Inaugural Conference: Training and Human Capacity-Building in Post-Conflict Countries

Date and venue: 17-19 November 2003, Hiroshima, Japan

Introduction

The inaugural conference marked the opening of the Asia-Pacific Office of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) in Hiroshima was devoted to Training and Human Capacity-building in Post-Conflict Countries. It took place in Hiroshima from 17 to 19 November 2003 and brought together senior government officials, experts and scholars from the fields of post-conflict reconstruction, training and development assistance.

By dedicating its inaugural event to this theme, the UNITAR Hiroshima Office hopes to channel its initial activities and resources to working with interested partners in post-conflict countries and beyond, to contribute its share to improving the quality and impact of assistance programmes, most notably through the training of local trainers and educators. The underlying premise for the conference is that even more than during ‘ordinary’ times, the crucial months and years following conflict and turmoil in a country give further urgency to the need for relevant and effective training and education programmes – be it in practical and professional skills and know-how vital to the economic resurgence and survival of the country, or in some of the more basic principles underlying the transformation of a society of war to one of peace.

Objectives

The main objective of the conference is to focus on the human aspects of reconstruction and attempt to different review approaches to capacity-building in post-conflict situations. A further objective would be to learn from both past and present experiences and to launch new partnerships to promote a lively and effective network of post-conflict training programmes and individuals.

Modality and Topics

Research and preparations leading to the inaugural conference provided a unique opportunity to exchange information on the most relevant experiences and to study, in the context of post-conflict or economically challenged nations. Subject to be discussed included, inter alia, reflection on past and current examples of reconstruction and capacity-building in Asia, immediate versus long-term requirements for capacity-building and some of the more creative and effective methodologies and approaches used in different countries. The theme of post-conflict reconstruction is part of an annual seminar cycle, and become a platform of discussion for different training organizations and initiatives in countries of the Asia-Pacific region emerging from conflict and turmoil.