SBC in Conflict: Training Module for Polio Outbreak Response

"Conflict is one of the main factors in the resurgence of polio. To achieve polio eradication goals, it is important to adapt our approaches and strategies to the specific context of each conflict."

This training module is designed to equip training participants with the knowledge and tools to integrate social and behaviour change (SBC) strategies into polio eradication efforts in conflict-affected areas. It seeks to provide actionable insights for addressing challenges in fragile contexts and for ensuring effective immunisation outcomes.

As stated in the training module, "Of the 541 polio cases in 2023, 85% live in 31 fragile/conflict countries. Polio cases in these countries have more than doubled over the past five years. Conflict is one of 4 determinants of immunization coverage. In 2018, 60% of the world's 0-dose children lived in fragile and conflict zones." Interventions in these areas face unique challenges that include, for example: reduced availability, accessibility, and affordability of services due to insecurity and limited operational capacity; erosion of trust; and a breakdown or disruption of social cohesion. To achieve polio eradication goals, it is therefore important to adapt approaches and strategies to the specific context of each conflict.

At the end of the training session, participants should be able to:
 

• Describe the programming stages of SBC in conflict;
• Explain the impact of conflict in immunisation programme and its associated challenges; and
• Understand SBC approaches and strategies in insecure settings.

The key components of the module include:
 

• An outline of the impact of conflict on immunisation activities and community behaviour
• Guidance on the different stages of SBC programming: situation analysis, strategy design and planning, implementation, and monitoring and evaluation
• A description of SBC approaches and strategies in conflict settings related to three areas: access (negotiation, collaboration, and partnership with local government authorities, insurgent groups and other humanitarian organisations to improve access), SBC issues (identification, recruitment, and engagement with community informants within conflict-affected areas to conduct social mapping, to implement community engagement activities and to share critical information, including security threats), and urban banditry (working with gang leaders)
• Key learnings and messages from SBC in security-compromised settings
• Examples of successful strategies in conflict settings from countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), including coordination with armed and rebel forces, and community engagement and champion approaches. 
   

For tools and templates related to conflict-sensitive SBC programming, see "Integrating Conflict Perspective into 'Behavioral Strategy': Planning Tools" under Related Summaries, below.