People who use Do No Harm continually analyze their situations according to the issues and factors that divide individuals and groups from each other and the issues and factors that connect individuals and groups. These two basic categories of Dividers and Connectors provide them with a depth of understanding of the contexts where they work and of the impacts of their work on those contexts. Using these two categories for the basis of their program designs makes a significant difference in understanding, insight, and effectiveness.
“We can create Connectors to bring people together”
Do No Harm has seen many attempts to create new Connectors in post-conflict situations. This usually takes the form of joint economic interaction between groups formerly in conflict. This assumes that economic incentives are enough to overcome Dividers. Unfortunately, this does not prove to be the case when the activities are brand new, having no historical basis. They do not work to reduce tensions or inspire greater connection.
When funding and outside attention lapse, these activities often collapse.
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Related Topics
Assumptions about Dividers
Assumptions about Connectors
Weak Connectors are not Dividers
Common Misunderstandings about Dividers and Connectors
Understanding Dividers and Connectors
Do No Harm SAVES: Categories for Disaggregating a Context