ABOUT

About Us

ARAC, which stands for Advocacy, Research, Analysis, and Consultancy, is dedicated to supporting global change-makers – be they humanitarians, non-profits, policymakers, or civil society organizations – as they strive to make a difference. We champion causes like the U.S. Global Fragility Act, human rights, International Humanitarian Law, and peacebuilding, placing special emphasis on fostering the Positive Peace framework and promoting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a particular focus on SDG16 and SDG17, we fully endorse all SDGs and initiatives that bolster capacity-building. Our research and analytical expertise in global security and public safety offer invaluable insights to humanitarians, ensuring they can provide services in even the most challenging contexts safely. Furthermore, we extend consultancy services and educational resources, helping organizations weave the Institute for Economics and Peace's Positive Peace Framework into their strategies, thereby advancing sustainable peace in their spheres of influence. Dive deeper into ARAC's mission, vision, and goals outlined below.

Mission

At ARAC International, we are steadfastly committed to fostering a world where human rights are upheld, and global peace thrives. In alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the US Global Fragility Act, our mission is to collaborate with partners worldwide, bridging divides and addressing the root causes of conflict. Through proactive engagement, innovative solutions, and unwavering dedication, we aim to pave the way for a sustainable, just, and harmonious future for all.

Vision

We envision a safer society for humanitarians to serve communities in need; free of violence, conflict, and disruptions to the global supply chain.

Goals

• To build a transnational advocacy network to promote Positive Peace and the institutions and structures that support sustainable development through education, public awareness, and advocacy.
  
• Provide international security research, analysis, and alerts by way of communication channels with our research partners and public institutions.
  
• Maintain strategic partnerships with the federal government, NGO’s, civil society, and non-profit entities to build information-sharing networks to enhance public safety and awareness.
  
• To provide the humanitarian community with education, awareness, and resources on supply chain risk and insider threats that can impede their mission to deliver services to citizens in need.
  
• Provide human rights and anti-trafficking consultancy services to global communities, and organizations.
  
• To promote digital diplomacy and engage the global diplomatic community to support initiatives that address sustainable development goals.
  

ARAC International Operational Framework 

and Support Initiatives

1. Vision:

To be a leading consultant and research entity, advancing sustainable peace, stability, and safety by integrating conflict analysis, Positive Peace, risk assessment, human rights, and NGO security strategies.

2. Core Pillars:

A. Conflict Analysis and Resolution:

• Research: Conduct thorough studies on ongoing and potential conflicts, identifying root causes and escalation triggers.
  
• Mediation: Facilitate dialogue between conflicting parties, leveraging lessons from Mediators Beyond Borders International projects.
  
• Policy Recommendations: Develop actionable strategies for governments, NGOs, and international bodies to address and prevent conflicts.
  

B. Positive Peace Promotion:

• Assessment: Utilize the IEP Positive Peace Framework to evaluate the state of peace in regions or countries, identifying areas of strength and vulnerability.
  
• Training: Organize workshops and training sessions for local communities, NGOs, and policymakers to foster attitudes, structures, and institutions that support Positive Peace.
  

C. Comprehensive Risk Assessment:

• Environment and Fragility: Use the Fragile State Index and insights from the Paris Agreement to assess risks associated with environmental changes and state fragility.
  
• Security for NGOs: Assess potential threats faced by NGOs, from physical dangers in conflict zones to cyber threats, developing tailored security protocols.
  

D. Human Rights Advocacy and Integration:

• Education: Offer seminars and workshops on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, emphasizing its importance in peace and development.
  
• Integration: Assist NGOs and governments in integrating human rights principles into their operations, policies, and programs.
  

E. NGO Security and Stability:

• Security Protocols: Develop and regularly update security measures for NGOs based on evolving threats.
  
• Collaboration: Facilitate information sharing and coordination between NGOs, governments, and international bodies to enhance collective security.
  

3. Collaborative Approaches:

• Partnerships: Build strong alliances with organizations like Mediators Beyond Borders International, governments, and other NGOs to enhance the reach and impact of initiatives.
  
• Community Engagement: Prioritize the involvement of local communities in all initiatives, ensuring that solutions are contextually relevant and sustainable.
  

4. Continuous Monitoring and Feedback:

• Adaptive Strategies: Regularly review and adapt strategies based on feedback, evolving global scenarios, and the latest research.
  
