Fragile & Conflict Affected States Framework Agreement (FCAS)

2012 to 2014

n/a

Department for International Development

Identifying and sourcing consultants; bid preparation; logistical and financial management; and contract implementation

DFID and the UK Stabilisation Unit have established the Fragile & Conflict Affected States Framework Agreement (FCAS) to deliver the current government’s objectives as set out in the Building Stability Overseas Strategy document (July 2011).

This document was developed jointly by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, DfID and the Ministry of Defence and not only sets out the need for a cross-government strategy towards addressing conflict around the world, but also the linkages between building strong and legitimate institutions abroad and greater national security at home.

When violent conflict breaks out, the costs to the country and the international community are enormous. Lives are lost, people are displaced and trade links are cut. Schools shut down, hospitals are destroyed and businesses cannot operate. For these reasons, war is often termed 'development in reverse'. The UK aims to tackle these problems by promoting democracy, security, stability and prosperity in countries and regions where its interests are at stake.

Significant resources have therefore been directed towards addressing the needs of fragile and conflict affected states, and this Framework Agreement is part of that. DfID’s role and projects under the Agreement will aim to carry a wider political significance, “helping to strengthen positive political dynamics, overcome divisions, or demonstrate a ‘peace dividend’”.

HTSPE is one of 40 suppliers who will be invited to bid on projects relevant to their expertise to be rolled out under the Framework Agreement (‘mini-competitions’).

HTSPE has been shortlisted for all four thematic areas and we expect to receive requests for services from DFID and the SU over the next two years, and to engage consultants, with the appropriate profiles, for both short- and long-term assignments.

A – Governance, security & justice
State-building, peace-building and conflict analysis and response; building ‘good enough’ government institutions; understanding and strengthening politics, political processes and accountability; security sector reform; justice sector reform and rule of law; strategic communications.

B – Livelihoods, infrastructure & private sector development
Engaging the private sector in accelerating economic and political recovery; sustaining/building immediate livelihoods and economic recovery; strengthening basic infrastructure.

C – Social development & civil society
Understanding the social and political context; building stronger and more resilient societies through formal and informal decision-making; civil society strengthening in hostile environments.

D – Education services
Education policy and administrative management; basic education; secondary and tertiary education.

DFID has already outlined an indicative pipeline for mini-competitions in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Democratic Republic of Congo and Niger.