Non-state actors such as armed groups are key actors in contemporary conflicts and as such represent major stakeholders in peace processes.
CPCS believes that including non-state actors in conflict transformation processes and investing in the creation of a culture of peace among these groups is essential to reach lasting peace.
In our work with non-state actors we aim to transform their focus from armed struggle to one of dialogue and negotiations to meet their demands and aspirations. To this end, CPCS supports non-state actors such as armed groups in the development of more effective negotiations skills, encourages cohesive leadership, creates safe and conducive spaces for dialogue and critical reflection, and facilitates exposure visits of key players to other conflicts contexts to expand their comparative knowledge in transition from conflict to peace.