• Stakeholder Feedback: Engage with clients, communities, and partners for continuous feedback to refine services and ensure alignment with the needs of those served.
  

This framework ensures ARAC International Inc remains comprehensive in its approach, addressing the myriad challenges to sustainable peace and security in an integrated manner. As the global landscape evolves, the flexible and adaptive nature of this framework will be crucial in ensuring its relevance and effectiveness.

Sustainable Peace and Global Security: A Comprehensive Understanding

The pursuit of sustainable peace and global security has been a paramount concern for international actors for several decades. Peace and security, once primarily focused on military and diplomatic dynamics, have evolved to encompass a myriad of intertwined issues from environmental challenges to socio-economic disparities and human rights violations. As the global community works to tackle these multifaceted challenges, it has become evident that achieving sustainable peace requires a holistic approach. In this report, we will delve into the significance of key initiatives, strategies, and frameworks that collectively serve as pillars for building a secure and harmonious global society. Each section illuminates an essential component of the broader mosaic of peace and security, underscoring the intricate ways in which these topics interrelate.

1. The Global Fragility Act

The Global Fragility Act (GFA) is a landmark piece of U.S. legislation designed to improve the way the U.S. government approaches fragile states. Recognizing the implications of unstable nations on global security, the GFA mandates a coordinated strategy to prevent violence and conflict in priority regions. It emphasizes a collaborative approach with civil society and international partners to achieve long-term stability.

2. The U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability

Aligned with the GFA, this strategy sets forth a blueprint for how the U.S. engages with fragile states. It calls for proactive measures to address root causes of conflict, reduce extremist influences, and foster inclusive, resilient communities. The goal is not just to react to conflicts but to preemptively curb their emergence.

3. The Paris Agreement & 4. COP 21

The Paris Agreement, a pivotal outcome of the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, is a commitment by 196 nations to combat climate change. Recognizing the security implications of environmental degradation, the agreement sets out to limit global warming below 2°C, ideally 1.5°C. It underscores that environmental sustainability and peace are inextricably linked, as climate-induced challenges can exacerbate conflicts.

4. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The SDGs, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, are a universal call to action to eradicate poverty, safeguard the planet, and ensure prosperity by 2030. Comprising 17 interlinked goals, the SDGs recognize that addressing systemic socio-economic issues can mitigate potential conflicts and foster a more peaceful global community.

5. IEP Positive Peace Framework

The Institute for Economics & Peace’s framework provides a holistic view of the components that constitute a peaceful society. It defines 'positive peace' as the attitudes, structures, and institutions that prevent societies from falling into conflict. These eight pillars emphasize the importance of equitable resources, functional governance, and cohesive societies in sustaining peace.

6. International Declaration of Human Rights

Adopted in 1948, this declaration outlines fundamental human rights that should be protected for all individuals. By ensuring rights such as freedom of speech, belief, and protection from torture, it aims to create a world in which dignity, justice, and equality prevail, indirectly contributing to global stability.

7. Fragile State Index (FSI)

The FSI ranks countries based on their vulnerability to conflict or collapse. By evaluating various social, economic, and political indicators, it offers insights into the factors that contribute to state fragility, thereby informing targeted intervention strategies.

8. Mediators Beyond Borders International Climate Change Project (CCP)

Recognizing the intersection of climate change and conflict, the CCP aims to build local capacities to address climate-induced tensions and disputes. It promotes dialogue and conflict resolution as tools to navigate the complexities of climate-related challenges.

9. Mediators Beyond Borders International Democracy Politics and Conflict Engagement (DPACE)

DPACE endeavors to promote democratic practices and enhance political engagement as a means of conflict prevention. It works to foster environments where political disagreements can be addressed through dialogue and negotiation, rather than violence.

10. NGO Security Risk Management

NGOs operate in some of the world's most volatile areas, making their safety paramount. Effective security risk management ensures that NGOs can carry out their peace-building, relief, and development missions without undue risk, thus supporting global stability efforts.

