Ceasefires and security arrangements

Ceasefires and related security arrangements are key tools for managing violence in armed conflicts and have become increasingly prominent in mediation processes. To be effective, these processes require technical expertise, ensuring that ceasefire agreements address battlefield realities and broader political dynamics, and can be implemented sustainably.

HD has established a ceasefire support team within its Mediation Support and Policy Directorate. The team provides technical assistance to mediators and conflict parties by advising them in ongoing processes, building capacity in key areas, and supporting the drafting of security-related agreements. 

HD has supported ceasefire efforts in Yemen, Sudan, Ukraine, Senegal, and Myanmar.

The team also delivers training and develops guidance, including a comprehensive video series on ceasefires and security transition processes, developed with colleagues from ETH Zurich. Ongoing work focuses on ceasefires in geopolitically sensitive contexts and on integrating gender considerations into ceasefire negotiations and agreements.