Amsterdam Dialogue 2024

The discussion on Sudan highlighted a protracted conflict that shows few signs of resolution, with civilians and armed groups increasingly at odds. The panel underscored the urgent need for better coordinated regional and international responses, further emphasising the desirability of stronger accountability measures and more sustainable peace strategies. The complexities of mediation efforts and the worsening humanitarian situation, marked by potentially deliberate starvation tactics, were central themes. Attendees agreed that the lack of accountability for past atrocities, particularly during and since the 2003 genocide in Darfur, contributes to perpetuate the current cycle of violence, making it imperative to address these issues to prevent additional atrocities and establish lasting peace.

Exploring the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the conduct of hostilities, the AI and Accountability session revealed both the transformative potential but also the significant risks associated with the use of AI in conflict settings. The case study of Israel’s use of the Lavender programme in Gaza demonstrated how AI can improve target accuracy and accelerate decision making. Yet it also raised important ethical concerns regarding the potential to misclassify targets as well as the opaqueness of AI-based decision-making. Participants called for a robust legal framework and human oversight to ensure a more responsible use of AI in warfare. They also highlighted AI’s potential to enhance accountability and assist mediation efforts in conflict contexts, provided that transparency and rigorous human judgment are maintained.

The second day of the Amsterdam Dialogue opened with a panel on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and its broader implications for crisis management and conflict resolution. The aftermath of Hamas’ attack on 7 October, the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza – compounded by widespread bombings – and the deepening divisions among all populations involved, were central elements of the discussion. The panel also contrasted the inconsistent international response to Gaza with the situation in Ukraine, emphasising the need for a coherent and inclusive political strategy. The panellists stressed the importance of addressing root causes and restoring authority in Palestine to achieve lasting peace and stability.

The discussion on Mali’s shifting political landscape shed light on the challenges and progress in implementing the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Despite significant obstacles, including entrenched patriarchal structures and pervasive poverty, Malian women have played a vital role in peacebuilding and conflict prevention. Participants emphasised the need for sustainable measures to advance women’s roles, such as targeted financial support and legal reforms. They also highlighted the importance of local ownership and international accountability to ensure the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Sri Lanka’s critical juncture, marked by economic and political challenges, was the focus of another panel. The country’s severe economic crisis, exacerbated by debt, mismanagement and systemic corruption, has undermined democratic governance and stability. The panellists discussed the need for transparency in economic decision- making, particularly regarding negotiations with the International Monetary Fund, and called for a cohesive strategy linking economic development to governance reforms. They underscored the importance of a unifying national narrative to bridge community divides and rebuild public trust.

The situation in Haiti, characterised by escalating gang violence and deepening political instability, was another topic of discussion. The panel highlighted the entrenched relationship between armed gangs and political elites, which complicate efforts to establish stable governance. The role of the international community, particularly with regard to the Kenya-led security mission, was seen as critical but fraught with challenges. The discussion emphasised the need for a multifaceted approach combining local initiatives with international support to address the root causes of Haiti’s crisis and pave the way for recovery.

Finally, the ongoing tensions between Somalia and Somaliland were explored as part of the Amsterdam Dialogue’s last panel, which examined past dialogue efforts, the role of external actors and recent developments. The panel described how the January 2024 Memorandum of Understanding between Ethiopia and Somaliland has shifted the status quo, prompting a reassessment of the situation on both sides. The discussion called for a well-crafted dialogue framework focussing on issues beyond independence, with regional and international support to achieve a durable solution. The panel stressed the importance of constructive engagement and the desirability of attaining a common future of peace to help stabilise the region.

Overall, this year’s discussions highlighted the complex interplay of local and international dynamics in conflict contexts, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts, transparency and accountability to achieve sustainable peace and security.