apart.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Haiti

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Institutionalising capacity of Non State Actors for Peace building and Delivery of conflict sensitive Humanitarian Assistance (2) Human Rights Networks Peace Building Capacity Project  (3) Programme to Support the Restoration of the Haitian Government's Crisis Preparedness Capacity (4) Programme in Support of Presidential and Legislative Elections || Copyright: UN ReliefWeb

Type of measure || Reconciliation, Capacity Building, elections

Date of Adoption of IfS Decisions || (1) 31/03/2008; (2) 31/03/2008; (3) 27/07/2010; (4) 19/10/2010

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  750,000; Contracted: EUR  750,000; Paid: EUR  371,141.40  (2) EUR  589,598; Contracted: EUR  589,598; Paid: EUR  471,678.60 (3) EUR  20,000,000 Contracted: EUR  19,999,990; Paid: EUR  17,668,996.21 (4) EUR  5,000,000; Contracted:  EUR   5,000,000; Paid: EUR  4,500,000.00

Start Date of Project || (1) 01/04/2009; (2) 01/04/2009; (3) 01/10/2010; (4) 20/10/2010

End Date || (1) 30/06/2012; (2) 30/09/2012; (3) 01/04/2012; (4) 20/04/2012

Context of Instability Haitian progress towards becoming a more democratic and prosperous state since the collapse of the Duvalier dictatorship has been unsteady. Instability and economic deterioration under a series of military and civilian governments, exacerbated by episodic coup d'états, have characterised the country's recent history. Periods of relative stability often end due to external factors such as soaring world prices for food and fuel in 2008, the periodic devestating hurricanes or the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on 12 January 2010.  According to official government estimates over 230.000 people lost their lives and an additional 300.000 were injured. In some parts of the country up to 90% of buildings were destroyed leaving more than one million people homeless. The earthquake also considerably weakened the capacity of the authorities to administer and advance the country. Well advanced constitutional reforms and the calendar of electoral exercises were put on hold as many experienced staff as well as vital infrastructures had perished. In 2011 the most immediate humanitarian needs were addressed but the country was still characterised by massive recovery and reconstruction challenges. The political crisis continued, a long and contentious electoral process only resulted in a functioning government in October 2011. The low voter turn out illustrates the lack of trust Haitian citizens have in an administration that struggles to maintain unity. Issues such as the gradual drawdown of MINUSTAH, the plans for rebuilding a Haitian army or the impunity of former President Duvalier illustrate that Haiti remains an unstable country. Short Description (1) : Institutionalising capacity of Non State Actors for Track II and III Peace building and Delivery of conflict sensitive Humanitarian Assistance: aims to reduce levels of violent conflict in urban areas and more effective peace building in Haiti. The project also develops and document best practice for the transformation of protracted social conflict and for conflict sensitive interventions in fragile states. (2) Human Rights Networks Peace Building Capacity Project: fosters cooperation within civil society by strengthening the organizational and technical capacities of the National Network of Human Rights Defence. (3) Programme to Support the Restoration of the Haitian Government's Crisis Preparedness Capacity: support to institutions and communities affected by the January 2010 earthquake by (1) reinforcing civil protection systems, (2) encouraging political dialogue, (3)  providing cash for work opportunities. (4) Programme in Support of Presidential and Legislative Elections: Support to difficult presidential and legislative elections in 2010 and 2011. Activities and State of Play (1) After the earthquake in 2010 many prisoners escaped from prison and hid in the urban communities where the project is active. The fragile peace achieved partly as a result of this project was at risk of being toppled. At the same time, many of the community volunteers who had been formed were now being recruited into responsible positions helping with the reconstruction of their communities, reducing the time they could spend mediating conflicts. In 2011 this situation was addressed, new volunteers were formed and activities were extended to two further urban neighborhoods, engaging actors also through the collaborative creation of employment opportunities. Early warning systems on conflict were put in place and a study visit to Ireland and Jamaica for peace building leaders was organized in Nov. 2011. (2) Ten departmental structures of the National Network of Human Rights Defence have been created and strengthened by the project through trainings for member organization (in 2011, amongst others, on HR, women’s empowerment, project management, conflict management); support in kind (office equipment and furniture); financial support (contribution to office rent); allowing for more and improved monitoring of human rights and a more adequate mediation capacity. The project continues into 2012 to complete activities that were delayed due to the situation in the aftermath of the earthquake. (3) The Haitian system of risks and disasters management is supported by providing 140 municipalities with at least one container of first aid equipment each. A total of 300 containers will have been distributed and more than 3,000 local volunteers will have been trained in the use of the material provided. The building of a permanent operational crisis cell and the strengthening of the crisis communication capacity at national and local levels complements the effort made at community level. The Club de Madrid organized five high-level events where global leaders met with Haitian leaders to help them forge a clearer perspective of the country’s future. In December 2011, one event gathered the main political, civil and economic actors around the table for the first time since the earthquake. On other occasions the activities focused on specific concerns such as constitutional and electoral reform or, most recently, on investment policy. Finally, a cash for work programme, implemented through UNDP, made a direct contribution to the restoration of livelihoods, creating more than 158.000 temporary jobs throughout the entire country. All project components will end in 2012. (4). The programme helped to organise the presidential and legislative elections. In conjunction with UNDP and other international partners, electoral materials were acquired, the IT infrastructure improved, staff were trained and voters could verify their data on the electoral lists, receive voter information and civic education or take their concerns to an electoral dispute resolution mechanism. The project concluded in April 2011. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response IfS Interventions in Haiti are in line with EU strategy and complement interventions under the European Development Fund (EDF), and those by EU Member States. Since 2006, Haiti has been identified as a fragile-state and the Instrument for Stability has been asked to complement development-cooperation actions (under EDF & other instruments) to respond to political crisis and, since the January 2010 earthquake to assisst the non-humanitarian aspects of the reconstruction effort.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability (IfS)
Programmes in

