Publications by Abi Watson

• Policy brief 30 Sep 2024

  A Growing Gap: EU Peace and Security Funding Beyond Ukraine

  By Abi Watson, Julia Friedrich
  Much of the EU's spending on peace and security-related programs is too rigid to allow for quick responses to emerging crises. And the flexible funds that do exist are already heavily depleted. As a result, many conflict-affected countries now face a funding deficit – unless the EU changes course.…
• Study 09 Jul 2024

  Digital Threats to Elections: Learning From What Has Worked in Africa

  By Abi Watson, Fennet Habte
  To help donors and implementers better mitigate digital threats and safeguard elections, this study relays insights from successful efforts by international, national and local organizations working across the African continent.…
• Commentary 05 Mar 2024

  Europe Needs a Nuanced Approach to Disinformation in African Elections

  By Fennet Habte, Abi Watson
  Africa is experiencing significant democratic backsliding in many countries. In their programs to support democratic elections, European funders should try to ensure they don’t play into the hands of authoritarians.…
• Commentary 07 Nov 2023

  To Save Elections From Disinformation, Fact-Checking Is Only the First Response

  By Abi Watson
  The increasing number of fact-checking initiatives across Africa are crucial for providing credible and accurate information. But they alone cannot address the swelling tide of lies around elections.…
• Study 17 Oct 2023

  Close the Gap: How to Leverage Local Analysis for Stabilization and Peacebuilding

  By Philipp Rotmann, Abi Watson
  Without a granular understanding of the political dynamics at work in places where violence occurs, even the best-intentioned stabilization efforts may go wrong. Local analysis can help, but using it requires sustained investment.…
• Article 11 Sep 2023

  The Two Most Dangerous Self-Deceptions in Security Sector Reform

  By Abi Watson
  In the 20 years since 9/11, those driving security sector reform efforts in the Middle East, the Horn of Africa and the Sahel have acknowledged the limits of tactical fixes. Yet they have relied on them all the same – with profound implications.…
• Interview 16 May 2023

  Shifting the Narrative

  By Abi Watson
  What is it like to work on issues like war and peace, security, governance, and justice – in general and as a woman in particular? A peek behind the curtain with GPPi's Abi Watson.…
• Commentary 26 Aug 2022

  Don’t Stumble at the Start Line: Lessons from the UK’s Integrated Review

  By Abi Watson