What are the most promising strategies for reducing crime, violence, and conflict? The past decade has seen a dramatic expansion in the experimental literature designed to help answer this question. Moving beyond evaluations of individual programs, these studies seek to advance our understanding of what drives individuals and groups towards violence and conflict and the levers at our disposal for their reduction.

This webinar, delivered to Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and led by the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) and Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), highlighted the most important discoveries from randomized evaluations in recent years and illuminated how this field of research is providing key insights for more effective programming. Drawing on a recent review of emerging evidence, it covered a range of interrelated topics—from peacebuilding and dispute resolution to alternatives to policing in high-crime settings—highlighting new insights for programming, while also identifying where evidence gaps remain. 

Introductory remarks were given by Andrew Kaiser-Tedesco, Specialist at the Sector Program Transitional Development Aid and Crises Management. Cillian Nolan, Director for Policy and Acting Executive Director at J-PAL Europe; Isabela Salgado, Senior Policy Associate at J-PAL Global; and Ricardo Morel, Program Director for IPA's Peace & Recovery Program also presented. The event was moderated by Nita Schaub, NICD Community Manager.