Our mission
The Centre on Armed Groups supports efforts to reduce violence and end armed conflict.
We do this through conducting innovative research, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and providing practical advice.
Marshalling extensive experience and insights through our network of experts and practitioners, the Centre is a unique resource for governments, researchers, aid actors and the private sector.
Our strategy
The nature of armed groups is changing, and so must our approach to dealing with them. Our 2023-2025 strategy - Armed Groups in a Changing World - outlines the Centre’s approach to better understanding and engaging with armed groups amid an increasingly fractious geopolitical order.
Our reach
Our network of experts focuses on conflict and violence focused in more than 30 countries and territories, with specialised expertise on over 50 different armed groups.
Our added value
Expertise
Our network has decades of experience across a range of conflict contexts
Presence
Based in Geneva with on the ground expertise, across frontlines
Access
Track record of groundbreaking research directly with armed groups and civilians living under their control
Agility
A light footprint allows us to be flexible, use resources effectively and mobilize quickly
Integrity
Independent, principled engagement, with professional rigour and transparency
Trust
An impartial third party able to support confidential dialogue and create safe spaces
Annual Report 2023
In a year marked by growing tensions and escalating conflicts, the Centre continued to advance research and engagement efforts aimed at reducing violence and suffering. Our work in 2023 grew significantly, with new partnerships and projects, and meaningful contributions to the field.
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The Centre began as the Centre for the Study of Armed Groups, founded in 2020 and hosted by ODI, a leading UK global affairs think-tank. You can read more about our work during this incubation period here.
In 2022, we transitioned into an independent organization registered in Geneva, Switzerland. We also expanded our focus to include more policy engagement and direct support.
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We are led by a team of three co-directors. A committee provides operational oversight, and a network of advisors guides the substance of our work.
Our greatest strengths lie in our extensive network of experts. We draw on their expertise and insights to shape and carry out our work.
Learn more about our team and structure here.
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We collaborate with a wide range of partners, including the International Centre for Tax and Development at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS), Interpeace, ODI, and others.
Current and past funders include the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the US Agency for International Development (USAID), among others.
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The Centre is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct and safeguarding across all its work. We expect all staff, consultants, volunteers, and partners to adhere to our policies, which prohibit corruption, fraud, and any form of sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment (full policies are available on request, contact info@armedgroupscentre.org).
Failure to meet these standards will result in immediate action, which may include disciplinary measures, termination of employment or partnership, and legal action, as applicable. We have established a confidential and secure reporting mechanism for any alleged incidents of fraud, corruption or SEAH.
Any complaints or concerns about the Centre or the conduct of its staff and partners should be emailed to: accountability@armedgroupscentre.org. This allows for direct reporting to the Centre’s Committee and ensures that all complaints are investigated thoroughly and impartially.