The contribution of specific UN-monitoring to the issue of the proliferation of small arms is an important challenge for the international donor community. In the context of the Belgian Development co-operation I have introduced new mechanisms for strengthening the capacity for conflict prevention, conflict mediation and peace building. The Belgian International Development Board stresses the fact that new efforts to reduce poverty and inequalities in development are closely linked to the quest for peace and stability. The development of a stable society must be reinforced with reference to each country's specific situation. Regions in conflict, their local and regional stability undermined by population displacement, will be granted emergency aid.
Priority is given to initiatives that promote reconciliation and confidence-building.
In countries where the peace process has recently been set in train, the Belgian co-operation effort will do everything possible to avert the outbreak of further hostilities. Disarmament in return for measures to promote employment, education and promotion of vocational training, including psycho-social support to victims. We cannot pretend any longer that peace policy and conflict prevention is not an issue for development co-operation. Our humanitarian aid eases suffering. The Belgian Special Fund for Conflict Prevention and peace Building offers a flexible instrument for quick responses and funding for actions that may help tilt the balance in unstable situations.