Continental early warning system (CEWS) consultative meeting with CSOS - research centers in the EAC and IGAD region

The Continental Early Warning System (CEWS) was put in place by Article 12 of the Protocol relating to the establishment of the Peace and Security Council (PSC). Its operationalization is guided by the provisions of the “Framework for the Operationalization of CEWS”. The two instruments stress the importance of collaboration with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on matters of early warning and conflict prevention as a pre-requisite for the successful operation and full operarionalization of CEWS. The PSC Protocol specifically States “The Commission shall collaborate with International Organisations, Research Centres, Academic institutions and NGOs, to facilitate the functioning of the CEWS”. Against this background, CSOs have provided an important contribution in the operationalization of CEWS through participation in the various meetings and workshops convened by the AU Commission since 2003.

To date, three consultative meetings were held with CSOs, that basically focused on creating awareness and understanding amongst CSOs on the mandate, structures, operations and status of operationalization of CEWS; develop effective working methods between the CEWS and CSOs to enable the emergence of an effective, practical and sustainable relationship; and elaborate the modalities for engagement and effective participation of CSOs in conflict prevention and early warning with the CEWS and RECs.

As a follow-up to the consultative meetings, CEWS indetified 5 CSOs and Research Centres from the 5 AU regions to coordinate data collection activities and thematic research initiatives. It was also agreed that the Africa Reporter tool, which is an important online platform, could be used as one of the tools to facilitate the exchange of information between the AU and CSOs. In this regard, the CSOs, agreed to exchange information with CEWS, on countries/regions, where they have a presence or through existing networks. 

Read the full concept note here

read the full program here