"Consideration of social norms is a key component missing from many anti-corruption efforts, and we believe this absence partially explains the difficulty the sector has experienced in stimulating lasting behavior change away from corrupt practices. This is particularly true in fragile and conflict- ... affected states. Yet they are often overlooked in efforts to understand why corrupt patterns of behavior (regardless of the form) exist and why they are so resilient to intervention. Social norms are the mutual expectations held by members of a group about the right way to behave in a particular situation. They matter tremendously to the choices an individual makes about how to behave in certain situations because people want to be liked and to belong. We often follow prevailing group behaviors to gain or avoid losing social appreciation, respect, and acceptance. Whether a corrupt act is supported by mutual expectations within a group will influence an individual’s choice to participate in or resist the corrupt practice in a particular context. The desire to belong and behave “correctly” may lead the individual to engage in corruption, even if he or she believes corruption is wrong and that people should act with integrity. The importance of belonging can override contrary attitudes, morals, and even the prospect of legal penalties, particularly in fragile states where uncertainty and insecurity prevail and one’s social connections are key to survival." (Introduction, page 8-9) more

"This report outlines an approach for developing guidance on evaluating conflict prevention and peacebuilding activities. It draws on a broad document review and interviews with key experts, and has been developed in consultation with the DAC Networks on Conflict, Peace and Development Co-operation ... and on Development Evaluation. First, the report specifies which types of work can be considered conflict prevention and peacebuilding activities, distinguishing between conflict sensitivity and conflict prevention and peacebuilding work. The challenges of evaluating in this field are discussed and recommendations are made on key concepts and important elements for the process, including conducting a conflict analysis; examining theories of change; understanding impacts; programming to support evaluation; and choosing evaluation methodologies and approaches. The report also looks at the applicability of existing DAC tools, and adapts the DAC Criteria for Evaluating Development Assistance to the conflict prevention and peacebuilding field. Finally, it outlines the next steps for the DAC Networks in developing guidance." (Abstract) more