Instruments for addressing the natural resources, conflict and crises complex

Over recent years, German and international development efforts have increasingly faced new challenges. Developing and emerging economies are experiencing demographic developments and rapid economic growth, leading to increasing demand for natural resources. Climate change impacts and non-sustainable utilisation of these resources can at the same time lead to shortages, which might in turn constrain development opportunities. As a result, conflicts over natural resources are being exacerbated and peace building efforts are being jeopardised. In aiming to achieve international development goals, German development efforts need to meet future challenges concerning the supply of natural resources.

For this reason, adelphi performed an assessment of German development cooperation instruments on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. Firstly, the instruments were analysed to understand how they address the links between natural resources, environment, conflict and fragility, as well as how applicable they are to strategic and functional development cooperation planning. The evaluation included BMZ's early warning systems, strategy and planning processes at the national level, assessment instruments (such as peace and conflict assessments) and climate proofing tools. Secondly, the research project explored the experience of application and identified new possibilities in view of emerging risks within selected partner countries.

Additionally, the coherence of instruments within Germany and their relationship to instruments used by other multilateral donor organisations (like the UN or OECD) were explored. The project included interviews with upper management and the supervision of assessment and strategy processes in six countries. Another key component of the study was its work to establish the coherence with which these issues are approached in the German Federal Government’s strategic activities; this included, for instance, matters such as the provision of a conflict-sensitive supply of raw materials as part of efforts to achieve a low-carbon economy.