From Nov 11-13, International IDEA mhosted a crucial meeting to strengthen collaboration amongst IGAD’s Conflict Early Warning and Response Mechanism and the early warning systems of the East African Community and the African Union.

The meeting’s aim was to refine the diagnostic and anticipatory capacities of these early warning systems; and strengthen their engagement with decision makers. The meeting, which also brought together academia and research experts, including representatives Institute for Security Studies and Interpeace, addressed the urgent need for robust, actionable early warning systems as crises across Africa become more complex and fast-moving.

Discussions also focused on revising legal frameworks, integrating gender sensitivity, and strengthening ties with academia and civil society to improve research and ensure timely, effective responses from decision-makers.