9. Outlook for 2018

In 2018, the ISSSS Technical Secretariat will continue supporting and coordinating the roll out of the ISSSS. Firstly, it will closely support implementation of existing programs and oversee the finalization of the forthcoming Beni program expected to be launched towards the second quarter of 2018. Increased political engagement with conflict actors will be critical for the impact and sustainability of these programs. Hence, in 2018 the ISSSS Technical Secretariat supported by MONUSCO’s leadership will continue advocating for more government engagement and push for the validation and implementation of strategic compacts with authorities at both national and provincial level.

Further, emphasis will be placed on the monitoring of results through the M&E framework of the ISSSS and documenting of lessons learned, especially with regard to the political engagement strategy in South Irumu as a model for other Priority Zones. In this regard, a second Survey of Practice on stabilization will be produced with the support of the Department of Peacekeeping Operations’ Division for Policy, Evaluation and Training. Gathering evidence of the added value of the ISSSS and its limitations as an approach to stabilize communities in conflict is vital, in view of future expansion plans and the scaleup of the approach and methodology both within and potentially outside in the DRC. Mid-2018 will also see a participatory review of the existing ISSSS pillars and priority zones in light of evolving context of the ISSSS since its revision in 2012. The ISSSS as an approach needs to remain flexible to be able to provide the most appropriate response to a fluid socio-economic and political context. Strengthening our partnerships and coordination with stabilization actors working in the ISSSS priority zones and further invest in building their capacities will be a further priority in 2018 to maximize the impact of stabilization interventions on the ground. The ISSSS Technical Secretariat will continue to support existing coordination mechanisms in the different zones, hold coordination meetings with implementing partners, UN agencies, NGOs, MONUSCO sections and other key actors, whilst providing technical assistance and training. Additionally, collaboration with the UNCT and the GoDRC at large will be prioritized, to ensure the ISSSS is consistent with national priorities and reflected in national plans such as the National Strategic Development Plan book 3 and the UN Development Assistance Framework 2019-2023, both under preparation.

Finally, in line with the recommendations of MONUSCO’s Strategic Review, the ISSSS Technical Secretariat in consultation with its key partners, will develop a detailed roadmap in order to operationalize ISSSS expansion and transition plans.