Honduras

Title of IfS Decision || Promoting Democratic Governance and Reconciliation in Honduras ||

Type of measure || Reconciliation, Capacity Building, elections

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 08/07/2010

Amount(s) || EUR  1.150.000,00 EUR Contracted: EUR  1.150.000,00 Paid: EUR  1,108,590.00

Start Date of Project || 01/09/2010 ||

End Date || 30/06/2012 ||

Context of Instability Honduras has recently experienced its deepest political, institutional and social crisis since democracy was restored in the early 1980s. On 28 June 2009, the Honduran armed forces intervened in political life, forcing the democratically-elected President Manuel Zelaya into exile. On the same day, the Honduran Congress deposed Zelaya and the President of Congress, Roberto Micheletti, was nominated interim President, leading a de facto Government for the next 7 months. The general election held in November 2009 was conducted in a generally transparent manner and marked a turning point in the resolution of the crisis. The election of President Lobo Sosa and his programme of national reconciliation have brought institutional stability. Although the overall political situation of the country remains fragile, with serious economic and democratic challenges and weaknesses regarding the protection of human rights and freedom of expression. Such a situation constitutes a major threat, especially in view of the forthcoming primary elections to be held in 2012. Short Description The project supports the ongoing national reconciliation process with view to strengthening the country’s democratic institutions and implementing necessary social and political reforms. Its specific objectives are:   1) To strengthen democratic governance by facilitating the establishment of platforms for social and political dialogue. 2) To promote respect for human rights by strengthening the regulatory mechanisms for human rights actors. 3) To support national reconciliation through technical assistance to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission established in May 2010. 4) To build-up conflict prevention capacities of media actors in order to facilitate their participation in the reconciliation process. Activities and State of Play The project covers 4 components:   1) Political Platforms for dialogue and reforms: establishment of platforms for social and political dialogue among national, regional and local actors on essential political and institutional reforms, including strengthening civil society capacity to effectively participate in platforms. The action supports the Supreme Electoral Tribunal in the organization of public information workshops and consultations on political and electoral reforms. It led discussions with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), the National Congress and the Government about possible reforms. Some ongoing analytical works related to the political/institutional situation (prospective PAPEP project) were financed. Two international experts conducted a high-level fact-finding mission to discuss the necessary conditions for the development of a political platform for dialogue and reforms. The project supported the creation of a Follow-up Unit dedicated to the implementation of TRC's recommendations, by contracting the Regional Coordinator and the Principal Advisor. Support to the Supreme Electoral Tribunal continues, in view of electoral reforms. 2) Strengthening of the National System for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights: this includes research and assessment, promotion of dialogue and technical support for the development of a national human rights strategy led by the Government; support for the implementation of the relevant Constitutional provisions and enabling civil society to regain confidence in national mechanisms, so as to ensure that some key law projects, on reparation of victims of HR violations and on the establishment of the 'forced disappearance' penal typology, are aligned with international standards. Discussions with the Human Rights Commission of the National Congress, the Minister for Human Rights, National Committee on Prevention of Torture, Special Prosecutor for Human Rights and civil society organizations, resulted in agreement on joint development initiatives and provision of technical and political support for the creation of the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights. Additionally, a review process for the publication of international human rights instruments has been launched. It is important to note that this component is implemented by the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. 3) Support to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission established in May 2010 to assist in analyzing the past events, recollection of information related to human rights violations. Within the mandate of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), a team of 4 high level experts was contracted in order to investigate the complaints of human rights violations. Their report (finalized in early 2011) was an important part of the TRC's final report, published in July 2011. 4) Media participation in the Reconciliation process:  The project implemented a campaign to accompany the presentation and socialization of the TRC's report at regional level. It also organized a round of working meetings with journalists, editors and public opinion makers, in different cities. The subject of such meetings was "The role of mass media in the strengthening of citizenship and of reconciliation processes". A High level forum on this same subject will be organized in 2012. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The IfS action is consistent with parallel EU initiatives to provide support to selected NGOs and Human Rights defenders under the EIDHR as well as an ongoing EU integrated support programme for the security sector. The action is expected to help ease tensions in the country and to contribute to the implementation of the key priority areas of the EU development cooperation identified in the Country Strategy Paper for Honduras, particularly the support to security and justice sectors, social cohesion and poverty reduction. Very few donors are working on governance and the International Response to the crisis has been limited in term of cooperation projects, except in the Human Rights field where the IfS action is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the institutional framework for promotion and defence of human rights.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Indonesia

