Peace Processes and IDP Solutions

Abstract

The forcible uprooting of people is an inevitable consequence of armed conflict.The processes by which peace agreements are negotiated and implemented will determine whether and under what conditions internally displaced persons (IDPs) will return home or whether other solutions will be necessary or possible.If countries newly emerging from conflict are able to find durable solutions for IDPs and other waraffected populations, it is a significant bellwether for the success of the overall peace process.IDP concerns arise most visibly in the humanitarian practices of government and insurgent parties prior to the conclusion of an overall peace agreement.Subsequently, the language in peace agreements about procedures for refugee returns also encompasses IDP questions.Over the long term, the integration of IDPs depends on the local, regional, and national implementation of agreed principles.International monitoring of local implementation is weak at best.