What does "upstream prevention" refer to in the context of PoC?

In the context of Protection of Civilians (PoC), "upstream prevention" refers to the approach of addressing the root causes of conflict as a means to prevent violence against civilians. This proactive strategy recognizes that by tackling the underlying issues—such as social injustice, political oppression, economic disparity, and ethnic tensions—communities can be better equipped to avoid the escalation of violence that threatens civilian safety.

This method focuses on long-term solutions and encourages the development of resilience within societies. It is fundamental to creating a stable environment where the risk of conflict is minimized, thereby protecting civilians before situations deteriorate into violence.

In contrast, immediate assistance during humanitarian crises, post-conflict reconstruction efforts, and military operations to secure peace are responses to violence rather than preventative measures. While important, these activities address the symptoms of conflict rather than preventing the initial causes that lead to violence against civilians. Hence, upstream prevention is critical to achieving sustainable peace and ensuring the safety of populations at risk.