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Aceh Peace Process Follow-Up (2) Accompanying Measures in Indonesia for the Aceh Peace Process ||

Type of measure || Reconciliation, Mediation and Political Dialogue

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 5/08/2009 (2) 24/11/2010

Amount(s) ||  (1) EUR  610,000 Contracted: EUR  610,000 Paid: EUR   549,000 (2) EUR  3,500,000 Contracted: EUR   3,499,998 Paid: EUR   2,340,243

Start Date of Project ||  (1) 2/6/2010 (2) 12/2010

End Date || (1) 1/06/2012 (2) 7/2012

Context of Instability The signing in Helsinki of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Indonesia and the Free Aceh Movement (GAM) on 15 August 2005 brought an end to three decades of conflict in Aceh. The European Union was closely engaged in supporting peace in Aceh by: i) supporting the peace talks; ii) monitoring the peace agreement with monitors from the European Union and five ASEAN member countries; iii) deploying an Election Observation Mission to observe the local elections in December 2006; iv) assisting with the implementation of the MoU through the EC "Aceh Peace Process Support programme and v) supporting the reinsertion and reintegration of ex-combatants and amnestied prisoners. These earlier actions were complemented in 2008 with further support to Aceh governance through the IfS "Aceh Governance Stabilization Initiative". The EU priority has been to assist local actors and structures to build sufficient capacity to sustain the peace process. Although Aceh's institutions had suffered from 30 years of conflict there were huge expectations from the population of delivering concrete benefits of peace, not least given the new law on special autonomy, giving Aceh significant control over its own resources. Unfortunately the Parliament, and not least the civil service, are still under-performing and appear ill-equipped to tackle the challenges the Province is facing, including those related to governance and economic development. Thus, the EU through the IfS, decided in 2010 to renew its engagement in the peace process at political level, supporting some key measures. Short Description The objective of IfS activities in Indonesia has been to contribute to safeguarding a stable and sustainable post-conflict environment in Aceh. The Aceh Peace Process Follow-Up Project (1), aims to increase trust between the parties and stakeholders to sustain the peace process through the improvement of communication channels and the consolidation of existing conciliation mechanisms. The Accompanying Measures programme (2) supports local governance reform, police reform, re-integration of ex-combatants and monitoring, analysis and coordination. Activities and State of Play (1) An initial roundtable discussion between the two parties, initiated by the Crisis Management Initiative (CMI) (former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari) took place on 25 May 2011, followed by new rounds of discussions in September and December. Although relations were strained at the earlier meetings, the December round-table led to an agreement on a two-day session, with separate discussions on the five main outstanding issues in the MoU in January 2012. The parties agreeing on appropriate working procedures to follow MoU implementation represents notable progress, as previously, even getting the parties to participate in any discussions with each other had been difficult. The parties have agreed to holding meetings every three months and a special auditing group has been established with representatives from both signatory parties. This group will collect information on MoU implementation from key representatives of the signatories and key counterparts in the districts. (2) The accompanying measures are largely proceeding according to schedule. For example, the Aceh District Response Facility project (ADRF) has achieved tangible results related to local governance, including strengthening coherence, effectiveness and efficiency of public finance management and budgeting at provincial and district legislatures. The project has also been instrumental in relation to initiating environmentally-sustainable economic development strategies around the Leuser area. Support to the consolidation of police reform in Aceh has been widely appreciated from the Police Department as well as from districts and the activities supported will this year be taken over by the provincial budget. The actions funded have improved relations between the police and ordinary citizens in Aceh, not least the 'Police schools visit programme’.  Under this programme officers visit schools to explain their role in society and various aspects of community policing in an attempt to reduce the distance between younger generations and the police. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and international Response Current IfS activities in Aceh build upon and consolidate previous and ongoing EU support for the Aceh Peace Process, provided since 2005. While the situation in Aceh continues to improve, key democratic institutions remain weak with rising corruption and a tense political environment. In this challenging context it is clear that the projects funded under the IfS have had a tangible and positive impact on Aceh society, whether relating to improved relations between the police and local communities or an enhanced capacity of staff in the planning and legal departments of provincial and district governments.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Côte D'Ivoire

