In an era of increasing globalization, the experiences of societies merging from crisis and conflict highlights the importance of statehood and state institutions as frameworks for promoting human security, welfare and the rule of law. Participants at a state-building workshop discussed methods of achieving legitimate institutions, including understanding and prevention of conflict, clarifying and quantifying state functions, the transition of leadership through state-building, and appropriate application of international support. Based on a wide range of post-conflict experience, workshop attendees emphasized the interconnectedness of various functions of statehood and the need to use the peace building process to close skills gaps and establish a strong national vision.