Key Debates in Peace and Conflict Studies

6 unitsSem 1In Person

Department of International Relations · ANU College of Asia and the Pacific

About this course

All inquiries for this course should be directed to the lecturer: babatunde.obamamoye@anu.edu.au For millions of people worldwide, violent conflict or the threat of violent conflict, is a daily reality. In today’s rapidly changing world, it is imperative that our responses to conflict are effective, well-informed and context appropriate. This course encourages students to think creatively about the drivers of modern armed conflict and understand a range of approaches to conflict resolution and peacebuilding. The course asks the questions: What are the defining characteristics of modern conflict? What are their causes? What are the various pathways to conflict resolution? How can a sustainable peace be built? Who builds it? How should we respond to mass atrocities? How can we prevent conflicts and mass atrocities from taking place? Drawing on a range of case studies, students will consider topics such as conflicts, displacement, negotiation, mediation, conflict transformation, peacekeeping, humanitarian intervention, the responsibility to protect, peacebuilding, DDR, statebuilding, nationbuilding, reconciliation, and transitional justice.

Learning outcomes

1Demonstrate a broad knowledge of conflict and its consequences, along with the conceptual foundations for understanding the mechanisms that drive these components of human societies
2Develop the conceptual apparatus for analysing different patterns of conflict resolution and peacebuilding, and the specific places and times in which they are relevant
3Gain a fuller appreciation of the practical challenges involved in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, and some of the strategies available to overcome them
4Gain a fuller understanding of the key concepts and debates of the field of peace and conflict studies
5Develop strong oral and written skills, critical analysis skills and gain a practical perspective on conflict resolution and peacebuilding in the 21st century

Assessment

Weights and hurdle requirements come straight from the imported ANU record.

Please note that this assessment is indicative only. The actual assessment for the course is provided in the Class Summary prior to the commencement of the semester in which the course is being conducted and may differ from this assessment.

Presentation of a reading