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support to the functioning of Alassane Ouattara's administration (2) Support to legislative elections and national reconciliation ||

Type of measure || (1) Post conflict recovery (2) Election support; reconciliation and mediation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || (1) 07/04/2011 || (2) 12/10/2011

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  1,000,000 Contracted: EUR  1,000,000 Paid: EUR  400,000 || (2) EUR  11,000,000 Contracted: EUR  7,065,349 Paid: EUR  3,934,651

Start Date of Project || 18/07/2011 || 12/10/2011

End Date || 17/08/2012 || June 2014

Context of Instability Over the last ten years, Côte d'Ivoire has suffered from internal conflict and instability, which escalated in a countrywide crisis after the presidential elections in November 2010 – the first ones since 2000. The then incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo refused to cede power to the internationally recognised winner of the elections, Alassane Ouattara. The post-election crisis lasted nearly five months, resulting in more than 3,000 deaths, paralysing the country's economy and causing a humanitarian crisis in the sub-region with more than 150,000 refugees in Liberia and one million internally displaced people. The internal conflict ended in April 2011 with the arrest of Laurent Gbagbo. The legislative elections of 11 December 2011, followed by by-elections of 26 February 2012, imply the gradual normalisation of the political system in Côte d'Ivoire. Overall, these elections were conducted properly, despite some incidents of violence and the boycott by the party of the former President. These elections will now allow for the constitution of a new National Assembly, which is a major step given that the country has been without a functioning parliament since 2005. Though progress has been made, the security situation remains volatile. The disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration (DDR) process has not yet been launched and incidents between armed forces and the local population continue. The aims and objectives of the Truth, Dialogue and Reconciliation Commission are not very clear. The Commission is increasingly accused of being partial to the new government. Structural causes of the Ivorian crisis, including land issues and those related to citizenship, remain and are partly revived by the return of displaced persons and the arrival of new migrants from the sub-region. National cohesion will depend largely on the ability and willingness of Ivorians to forge a political consensus on these sensitive issues. After a civil war, several years of political stalemate and the more recent post-election, the process of national reconciliation will be long and complex.  Short Description (1) The aim of this measure is to contribute to the socio-economic recovery of Côte d'Ivoire by supporting the Ouattara administration to effectively carry out its electoral mandate in the post-crisis context. To this end, a pool of short-term expertise has been made ​​available to several key ministries of the Ivorian government. (2) The second programme aims to contribute to the stabilization of Côte d'Ivoire through (i) support to the preparation and organisation of the legislative elections; and (ii) support to the national reconciliation process. Activities and State of Play (1) Experts in the areas of security sector reform, justice, finance, employment (youth), communication and administration reform have been mobilized and have assisted the government in analysing sectoral issues and developing sectoral strategies. (2) Activities under the election component included technical assistance to the Independent Electoral Commission, procurement of equipment, secure transport and storage of electoral materials as well as support to civil society for domestic election observation. Activities under the reconciliation component started in February 2012. This component aims at supporting transitional justice initiatives, enhanced media awareness and conflict-sensitive reporting, conflict resolution related to land disputes and strengthening the role of women in the peace process. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Given the magnitude of the challenges the country is facing and the expectations of the population of the new government, the Instrument for Stability support was crucial to assist the most urgent priorities in helping to stabilise the country. The legislative elections could be held in a timely and orderly manner. By April, new democratic representation structures should be in place. The newly elected representatives will have a key role to address the many challenges for long-term stability of Côte d'Ivoire. Moreover, this support should contribute to the effective start of the national reconciliation process. Other priorities of the transitional period (justice, security) are being addressed by the EU through other financial instruments, notably the European Development Fund.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Kazakhstan

Title of IfS Decision || Support for the Election Process in Kazakhstan ||

Type of measure || Election Support

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 7 October 2011

Amount(s) || 1.68 mln EUR (contracted: 1,121,581 EUR) (1) 293,817 EUR (2) 327,764 EUR (3) 500,000 EUR

