ACLED (Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project

The Evolution of ACLED: Advancing Conflict Data Collection and Analysis

The Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) has undergone significant transformations over the past decade, evolving into a leading platform for collecting and analyzing data on political violence and demonstrations worldwide. Founded in 2010 as a small-scale academic project focused on documenting political violence in Africa, ACLED has grown into an independent non-governmental organization with a global team of researchers.

One of the key changes that have contributed to ACLED's growth is its expansion beyond its initial focus on political violence in Africa. The project now covers a broader range of events, including protests, riots, and other forms of collective action, across multiple regions worldwide. This expanded scope has enabled ACLED to provide more comprehensive insights into the complex dynamics of political conflict and social unrest.

Another significant development has been the improvement of ACLED's data quality and timeliness. The project now collects nearly one million events in its public dataset, which is complemented by a range of analytical reports and methodological advancements. This increased focus on data quality has enabled researchers to rely more heavily on ACLED as a source for their studies.

ACLED's engagement with researchers has also deepened over the years. The project now collaborates closely with academics, policymakers, and humanitarian organizations to provide data-driven insights that inform decision-making and policy development. This collaboration has led to the development of new methodologies and tools for analyzing conflict data, which have been made available to the broader research community.

One of the most notable innovations in ACLED's methodology is its use of real-time data collection. The project's global team of researchers collects and verifies event reports on a daily basis, allowing for near-real-time analysis of political violence and demonstrations. This has enabled policymakers and humanitarian organizations to respond more quickly and effectively to emerging crises.

In conclusion, the evolution of ACLED over the past decade reflects its commitment to advancing conflict data collection and analysis. The project's expanded scope, improved data quality, and increased engagement with researchers have all contributed to its growth as a leading platform for understanding political violence and social unrest worldwide. As ACLED continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges and opportunities, it is likely to remain an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, and humanitarian organizations seeking to understand and address the complex dynamics of conflict and political change.

ACLED (Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project