Key characteristics of FCV settings

Fragile, conflict-affected, and violent (FCV) settings come with specific challenges for monitoring and evaluation (M&E), shaped by their instability and complexity.  Understanding how different factors—like political upheaval, social tensions, and economic instability—interact is critical to creating effective M&E strategies.

This page breaks down some of the main characteristics and classifications of FCV settings to so that M&E approaches can be better tailored to the realities on the ground.

On this page:

• What is 'M&E in FCV'
• Type of setting
• Diversity of settings
• Temporal aspects
• Dimensions of fragility

What is 'M&E in FCV'?

Monitoring and evaluation in Fragile, Conflict-affected, and Violent settings refers to monitoring and evaluation practices in environments where the social, political, and economic systems are unstable and there is an ongoing or recent history of conflict and violence.

These conditions require a unique approach to monitoring and evaluation that addresses common evaluation challenges that are worsened in Fragile, Conflict-affected, and Violent (FCV) environments and unique challenges specific to these settings.

Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) in FCV typically focuses on monitoring and evaluating three main sectors:

1. Development: Focusing on programs aimed at fostering economic, social, and institutional development in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
2. Humanitarian: Focusing on programs that provide emergency aid and relief to populations affected by crises and conflicts.
3. Peacebuilding: Focuses specifically on FCV-related programming and initiatives that address the factors that contribute to violent conflict and the key actors involved.

In recent years, both humanitarian and peacebuilding sectors have emphasised their respective nexuses with the sustainable development sector. While all three areas operate in FCV settings, there are key differences between them with implications for how the M&E focus and approach may differ. A key distinction is whether the project or program is operating within an FCV context (such as development or humanitarian) or whether the focus of the project or program is specifically on FCV issues (such as peacebuilding). This thematic page is primarily focused on the former. However, aspects of the information will also be useful for those working in the peacebuilding sector. 

Classifying FCV settings

Type of setting

Fragile, conflict-affected, and violent settings are complex and multifaceted, with several key characteristics and terms specifically associated with these environments:  

• Fragile settings are often characterised by weak governance structures where state institutions lack the capacity to manage internal and external shocks effectively. This leaves these regions vulnerable to political, economic, and social disruptions, which can significantly impact their stability and development.
• Conflict-affected areas are considered ‘dangerous spaces’ where ongoing or recent conflicts disrupt daily life. These disruptions often lead to widespread displacement, humanitarian crises, and long-term developmental setbacks (World Bank, 2023).
• Violent and violently divided societies are marked by long-standing and deep animosity and regular violence. These settings often require extensive peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts to achieve stability (Bush & Duggan, 2015). Divisions are often along ethnic, religious, or political lines, leading to persistent and violent conflict (World Bank, 2024). 

Additional terms describe specific FCV contexts:

• Contested areas involve groups vying for control and authority, further fueling disputes and violence.
• Remote and sensitive spaces are isolated areas with high tension, requiring thoughtful and context-specific M&E practices to avoid re-traumatising communities and exacerbating conflicts (World Bank, 2024).
• Crisis contexts include zones of ‘insecurity,’ with the most dangerous settings, often referred to as ‘frontline’ areas, being unsafe for operational staff.

Diversity of settings

Conflict and fragility are related but distinct concepts in international development. While not all fragile contexts experience violent conflict, many do, creating environments with overlapping challenges. The 2022 OECD States of Fragility Report highlights that conflict-affected fragile contexts often face compounded risks, including environmental vulnerabilities, economic instability, food insecurity, social inequalities, and resource dependencies. These interconnected issues necessitate comprehensive and differentiated approaches to development and peacebuilding.

Temporal aspects

FCV settings can be understood by considering the timing and intensity of FCV triggers and instability. Although the labels "Pre-FCV," "Mid-FCV," and "Post-FCV" are commonly used in the literature, it’s important to recognise that these terms may imply a linear progression or a static situation. In reality, these phases can be cyclical or iterative, and multiple elements of fragility, conflict, and violence may be present simultaneously. The following descriptions provide a general framework, but evaluators should remain aware of the complexities and overlaps that can occur in FCV settings:

• Pre-FCV: These are fragile but relatively stable settings where standard evaluation methods can be used. Stakeholders are easier to engage, safety concerns are minimal, and findings can usually be shared and used in straightforward ways to improve programs.  
• Mid-FCV: These are active conflict settings where safety is a major concern, and evaluation methods must adapt to rapidly changing conditions. Neutrality is challenging, data collection may be severely limited, and various conflict actors can restrict or manipulate findings.
• Post-FCV: Post-conflict environments are still affected by fragility. Safety concerns persist, and evaluations must be sensitive to ongoing trauma and shifting stakeholders and priorities. The dissemination of findings should be sensitive to the potential impact on fragile post-conflict dynamics.

Dimensions of fragility

Fragility is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon encompassing various dimensions: economic, environmental, human, political, security, and societal, all of which contribute to overall fragility. A region might experience severe fragility in one dimension while remaining stable in others.

The States of Fragility Report emphasises that fragility and conflict exist on a spectrum, with varying degrees of vulnerability across different aspects of society and governance. Understanding these variations is crucial for developing M&E interventions and policies that address specific weaknesses while leveraging existing strengths. This approach also highlights the interconnected nature of these  dimensions, suggesting that M&E strategies must be responsive to how changes in any dimension may alter the operational landscape.