Start Date of Project || (1) December 2011 (2) December 2011 (3) January 2012

End Date || (1) April 2012  (2) June 2012  (3) November 2012

Context of Instability Following Kazakhstan's early Presidential elections in April 2011, the country has faced its most significant social tensions in the last twenty years. In the course of 2011, the government struggled to control oil worker strikes in the West of the country, resulting in violent protest and loss of human life in Zhanaozen in December 2011. Furthermore, incidents that were alleged to be terrorist attacks took place in various regions of Kazakhstan for the first time, indicating that religious extremism may become a new factor to be reckoned with. Hence the parliamentary elections brought forward to January 2012 were expected to take place in a tense atmosphere. Short Description The project has three components addressing a number of weaknesses in the electoral process in Kazakhstan: (1) The component on "Domestic election monitoring and civic education" is implemented by the Republican Network of the Independent Monitors (RNIM) to organise long and short-term observation in large parts of the country. (2) The component "Kazakh Media for Fair and Stable Elections" implemented by Internews Europe Association works on the empowerment of independent Kazakh media to encourage civil society participation in electoral debates. (3) The component "Assistance to the Central Election Commission (CEC)" implemented by the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe focuses on building the capacity of the CEC and on improving the capacity of Kazakhstan to reform its electoral legislation. Activities and State of Play All three components only started late in the year and two have held their principal activities in early 2012. (1) The component on "Domestic election monitoring and civic education"  successfully organised long-term and short-term observation missions during the January 2012 elections and the results of the observation were given in a clear and outspoken manner during press-conferences. It is foreseen that the final election observation report will be distributed and will include recommendations to improve the conduct of elections. The component reinforced the capacities of local NGOs to undertake independent observation and contribute to a more democratic environment. (2) The component "Kazakh Media for Fair and Stable Elections" completed several trainings for media professionals on elections coverage and online journalism prior to the January 2012 elections. Electoral talk shows which were broadcasted on regional TV channels and put on the internet aimed to stir debate to issues and positions and avoid an exclusive focus on personalities. One of the talk shows addressed the situation in Zhanaozen. Furthermore, through the project, sub-grants are being provided to regional TV companies which shoot televised debates between political parties. This action aims to address long-observed, recurrent problems in Kazakh electoral debates, such as the lack of open exchanges of opinions and the tendency toward media's self-censorship. This action is timely, particularly in view of the recently approved new Law on Media which raises significant concerns. (3) The assistance of the Venice Commission only started in earnest in 2012 and will focus on building the capacity of the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) also to advance the legislative effort necessary to achieve electoral reform. The project has started work on post-election monitoring, analyzing the infringements to electoral legislations in order to provide recommendations to the CEC on steps to be taken to tackle these problems and to come in line with international standards. The project is also working on in-depth analysis of the existing legislation and providing legal opinions on the draft legislation in the field of elections. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response IfS intervention is in line with the EU strategy in Kazakhstan and reinforces the EU ́s support to democracy, human rights and the rule of law in the country. The IFS action is particularly relevant in the context of the social tensions that escalated to the Zhanaozen tragic events in December 2011 and in light of the numerous and persistent shortcomings identified during electoral exercises.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Kenya

Title of IfS Decision || EU assistance in support of the trial and related treatment of piracy suspects ||

Type of measure || Support to judicial system

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 13 May 2009

Amount(s) || EUR  1,750,000 Contracted: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  1,750,000 Paid: as of 31/12/2011: EUR  1,400,000

Start Date of Project || 1 May 2009 (retroactive)

End Date || 30 April 2011 (no-cost 6-month extension)

