Until now, peacebuilding has focussed primarily on strengthening local forces which promote peace (peace constituencies). A strategy to deal with groups which are prepared to use violence and with other spoilers has often been absent, although some attempts have been made to weaken these groups, gain control over them and minimise their influence. It has become apparent, however, that these confrontational strategies are often inadequate and that ways must be found to involve these groups in transformation processes through dialogue and negotiation.

A key prerequisite in developing appropriate strategies is a better understanding of these forces. Their interests, motives, power positions, structures and blocking tactics may vary widely, but this is often not recognised by peace and development organisations. The development of appropriate and targeted strategies to deal with these groups must therefore be based on a detailed analysis of their structures and motives.

But constructive engagement with spoilers is fraught with risks. The main risks include the potential for political manipulation, the "unwitting" legitimation of illegitimate structures, threats to the security of workers on the ground, and loss of image. In view of these risks, many actors are reluctant to engage with these groups.

This presents various challenges and issues for peace and development policy:

1. Development of analytical tools: what do we know about these groups, their interests, motives, power base and resources, their potential scope, internal structures and blocking tactics? Does this analysis offer any entry points for new strategies?
2. What experience has been gained with approaches that aim to integrate these groups into dialogue processes and negotiations?
3. Do any strategies for minimising and controlling the associated risks exist?

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