Phase 1
The transition trigger
Phase description
There is popular dissatisfaction with the government in power, for instance, expressed through popular protests. These involve a large number of people and organizations demonstrating and advocating for political change. Following increasing international pressure and continued domestic protests, the government agrees to hold a National Dialogue. However, it is likely that large parts of the political and military elite remain opposed to political change and undertake efforts to undermine the dialogue efforts.
Explore the following 1 use case(s) of digital technology:
Use Case 1
Online collaboration in support of the peace process
This website enables collaboration on initiatives relating to the peace talks. Participants from different stakeholder groups can work together to identify common concerns, build coalitions around key issues, and plan joint actions that support the mediation. In addition, members of the public could use the site to identify activities happening in their locality and join them. Results of the collaboration could feed into the negotiation, for instance, by enabling a collaborative approach to agenda-setting. The tool could also help building pressure on the negotiation parties by demonstrating public support for peace and advocating for specific process outcomes. Once an agreement has been reached, the website could also be used to organize initiatives that are included in the formal provisions of the peace agreement. A password-protected version of the website could be available for a closed group of civil society actors for more direct coordination. This tool can be used accross all phases of the process.
Important context factors
This tool requires a relatively open environment and general support for peace from the population, as well as an active civil society and community leaders. The site will require a wide user base from the start to ensure it generates sufficient momentum through a critical mass of activities. This project will be constrained in the context of a divided society, with limited civil society groups and restricted freedom of expression. The use case requires access to the internet for large parts of the population and some culture of civic engagement.
Risks and possible unintended consequences
- There may be limited political momentum if the site is not populated with an initial set of engaging projects
- The site may be misused for initiatives that reinforce division and polarization, or promote partisan interests
Strategic purpose of digital inclusion
Functions of digital Technology
Outputs of digital Technology
Technologies used
Website
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Phase 1