Conflict and Stabilization Operations

Description

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations (CSO) is dedicated to anticipating, preventing, and responding to conflicts that undermine U.S. national interests. CSO programs support diplomatic conflict prevention and stabilization efforts. Short-term, targeted programs work to counter violent extremism, address political instability, and promote security sector stabilization.

Use of Funds

Additional funding recommended here supports data-driven analysis and frontline stabilization advisors to ensure that diplomacy, development, and defense can effectively manage the most complex crises.

Justification

• CSO collaborates with the Department of State’s regional and functional bureaus, the Department of Defense, and USAID to detail stabilization advisors, where they work alongside the military—often U.S. Special Forces.
• CSO uses innovative data analytics to anticipate and prevent instability that could otherwise result in costly military and humanitarian operations.
  • CSO combines unique data analysis with on-the-ground knowledge to make evidence-based recommendations for U.S. policies and programs in conflict zones.
• In 2020 CSO deployed 60 stabilization advisors to 55 countries.
• CSO works across the globe in diverse contexts such as Burkina Faso, Burma, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Haiti, Indonesia, Mozambique, Nigeria, Sudan, Thailand, and Uganda.