Statement on the Strengthening of Capabilities for Integrated Peace Management – Key Points on Civilian Planning Goals

The statement of the advisory council of the German federal government for civilian crisis prevention and promotion of peace focusses on the introduction of civilian planning goals for the development of capabilities in the realm of civilian crisis management.

In light of the recent developments of crises in the European neighbourhood, the advisory council regards the definition of civilian planning goals as an important step to improve capabilities. The council considers the capacities for civilian crisis management as lacking and points to the commitments in the 2023 civilian CSDP compact as well as the civilian capability development process as guidelines for setting goals. However, civilian planning goals would need to be embedded in a strategic framework together with a defined level of ambition.

Both a timeline and prioritised capabilities need to be clearly defined to increase efficiency. The process should build on existing capabilities while pointing out necessary additions, keeping in mind that not all capabilities can or should be provided by the state. According to the council, the civil society should be a partner in this process. 

The statement further analyses:

• The existing political positioning of civilian planning goals in the EU and Germany;
• The development of demands in the face of the growing number of crises in the European neighbourhood;
• The need for consistent political action;
• The fields of action for civilian contributions to crisis prevention and promotion of peace. 

In the end, the advisory council recommends focussing on a number of important capabilities: 

• Security sector reform and human security
• Rule of law and political conflict resolution
• Promotion of civil society and of local peace infrastructure
• Processing the past and reconciliation
• Basic social services 

Reference: Der Beirat der Bundesregierung – Zivile Krisenprävention und Friedensförderung (2024). Stellungnahme: Stärkung der Fähigkeiten für integriertes Friedensmanagement – Eckpunkte zu zivilen Planzielen.