This event addressed the actual and potential applications of geographic information systems (GIS) in post-conflict rebuilding, focusing on data sources, organizational capabilities, products, challenges and lessons learned in the use of GIS. Speakers described case studies relevant to the resettlement of refugees and displaced persons, elections, land distribution, and resources management in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo and El Salvador.

Please note that due to unexpected technical difficulties, a few of the audio files from the Institute's workshop on Geographic Information Systems exhibit poor sound quality. The Institute regrets any inconvenience this may cause. In addition, please note several of the speakers extensively used visual aides throughout their presentations.The views expressed during the workshop do not necessarily reflect those of the United States Institute of Peace, which does not advocate specific policies.

Speakers

Welcome

• Sheryl Brown
  Director, Office of Communications, USIP
  Co-Director of the Virtual Diplomacy Project
   Remarks
  (2:51 audio; 1.6 MB download)

Presentations:

Bosnia Forest Assessment: Using Satellite Remote Sensing to Foster Inter-Entity Cooperation in Resources Management

• Harry Bader
  Professor of Natural Resources Management
  University of Alaska, Fairbanks, currently on leave at Yale University, School of Forestry and Environmental Studies
   Remarks
  (10:40 audio; 6 MB download)
• Andrew Balser
  Remote Sensing Specialist
  University of Alaska, Fairbanks
   Remarks
  (15:01 audio; 8.6 MB download)
   Q&A
  (1:10 audio; 953 KB download)

GIS and Election Analysis in Post-Dayton Bosnia

• Lee R. Schwartz
  Chief of the Division of Global Issues
  Office of the Geographer and Global Issues
  Department of State
   Remarks
  (24:03 audio; 13.7 MB download)

GIS and Related Technologies for a Land Distribution Program in El Salvador

• Julio Segovia
  GIS Specialist, Strategic Development Office
  U.S. Agency for International Development
  U.S. Embassy, San Salvador
   Remarks
  (20:39 audio; 11.8 MB download)
   Q&A
  (14:44 audio; 8.4 MB download)

Cross-Border Crisis Intervention: The Use of GIS in Kosovo

• William B. Wood
  Geographer and Director of the Office of the Geographer and Global Issues
  Department of State
   Remarks
  (34:56 audio; 19.9 MB download)

Moderator:

• Carmelle J. Côté
  International Relations/GIS Consultant
  Environmental System Research Institute (ESRI) Inc.

Wrap Up:

• Ted Okada
  Director, Food for the Hungry
   Remarks
  (10:12 audio; 7 MB download)