Institution Building Institution building is a long-term process that requires the participation of relevant stakeholders at different levels. This includes political parties as well civil society actors and community and religious leaders. The participation of minority communities contributes to the development of a sense of ownership—enhancing their stake in society at large. It is further crucial to recognize and develop gender-sensitive approaches to institution building. Moreover, demographically-sensitive approaches need to give special consideration to the needs and interests of youth. Any external support for institution building must be context sensitive and should be provided as long as needed. In order to identify the amount of external support that is (still) required, means of monitoring and evaluating the actual performance of institutions against their respective mandates must be established. At the centre of attention should be the capacity of institutions to fulfil their roles in the service of all citizens, thereby contributing to lasting peace, including political, societal and economic stability. Civil society actors and everyday citizens must be given ample opportunity to weigh in on relevant decision-making processes, for example through public hearings. Biased media, behaving in an ethically irresponsible manner, can play a major role in increasing political or societal tensions and thereby hinder transitions to sustainable peace. It is therefore essential to focus on the establishment of professional and unbiased media, in support of transitions to stable and democratic societies. In post-conflict environments, this is especially important with a view to reconciliation and dealing with the past. 37