Interconnectedness and Importance

These initiatives, strategies, and frameworks are not standalone solutions but rather pieces of a comprehensive approach to global peace and security. Climate change can induce resource scarcity, leading to conflicts, which can be exacerbated by socio-economic disparities, as illuminated by the SDGs and FSI. The importance of human rights and democratic engagement, highlighted by the International Declaration and DPACE, ensures that societies have the tools to navigate these challenges peacefully. Collectively, these topics underscore the intricate web of factors influencing global stability and emphasize the need for a cohesive, holistic strategy to achieve lasting peace.

The pursuit of sustainable peace and global security requires an in-depth understanding and proactive engagement with each of these topics. They collectively form the backbone of our global approach to peace, security, and sustainable development. By appreciating their interconnectedness, we can work collaboratively to build a world that is both peaceful and resilient.

1. The Global Fragility Act

The Global Fragility Act (GFA), signed into law in December 2019, represents a significant shift in how the United States government perceives and addresses conflict in fragile states. Recognizing that challenges in these areas have multifaceted roots, GFA approaches solutions in a more holistic manner.

Key Components of the GFA:

• Targeted Approach: The GFA focuses on select priority countries and regions, aiming to develop a deeper understanding and more nuanced response to specific challenges.
  
• 10-year Strategy: By looking at a decade-long horizon, the GFA fosters long-term commitment rather than short-term, reactive measures. It calls for the creation of a "Global Fragility Strategy" every four years to detail U.S. efforts to stabilize conflict-affected areas.
  
• Collaborative Action: The GFA encourages U.S. government agencies to work cohesively. It demands collaboration between the State Department, USAID, and the Department of Defense, ensuring a more coordinated effort.
  
• Engaging Civil Society: The act emphasizes the importance of working alongside civil society, local communities, and international partners. This grassroots approach ensures that interventions are culturally appropriate and sustainable.
  
• Monitoring and Evaluation: One of the GFA's notable features is its commitment to data-driven decisions. It mandates regular monitoring, evaluation, and learning to understand the effectiveness of interventions, promoting accountability.
  

In essence, the Global Fragility Act underscores the understanding that fragility and instability in one part of the world can have ripple effects, affecting not just regional but global peace and security. By addressing root causes and building resilience within communities, the GFA endeavors to create a world less prone to conflict.

2. The U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability

An offshoot of the Global Fragility Act, the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability is designed to be the implementation blueprint that brings the GFA's objectives to life. It outlines how the U.S. government intends to tackle issues of conflict and instability in a strategic and coordinated fashion.

Key Aspects of the Strategy:

• Proactive Approach: Historically, many of the U.S. interventions in conflict zones were reactive. This strategy promotes a shift towards prevention, aiming to identify and address potential conflict triggers before they escalate.
  
• Local Partnerships: The strategy heavily emphasizes the role of local actors. It believes that sustainable peace can only be achieved if the local communities, who understand the nuances of their environment, are at the forefront.
  
• Integrated Efforts: Recognizing that fragility is often a result of various overlapping issues – from economic deprivation to social divisions – the strategy pushes for integrated solutions. This means that efforts to promote economic growth, social cohesion, and good governance are pursued simultaneously.
  
• Transparency and Accountability: The strategy pledges to be transparent in its actions, ensuring that all stakeholders are on the same page. It also promises rigorous evaluations to ascertain the success of its interventions, holding relevant departments accountable.
  
• Resource Allocation: A key aspect of this strategy is to ensure that resources are judiciously allocated. By focusing on high-risk, high-reward environments, the U.S. aims to get the maximum peace dividends from its investments.
  

The overarching idea behind the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability is to take a bird's eye view of conflicts. Instead of getting bogged down in the minutiae of immediate challenges, it focuses on creating environments where conflicts are less likely to arise in the first place. This perspective recognizes that sustainable peace is a long game, requiring patience, persistence, and a deep understanding of local dynamics.

3. The Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement, reached in 2015, stands as a seminal moment in international efforts to combat climate change. Understanding that climate change doesn't just pose environmental threats but also jeopardizes peace and security, the agreement brought together nations in an unprecedented pact.

Key Features of the Paris Agreement:

• Temperature Goals: At its core, the agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with a more ambitious target of limiting the increase to 1.5°C. These targets are set to reduce the severe impacts of climate change.
  
• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country sets its climate actions and targets, known as NDCs. These pledges are meant to be progressively ambitious, driving global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  
• Review Mechanism: The agreement includes a built-in mechanism to review each country's progress every five years. This "stocktake" ensures countries are on track to meet their commitments and encourages greater ambition over time.
  