Context of Instability Combating piracy along some of the world’s major shipping lanes off the Horn of Africa is a high priority for the countries of the region as well as the wider international community. Apart from its impact on overall security, the disruption of trade caused by the piracy crisis is damaging the already fragile economies of countries of the region. The EU is actively engaged in the fight against piracy through the conduct of the CSDP naval operation EU-NAVFOR Atalanta, contributing to the protection of vulnerable sea vessels and the deterrence, prevention and repression of acts of piracy and armed robbery off the Somali coast. In March 2009, the EU concluded an agreement with Kenya to allow piracy suspects detained by the Atalanta naval operation to be transferred to Kenya for trial. The agreement was unilaterally terminated by Kenya in September 2010, but the country has continued accepting suspect pirates for prosecution on a case by case basis. Short Description The Kenyan authorities asked the EU for assistance to support the country’s efforts to ensure the trials and related treatment of transferred piracy suspects. Aware of the resource and capacity  constraints faced by the Kenyan authorities, and conscious of the critical contribution which their engagement makes to the overall international efforts to combat piracy, the EU agreed to provide assistance. The IfS crisis response package supported the prosecution, police, judicial and prison services, particularly focusing on capacity- and logistical shortfalls linked to the trials and the detention of piracy suspects. Activities and State of Play The EU engaged the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as its implementing partner and their regional office in Nairobi demonstrated a capacity to quickly mobilise assistance on the ground in Kenya. The project had been effectively implementing the following activities: · comprehensive reviews of the relevant legal frameworks of Kenya, setting out recommendations for legal development in the short, medium and long term; · support to the Kenyan police service through assistance with logistics, travel, training (particularly for evidence handling) and the provision of secure exhibit rooms; support for the prosecution service through training,; · improvements to the functioning of the courts and the trials including development of courtroom facilities, facilitation of court attendance by foreign witnesses, provision of interpreters, defense services, etc., which resulted in significant reductions in court and prison overload in Mombasa; · substantial improvements in conditions for all prisoners at Shimo La Tewa prison in Mombasa, for example a reduction in overcrowding and a doubling of the capacity of sanitation and water supply services. Working closely with the responsible Kenyan authorities, the project contributed to ensuring trials are conducted in a fair and humane manner and in a sound rule of law framework. The project improved the efficiency of trials within the confines of constraints faced by the Kenyan authorities. In order to ensure continued assistance to Kenya for new cases and ongoing cases in the Kenyan court system, the project was extended at no cost till end April 2011. Other bilateral EU and non-EU donors now continue supporting the project. Similar actions supporting the judicial system for the prosecution of suspect pirates is implemented in the Seychelles and Mauritius and it is possible new actions will involve other countries in the region willing to join the international efforts to fight piracy. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response This IfS action has been an important complement to the EU’s CSDP anti-piracy naval operation Atalanta as well as wider efforts of the EU and the international community to tackle piracy. Support to Kenya will continue with the implementation of the Eastern and Southern African and Indian Ocean region's strategy on maritime security endorsed in 2010. This strategy involves five regional organisations plus the affected countries and is aimed at establishing a comprehensive approach to fight piracy and improve maritime security. Kenya will also benefit from the establishment of a new EU CSDP mission on Regional Maritime Capacity Building.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Kosovo*

Title of IfS Decision || Conflict Prevention in Kosovo ||

Type of measure || Reconciliation, Regional Peace building Capacity

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision || 2009

Amount(s) || Contracted: EUR  744,000 Paid: EUR  548,622.31 ||

Start Date of Project || 31/03/2009 ||

End Date || 31/03/2012 ||

Context of Instability Following Kosovo’s declaration of independence on 17 February 2008, attention turned to consolidation, amid continued risks of instability in Northern Kosovo and Serbia’s refusal to recognise Kosovo's independence. Northern Kosovo, that directly borders Serbia, is the only multi municipality region of Kosovo in which ethnic Serbs constitute the majority of population and which,  since 1999, has enabled local Serbs to exercise a significant level of autonomy. Kosovo institutions have very limited access to, and impact in, the North and are represented only via local community offices (LCOs) that are located in Albanian enclaves, not in Municipality premises. Civil society in the North remains fragmented, under-developed and under-funded, notably for the fear of being exposed and marginalised if cooperating with partners south of Ibar or international institutions. Also, it is a small circle comprised of a few large NGOs that benefit from most donor funds. Short Description (1) Conflict Prevention in Kosovo The 36 month project started on 31 March 2009 with a total budget of EUR  744,000, having been awarded to CARE Deutschland-Luxemburg e.V. The project’s overall objective is to promote sustainable peace by encouraging greater civil society leadership and political participation among Kosovo’s youth. In particular it aims to foster the creation of the Kosovo Conflict Prevention Group, an indigenous local youth leadership network body intended to both model and promote action and advocacy by youth for civil society networks and conflict prevention mechanisms. Although the project's impact was limited in 2011 due to negative security developments (particularly in areas with mixed communities), youth-led activities in the areas of conflict prevention showed positive impact at community level, encouraging social action, advocacy and participation in policymaking. Activities and State of Play (1) Conflict Prevention in Kosovo The Kosovo Conflict Prevention Group (KCPG) managed to establish solid cooperation with various civil society organisations (CSOs) and Local Government Officials (except in Mitrovica). The KCPG formally convened three times and shared information about potential conflicts, root-causes of the conflict especially at grass-roots level, analysed options for the local and central government and provided recommendations for conflict prevention. CARE, ProPeace and KCPG conducted seven training sessions, with approximately 25 participants in each, to improve the capacity of local actors to respond efficiently to demands and challenges arising during implementation of actions. Given the security developments in North Mitrovicë/a, measures have also been implemented to asses the situation in the area and to discuss the non-formal communication channels between CSOs there. The measures include non-formal communication and the organisation, by CARE, of a meeting with eight local organisations to discuss the current situation and how to proceed further. The common agreement has been made that CARE should support local organizations in Mitrovica in developing a conflict prevention strategy paper for Mitrovicë/a. The previously established Early Warning System Database has been successfully used to track positive and negative developments in eight targeted sites across Kosovo. However, due to the security developments in the north of Kosovo, most of the activists from mixed ethnic areas were not able to move freely and to feed the database with information. Mechanisms allowing analysis of inter-ethnic relations, projection of trends and planning of adequate conflict prevention measures were also established, such as local Task Force Groups in three targeted regions: Peja/Peć, Gjilan/Gnjilane and Mitrovicë/a. CARE, in close cooperation with KCPG, finalised the Mandate of the Regional Task Force Group on Conflict Prevention (RTFG). The RTGP consists of representatives of local authorities, Kosovo Police and representatives of CSOs. The mandate of the RTFG is to facilitate the exchange, production and provision of information to its members, to make informed choices on operational and strategic coordination and to create a space for its members to carry out community and/or advocacy initiatives. One overall call for proposals for various youth initiatives was launched in close consultation with CSOs (KCPG members and ProPeace), local government officials (especially departments working with youth and communities) and CARE.  25 proposals have been assessed and 8 proposals were selected for funding. For Mitrovicë/a area, a separate/specific call for proposal was launched later in the year to target specific challenges in the area. Furthermore, a fundraising strategy for the sustainability of the project and the development of a phase out strategy for the KCPG was developed. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response The project was complementary to the Commission’s Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) programme for transition assistance and capacity building in Kosovo and the CSDP Rule of Law mission EULEX in Kosovo. Liaison with the EU Office Political Section has been instrumental in reviewing the documents produced by the project and assessing the potential impact at community level.

