Sneak Peek for 2012

Jan 4, 2012

2011 was an eventful year for FCNL’s Peaceful Prevention of Deadly Conflict program. Key investments for peace were protected in spite of a strained economic climate. The State Department elevated deadly conflict prevention as a core mission, and President Obama created a new interagency Atrocities Prevention Board. In the coming year, PPDC will build on these successes to further strengthen the US foreign policy toolbox to prevent, rather than fight, war.

Budget

After President Obama releases the 2013 budget request on February 6, Congress will begin to debate the various appropriations bills. As the economy remains shaky and the deficit out of control, we expect pressure to cut funding for programs that peacefully prevent deadly conflict. Funding for the Civilian Response Corps, Complex Crises Fund , and contributions to the United Nations will likely be on the chopping block. FCNL will lobby to protect these vital investments.

Atrocities Prevention Board

Last year, President Obama created an interagency Atrocities Prevention Board . The Administration will release a series of recommendations in 2012 to improve the U.S.’ ability to prevent mass atrocities. FCNL has advocated for such a structure for several years, and will closely monitor the work of this new structure for peace.

Conflict Stabilization Operations Bureau

The State Department created a new Conflict Stabilizations Operations bureau in late 2011. This bureau will manage the Civilian Response Corps and develop new tools to peacefully prevent deadly conflict. In 2012, FCNL will work to educate Congress and secure funding for the new bureau and closely monitor its early work.