• Financial Support: Developed countries are committed to mobilizing $100 billion annually by 2020 to assist developing nations in climate action. This financial mechanism ensures that countries with fewer resources can still participate actively.
  
• Adaptation: Beyond mitigating climate change, the agreement emphasizes the importance of adaptation. Recognizing that some effects of climate change are now inevitable, it pushes for global efforts to adjust to new realities.
  

4. COP 21

COP 21, or the 21st Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), was the event where the Paris Agreement was negotiated and adopted. Held in Paris in 2015, this conference marked a turning point in global climate negotiations.

Key Highlights of COP 21:

• Universal Participation: COP 21 was notable for its almost universal participation, with 196 nations coming together. It underscored the collective recognition of the climate challenge.
  
• Inclusive Negotiations: The negotiations at COP 21 were marked by inclusiveness, with small island nations and developing countries playing crucial roles in shaping the agreement.
  
• Interlinkages with Peace: Discussions at COP 21 weren't limited to environmental concerns. There was a significant emphasis on how climate change could exacerbate conflicts, cause resource wars, and lead to large-scale migrations. Hence, the agreement was also seen as a tool for preserving global peace.
  

Both the Paris Agreement and COP 21 underscore the interconnectedness of climate action with global peace and security. They reflect the understanding that environmental degradation can lead to socio-political challenges, emphasizing the need for coordinated global action.

5. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

In 2015, world leaders gathered at the United Nations to adopt the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Central to this agenda are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call to action for all countries. The SDGs represent a universal blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all, covering a broad range of interconnected issues from poverty and hunger to peace and justice.

Key Highlights of the SDGs:

• Comprehensive Framework: The SDGs encompass various aspects of human development, from basic needs like health and education to broader societal goals like reduced inequalities and sustainable cities.
  
• Interlinked Nature: The goals recognize that challenges are interconnected. For instance, quality education (Goal 4) can contribute to reduced inequalities (Goal 10) and support economic growth (Goal 8).
  
• Inclusivity: The SDGs emphasize that no one should be left behind. This means ensuring that marginalized groups, including the poor, disabled, and displaced, are considered in all development efforts.
  
• Goal 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions: This goal underscores the intrinsic link between development and peace. It stresses the need for inclusive societies, access to justice for all, and accountable institutions as foundations for a peaceful world.
  

6. IEP Positive Peace Framework

Developed by the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), the Positive Peace Framework identifies the attitudes, structures, and institutions that sustain peaceful societies. This framework moves beyond the mere absence of conflict (often termed 'negative peace') to explore the conditions that prevent conflict from arising in the first place.

Key Pillars of Positive Peace:

• Well-functioning Government: Efficient and transparent institutions that address public needs.
• Equitable Distribution of Resources: Fair access to resources and opportunities to prevent societal fractures.
• Free Flow of Information: An informed populace that can make decisions based on reliable data.
• Good Relations with Neighbors: Constructive external relations and avoidance of external conflicts.
• High Levels of Human Capital: Investment in citizens' health, education, and well-being.
• Acceptance of the Rights of Others: Recognition and respect for the rights and freedoms of all individuals.
• Low Levels of Corruption: An accountable system where public resources aren't misappropriated.
• Sound Business Environment: A stable environment conducive to economic growth and innovation.

These pillars highlight that peace isn't just the absence of war or conflict but the presence of positive and harmonious relationships, robust institutions, and equitable structures.

Together, the SDGs and the Positive Peace Framework emphasize a holistic approach to development and peace, highlighting that challenges are intertwined and solutions must be comprehensive and inclusive.

7. Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) represents a global affirmation of the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. It establishes fundamental human rights that should be protected universally, regardless of race, religion, nationality, or any other distinction.

Key Aspects of the UDHR:

• Foundation of International Law: The declaration, while non-binding, has inspired a range of international treaties, conventions, and domestic laws, cementing its role in shaping human rights jurisprudence.
  
• Broad Scope: The UDHR addresses civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, emphasizing the interconnected nature of all rights. From the right to life and liberty to the right to work and education, it spans a comprehensive spectrum.
  
• Universal Application: The declaration asserts the universality of human rights, arguing that these rights are applicable to all, without exception.
  

