Flexible Engagement, Tailored to Each Context
CIVIC adapts its approach to the needs of each context, combining long-term engagement where sustained impact is possible with targeted support where a permanent presence is not.
Country Programs – In priority countries, CIVIC implements multi-year programs that combine community-based protection, direct engagement and advocacy with armed actors and authorities, and evidence-based research to strengthen the protection of civilians.
“Light Touch” Approach – Where long-term engagement is not feasible, CIVIC provides tailored research, technical assistance, and capacity strengthening to help partners address specific civilian protection challenges.
Across all of our work, CIVIC applies do no harm principles and develops clear entry and exit strategies to promote local ownership and long-term sustainability.
Three Mutually Reinforcing Pillars
Protecting civilians requires action at every level—from communities affected by conflict to armed actors, governments, and international institutions. CIVIC’s work is built around three mutually reinforcing pillars.
Engagement with Civilians
CIVIC partners with conflict-affected communities to strengthen their ability to protect themselves and advocate for their rights. Through our community-based protection (CBP) approach, civilians identify their own protection priorities and work with local partners to develop practical, context-specific solutions.
Drawing on global experience, CIVIC helps communities build the knowledge, confidence, and relationships needed to engage armed actors and decision-makers. By placing decision-making in the hands of local communities, our approach promotes local ownership and long-term resilience.
Engagement with Armed Actors and Policymakers
Lasting civilian protection requires changes in how armed actors plan and conduct operations. CIVIC works with governments and security forces to integrate civilian protection into security governance—including military doctrine, training, operational planning, policy, and legislation. We also advocate for civilian harm tracking, meaningful post-harm response, and institutional reforms that reduce civilian harm over time.
Building on insights from communities, CIVIC facilitates dialogue between civilians, armed actors, and policymakers to strengthen accountability and improve protection outcomes.
Engagement with Influential States and Multilateral Stakeholders
Civilian protection requires sustained international leadership and collective action. CIVIC works with multilateral institutions, regional organizations, and influential states to strengthen policies, improve accountability, and translate commitments into meaningful action for civilians affected by conflict. Our engagement includes:
Multilateral Institutions
CIVIC engages the United Nations, the African Union, NATO, regional economic communities, and other multilateral forums to strengthen civilian protection policies, operational guidance, and institutional practice.
Influential States
CIVIC engage with influential governments to promote responsible arms transfer policies, strengthen civilian protection in security partnerships and peace processes, and use diplomatic influence to advance the protection of civilians.
Peace Operations
CIVIC advocates for clear civilian protection mandates, adequate resourcing, and effective implementation across UN, regional, and hybrid peace operations, while supporting the integration of civilian protection into planning, training, and operations.
