The Better Evidence Project (BEP) seeks to improve the evidence available to donors, policy makers, practitioners, and scholars in the peacebuilding community, thus strengthening our collective efforts to address the problems of war and violence.

The problems of war and violence urgently require the concerted efforts of donors, policy makers, practitioners, and scholars in the peacebuilding community. In order to best address the humanitarian catastrophe of war, these efforts must be guided by informed understandings of what works effectively to prevent wars and resolve conflict.
With the generous support of Milt Lauenstein, a group of leading academic, practitioner, and funding organizations met at George Mason University in February 2020 to determine how best to initiate the research needed to produce such evidence. The resulting Better Evidence Project will initially sponsor research on two high priority areas: indicators of change that reflect success in conflict resolution efforts, and learning from local peacebuilding successes. As more resources are available, this research will expand and additional research will work on other priority areas. With a hub at the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution’s Center for Peacemaking Practice, the Better Evidence Project will bring together the expertise of scholars, practitioners, donors, and policy makers, together seeking maximum practical impact in improving conflict resolution practice.
For more information, or to explore partnerships with BEP, contact Jeff Helsing Executive Director. Learn more on the BEP website.