UK Civil Society Atrocity Prevention Working Group

The Group meets formally a minimum of twice a year, at an annual goal-setting workshop and an AGM. We also meet regularly every six weeks to share updates and engage in a thematic discussion. The working group also meets on an ad hoc basis to respond to urgent situations and emerging threats of mass atrocities. We organise informal events such as bringing experts to speak to the Group and social networking activities.

All our member commit to ensuring the Group is a positive and inclusive network, which actively seeks diverse perspectives, especially those of the people our work aims to benefit most, and always keeping in mind as our guiding star our shared commitment to a world without mass atrocities. All members commit to recognising that this works begins at our own tables, within our own sector, and within our own organisations. 

We agree that no one organisation can end identity-based violence alone. A stronger, more confident and connected civil society, which engages in collaborative efforts, utilising the strengths and diverse perspectives of different organisations, will make a greater contribution to reducing the risk of identity-based violence and mass atrocities.

The Working Group also operates as network of early warning, sounding alarm and drawing attention to critical moments where coordinated action from the membership could make a difference. Our internal communication channels are used to flag opportunities for coordinated action and advocacy in the UK and with our international partners.

At times, the work carried out by the organisations and individuals that make up our group can be particularly mentally and physically challenging. Self-care is a critical component of our individual, organisational, and community’s mental health. At the Autumn 2019 annual workshop, it was agreed that the working group would place greater emphasis on self-care and mutual support. We are committed to supporting the development of healthy, inclusive, and empathetic strategies for working in this field.   

Covid-19 is already presenting us with unique challenges to our work, our mental health, and our resilience, as individuals, as teams, and as a sector.  We are all worried about the vulnerable communities we work with and to support, both here in the UK and around the world. Other worries such as how to support our staff, how to fundraise, how to adapt programming, and how to uphold our charitable objectives are likely to occupy many of us for the foreseeable future. The Working Group provides the space and opportunity for our members to confront these challenges together.