Implementation of Instrument for Stability
(IfS) Programmes in

Kyrgyz Republic

Title of IfS Decision || (1) Support to the return of stability and democracy to the Kyrgyz Republic (2) Promotion of democracy and stabilisation in the Kyrgyz Republic (3) Community security Initiative (4) Regional conflict prevention programme in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia: Support to early warning, conflict prevention and stabilisation ||

Type of measure || Regional Peace building, Post-Conflict Recovery, Security-Sector Reform, Rule of Law, Election Support, Reconciliation and Mediation

Date of Adoption of IfS Decision ||  (1) 27 July 2010 (2) 10 December 2010 (3) 24 March 2011 (4) 23 September 2011

Amount(s) || (1) EUR  1,900,000 Contracted: EUR  1,900,000  Paid: EUR  1,733,000 (2) EUR  5 350 000 Contracted: EUR  5,346,525.09 Paid: EUR  4,075,081.67 (3) EUR  750,000 Contracted:  EUR  750,000 Paid: EUR  632,580.30 (4) EUR  6,450,000.00 Contracted:  EUR  6,038,000 Paid: EUR  2,677,375.82

Start Date of Project || (1) July 2010 (2) August 2010 (3) 1 March 2011 (4) 1 November 2011

End Date || (1) January 2012 (2) during 2012/2013 (3) 31 May 2012 (4) end 2013

Context of Instability Following the 7 April 2010 popular uprising, the ousting of President Bakiev and the ensuing Kyrgyz–Uzbek inter-ethnic conflict in the South, certain signs of political stabilisation emerged in the Kyrgyz Republic. A new constitution, which put an end to the omnipotent presidential powers and strengthened the role of the Parliament, was passed by referendum on 27 June 2010. Free and competitive elections followed on 10 October 2010 and a coalition government was formed in December 2010. After the events of April and June 2010, which had resulted in several hundred civilian casualties, a fragile 2011 followed, with efforts to consolidate political and social stability. The country witnessed the first ever peaceful and orderly handover of presidential power in Central Asia in November 2011. Almost two years after the Revolution, the 2010 semi parliamentary Constitution, viewed as inappropriate for the Central Asian culture by many neighbours and in-country politicians, remains in place without amendments. Soon this will mark a record in the political history of the Kyrgyz Republic, but adverse regional dynamics, corruption and human rights violations continue to inhibit good governance.  Rule of law and judiciary reform and the fight against corruption feature high on the list of priorities announced by the new Government. With local elections on-going and continuing economic difficulties, the new Government still faces numerous challenges, especially in the South of the country where genuine reconciliation between ethnic communities is yet to be advanced. Ensuring the right balance between security and stability on the one hand and truth and reconciliation on the other, will be a key challenge for the new Government. Short Description Following the crisis in the Kyrgyz Republic the Instrument for Stability (IfS) assisted with political and legal reforms so as to create more stable institutions that function in accordance with the new Constitution. On-going IfS interventions also focus on mitigating the effects of the inter-ethnic conflict in the south by, for example, supporting the reconstruction of destroyed homes, the restitution of property documents or by promoting conflict-sensitive media reporting. Assistance to UN OHCHR also aims to foster the protection of human rights. A new action was designed in 2011 to improve the situation of minorities in Central Asia, especially in Kyrgyzstan, assisting the Government of Kyrgyzstan in following up on recommendations from reports after the June 2010 inter-ethnic clashes (including, but not limited to recommendations from the international Kyrgyzstan Inquiry Commission, KIC). It also aimed to increase confidence-building opportunities through social and economic integration measures and assist the governments in the region to tackle the border demarcation process with a view to alleviating inter-ethnic, internal, cross-border and regional tensions, especially in the South of the Kyrgyz Republic. Activities and State of Play (1) The Kyrgyz Republic Election Support Project supported the country’s general capacity to organize and hold elections as well as specific electoral exercises. Amongst others, activities included support to reform of electoral legislation, procurement of election materials, establishment of a press centre at the Central Election Commission (CEC), start of the voter registration reform as well as work with national NGOs to monitor elections. The electoral process has improved substantially as a result and thus a contribution to the first peaceful transfer of presidential powers