8. Fragile State Index (FSI)

Developed by the Fund for Peace, the Fragile State Index assesses the vulnerabilities of states based on a range of social, economic, and political indicators. It helps policymakers, researchers, and the public understand the pressures facing countries, and by extension, their susceptibility to conflict.

Main Features of the FSI:

• Comprehensive Metrics: The FSI evaluates states based on 12 primary social, economic, and political indicators, such as demographic pressures, refugee flows, human rights, and security apparatus.
  
• Ranking System: Countries are ranked annually based on their total vulnerability score, providing a comparative tool to understand relative fragility.
  
• Predictive Tool: By analyzing trends over time, the FSI can offer insights into potential future challenges or improvements in a country's stability.
  

9. Mediators Beyond Borders International Climate Change Project (CCP)

Mediators Beyond Borders International (MBBI) is an organization dedicated to resolving conflicts and promoting peace. The Climate Change Project is an initiative within MBBI focusing on the escalating disputes arising from the consequences of climate change.

CCP's Key Objectives:

• Conflict Resolution: Addressing disputes related to resource allocation, land use, and other climate-induced challenges.
  
• Capacity Building: Equipping communities with the skills to mediate and manage climate-related disputes.
  
• Promotion of Dialogue: Encouraging discussions on climate change's societal implications, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.
  

10. Mediators Beyond Borders International Democracy Politics and Conflict Engagement (DPACE)

Another significant initiative by MBBI, DPACE focuses on the role of politics in either escalating or resolving conflicts.

DPACE's Aims:

• Political Engagement: Understanding how politics can be a tool for peace rather than a source of conflict.
  
• Inclusive Dialogues: Promoting conversations between diverse political entities to find common ground and collaboratively address societal challenges.
  

Together, these initiatives, declarations, and tools underscore the importance of holistic approaches to peace and security. From ensuring basic human rights to addressing the multifaceted challenges of climate change and political engagements, each component is essential for a sustainable and peaceful global order.

11. NGO Security Risk Management

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a critical role in development, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding efforts globally. Given the often volatile and challenging environments in which they operate, there's a growing recognition of the importance of security risk management for these entities.

Key Components of NGO Security Risk Management:

• Risk Assessment: This involves identifying potential threats in the regions of operation, from physical harm to staff to cyber threats against the organization's data. Regular assessments allow NGOs to adapt and prepare for emerging challenges.
  
• Training and Preparedness: NGOs often provide their staff with training tailored to specific regional challenges, ensuring they're equipped to handle emergencies, from health crises to conflict situations.
  
• Coordination: Many NGOs collaborate with local governments, other NGOs, and international bodies to share information and resources, enhancing collective security.
  
• Contingency Planning: This involves creating response plans for various scenarios, ensuring that if a crisis does occur, there's a blueprint in place to mitigate its impact.
  
• Review and Evolution: Given the dynamic nature of risks, continuous review of security protocols and adaptation to new challenges are crucial.
  

Interconnectedness of the Topics:

Each of the topics discussed, from the Global Fragility Act to NGO Security Risk Management, plays a distinct yet interconnected role in promoting global peace and security.

• Proactive Approach: Both the GFA and the U.S. Strategy emphasize prevention over intervention, a philosophy also seen in risk management practices of NGOs.
  
• Holistic Understanding: The Paris Agreement, COP21, and the SDGs underscore that peace, development, and environmental sustainability are intrinsically linked. Environmental degradation can lead to resource conflicts, and lack of development can foment unrest.
  
• Empowerment and Rights: The UDHR and Positive Peace Framework emphasize individual rights and the structures required for peace, indicating that true peace is possible only when individuals feel secure, empowered, and respected.
  
• Collaboration: Initiatives like the CCP and DPACE promote dialogue and mediation, reinforcing that sustainable solutions often emerge from collaboration, understanding, and mutual respect.
  
• Monitoring and Adaptation: Tools like the Fragile State Index serve as mechanisms to monitor, evaluate, and adapt, a philosophy echoed in the regular reviews of the Paris Agreement and risk management practices of NGOs.
  

Sustainable peace and global security are complex, multifaceted goals that require a multi-pronged, integrated approach. Whether it's addressing climate change, ensuring human rights, or managing security risks for NGOs, each aspect plays a critical role in weaving the fabric of a peaceful global community.