Céline Steer 

Thanks for your comment! ICRD's reconciliation methodology, and past work with GemPaz, is designed to be particularly sensitive to these concerns. An important facet of our methodology is to work independently with adversarial groups before bringing them together. Our reconciliation team and local implementers take great care to recognize if it is too early to bring these groups in contact. Not all victims or former combatants will be ready for reconciliation engagements with one another, which is OK. But, there are many who have succeeded in working together to demonstrate a new type of relationship.

Regarding the construction process, it really takes place over the course of four years. The first two years are dedicated to research, site selection, design, and collaboration with the government and private sector (including construction professionals). Sitework specialists will be selected as a part of this initial process and are chosen in close consultation with the government, community leaders, and peacebuilding professionals. Following the initial feasibility study, an additional minimum two-year period is set for construction. A wholly dedicated two-year research and design phase, that precedes any actual breaking of ground, is necessary for the exact reasons you've identified.

All the best!

James Patton

Marnie Glazier 

Thanks so much for your positive feedback. Highlighting local voices is a pillar of our work. Best to you as well!

Dear Claire May 

Not at all, you've been a great help! Thanks so much for all of the ideas (including the above ideas on training) and input. Don't hesitate to let us know if anything else occurs to you.

Warmest regards,

James