in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia was made.  i. At the request of the authorities of the Kyrgyz Republic the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe provided institutional and legal support for the development of key laws and regulations to ensure the stability of the country. ii. The Institute for Public Policy, a leading think tank in Bishkek, provided an alternative platform for topical debates to address a wider public. Some of these discussions took place under Chatham House rules to ensure that sensitive topics could be raised even in an often tense environment. iii. The report of the Independent International Commission of Inquiry (Kyrgyzstan Inquiry Commission) represented an important milestone in the reconciliation process after the inter-ethnic violence which took place from 10–14 June 2010 in the South of the Kyrgyz Republic. Supported by the Finnish NGO Crisis Management Initiative, the Commission was established on the request of the Kyrgyz government who also responded to the comprehensive report and recommendations published in May 2011. (2) The objective of the programme Promotion of Democracy and Stabilisation in the Kyrgyz Republic is to preserve democratic stability and prevent new conflicts. It has five components: - Institutional support to the implementation of the new legal framework provides assistance to the main actors implementing the reform programme in line with the new Constitution - the Ministry of Justice, the Parliament, the Chamber of Accounts and civil society partners are engaging with each other to create more efficient and accountable public institutions. - Civil monitoring for human rights protection and conflict prevention takes place at national and local level, encourages inter-ethnic reconciliation and oversees national policies and budget transparency in order to help fight the culture of impunity and promote social integration in particular in the South of the Kyrgyz Republic. - The component on Supporting media reform and strengthening conflict sensitive reporting enables the transfer from state to public service broadcasting and improves journalistic professionalism within the private sector when reporting on conflict-sensitive issues. - the component on Developing political leadership for democratic transition, undertaken by the Club de Madrid, supported the transition toward a peaceful parliamentary democracy through five missions, under the leadership of Vaira Vike-Freiberga, the former President of Latvia. President Rosa Otunbayeva and other senior stakeholders strongly appreciated this support. - Once the construction of emergency shelters was completed following the events of 2010,  the action social stabilisation through reconstruction of destroyed houses created conditions for the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees by mobilising toward reconciliation, providing information and assisting in obtaining necessary legal documents. (3)  Following the June 2010 events, the Community Security Initiative of the OSCE supported the efforts of the Kyrgyz police to professionally ensure security for all, irrespective of ethnicity. (4)  Conflict Mitigation and Peace Building in Kyrgyzstan aims to strengthen community capacity for conflict prevention, mitigation and resolution, reduce underlying sources of tension and promote shared peaceful interests related to economic and social development. The Joint Research Centre provides Support to Border Demarcation in the Fergana Valley, assisting the countries bordering the Fergana Valley by providing satellite or airborne data mapping as a means to support the inter-country dialogue on border demarcation. Role of the IfS Action within the Broader EU and International Response Intervention under the Instrument for Stability in the Kyrgyz Republic has made a clear contribution to the stabilisation process in a volatile crisis environment. Regular EU assistance was insufficient for tackling those challenges and in 2011, it was appropriate to deploy the IfS to assist in the stabilisation of Kyrgyzstan. The actions are fully in line with the EU Strategy for Central Asia, creating synergies with on-going programmes such as EIDHR and allowing for follow-up by other EU instruments, such as the specific Central Asia Rule of Law Initiative under the EU Strategy for Central Asia, and long-term assistance under the Development Cooperation Instrument.

[1] BRAC
started as the ‘Bangladesh
Rural Advancement Committee’. Now BRAC is the worlds largest NGO in terms of
staff with projects in 9 countries in Asia and Africa.

[2] UNIR
Informe de Conflictividad 2011

-               This designation is without prejudice to positions on
status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo
declaration of independence