URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/S_CPB

Course Objective

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the causes and dynamics of conflict and the key approaches to conflict transformation, reconciliation and peacebuilding in (post-)conflict societies, with specific emphasis on the local level and with ample attention for individual circumstances and dispositions. When finalizing the course, students will be able to: - understand the main approaches and theories related to the root causes, local dynamics, transformation and resolution of conflicts; - understand the role and complexity of intersectional identities (e.g. religion, gender, class, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) in conflict occurrence, transformation and resolution; - apply multiple perspectives and insights from various disciplines to specific case studies in (post-)conflict societies.

Course Content

Since the early twentieth century, the world has been shaken by war, ethnic cleansing, crimes against humanity and genocide, followed by transitional and transformative phases of conflict management, conflict resolution and peacebuilding. In order to understand the root causes of conflict and its local dynamics as well as conflict transformation and reconciliation efforts, it is necessary to focus on the everyday experiences, interests, and needs of the different actors involved in these processes on the micro-level. This course will therefore integrate local perspectives from various parts of the world in comparison to global trends and developments. Given the changing nature of conflict, this course discusses and examines some of the key concepts and recent developments in relation to distribution and inequality, governance and human rights, as well as the influence of external interventions such as peacekeeping missions and development schemes, and the interplay between local and international justice mechanisms, which all influence the onset, course, and solutions available in situations of conflict. The course will pay attention to these practices and initiatives in different national, cultural and political environments, drawing from examples in Africa, the Americas, (South)East Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Based on various case studies presented by (guest) lecturers with expertise in fields such as migration, religion, ethnicity, gender and development, students will be presented with a comprehensive understanding of the root causes, dynamics, and transformation of conflict in various societies. Students will apply these insights in a group presentation and a written exam with short essay questions.

Teaching Methods


• Interactive (guest) lectures discussing various case studies.
• Working group sessions and group presentations.
• Study visit to an international tribunal and/or NGO in The Hague.

Method of Assessment

Individual exam Group presentation

Literature

Selection of articles and book chapters (available via Canvas and VU library).

Target Audience

Students in the minor Peace and Conflict Studies.

Additional Information

This course has an exam in the last week of November and mandatory tutorials until 13 December. It is not possible to pass the course without taking part in the exam and the tutorials.

Recommended background knowledge

Enrolment in 'Peace and Conflict: From Theory to Practice' is recommended.
Academic year1/09/2431/08/25
Course level6.00 EC

Language of Tuition

  • English

Study type

  • Master
  • Bachelor