This study on the challenges and opportunities of implementing the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus (or Triple Nexus) was commissioned by the European Commission, EEAS and ECHO. The study builds on the findings of nine country cases, comprising six pilot countries (Nigeria, Uganda, Sudan, Myanmar, Iraq, Chad) and three non-pilot countries (Burkina Faso, DRC and CAR). Enquiries were guided by core questions on Triple Nexus understanding, mobilisation, and implementation.

On Understanding – The report finds a high level of understanding of the Triple Nexus, and recognition of its added-value in addressing contexts of protracted crisis and conflict. However, stakeholders identify various challenges and bottlenecks that impede operationalisation. The report recommends further attention to the EUs policy and operational guidance, more attention to learning and knowledge sharing and more advocacy at international and country levels.

On Mobilisation – The report notes the “hands-off, eyes-on” approach used to mobilise stakeholders, which is considered appropriate, leaving space for country level adaptation. Key Triple Nexus elements, especially joint conflict analysis, joint planning and strong coordination are recognised as essential. However, the human and financial resources to mobilise and sustain engagement were under-estimated. The report recommends continuing the “hands-off, eyes-on” approach, while putting in place a Help Desk to support the country level. More attention should also be paid to strengthening coordination and consultation arrangements within and between the EU and other concerned stakeholders.

On Implementation – The country studies confirm the efforts made to promote coordinated political engagement, align the respective actions of each service around common objectives and address social cohesion. But challenges remain. These include how best to accommodate the peace element, how to ensure respect for humanitarian principles, how best to mobilise financial resources among others. The study also identifies factors related to institutional arrangements, leadership and capacity that impact on progress. Recommendations focus on; fine-tuning how joint conflict analysis is conducted, strengthening the funding architecture for the Nexus, clarifying how best to work with the peace element, making more explicit how the Nexus can guide humanitarian exit and the localisation agenda, furthering efforts to engage EU Member States, and designing a Triple Nexus monitoring framework.