Conflict Analysis Study / Consultancy

Search Lebanon:

Search for Common Ground (Search) is a non-governmental organization working to transform the way the world deals with conflict. We have acquired over 35 years of experience in peacebuilding and are based in over 30 countries around the world. Search first worked in Lebanon in 1996, addressing multiple issues arising within Lebanon's diverse society. In each project we seek to engage all stakeholders to work together to address shared challenges and develop joint solutions. We have led programmes around the world to help societies channel their differences away from adversarial approaches and towards collaborative solutions with activities that range from conflict mediation and peace education to stabilisation and women’s empowerment.

Project information:

The project aims to promote social cohesion amongst and between host communities and refugees in Lebanon and will be implemented over a period of 21 months. It has two specific objectives:

SO1. Cultivate collaborative and positive dialogues and narratives amongst and between host communities and refugees in target communities across Lebanon;

SO2. Shift public perceptions towards greater trust and respect amongst and between host communities and refugees in target communities across Lebanon;

Expected results:

Refugees and host community members have increased opportunities for and awareness of collaboration and positive interaction through dialogue and joint activities

Refugee and host community members have increased positive perceptions of the ‘other’ through access to positive social discourse and joint opportunities

Objectives of the Analysis:

Search is seeking a consultant to conduct a nationwide analysis of conflict and power dynamics to understand triggers that cause tension between host communities and refugees, as part of a project that aims to promote social cohesion. The geographical spectrum will focus on key hotspot communities in the governorates of Akkar, North, Mount Lebanon, west and central Bekaa, and Baalbek-Hermel.

A conflict analysis is “a systematic study of the political, economic, social, historical, and cultural factors that directly influence the shape, dynamics and direction of existing or potential conflicts. It includes an analysis of conflict causes and dynamics as well as assessments of the profiles, motivations, objectives and resources of conflict protagonists."

The study will focus on the collection of quantitative and qualitative data  to grasp trends in conflict and power dynamics at the community level, the stakeholders involved and their relationships, and the potential avenues for transforming the conflict.

The consultant will work closely with Search Lebanon team and Design, Monitoring & Evaluation Regional Specialist, MENA to ensure that all milestones are met. The consultant will also act as focal point on all issues including logistics and recruitment of local researchers, and will sign off on the final papers in consultation with the Design, Monitoring & Evaluation Regional Specialist MENA, and with the final approval of the Lebanon Country Director.

Overall, the Analysis aims to:

• Analyze conflict and power dynamics between host communities and refugees;
• Understand triggers that cause tension within Lebanese communities and specially between Syrian refugees and host communities;
• Identify key influencers, and possible champions in each community;
• Analyze the conflict in order to see where Search is most likely to make a change (identify entry points);
• Provide overall recommendations for the project implementation and specific guidance for the rapid response component of the project.