Conflict and Peace Building: Global and Intersectional Perspectives

COURSE OBJECTIVE
The aim of this course is to introduce students to the key concepts and developments of conflict management/transformation, reconciliation and peacemaking in (post-)conflict societies, making special emphasis on the micro-level, i.e. individual dispositions, attitudes and behavior.

When finalizing the course, students will have knowledge and understanding of
- The main concepts and theories of reconciliation, conflict management and peace-building;
- The role of intersectional identities (e.g. religion, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) in reconciliation, conflict management and peace-building;
- The complexity of intercultural and interreligious encounters in (post-)conflict situations;
- The application of multiple perspectives to specific cases of conflict management and peace building in (post-)conflict societies.
- To integrate knowledge of multiple disciplines with the purpose of handling complexity of issues related to peace management and reconciliation and designing effective solutions.

COURSE CONTENT
In order to understand the process through which conflict transformation/reconciliation is constructed after violent political conflicts, and how it shapes individual as well as collective identity, it is necessary to focus on the everyday experiences, interests, and needs of the different actors involved in this process on the micro-level. This course discusses and examines some of the key concepts and developments in the field of conflict management, peacemaking and reconciliation research, providing students with a theoretical and practical understanding of the causes and dynamics of violent ethnic/religious conflicts, models of conflict transformation and resolutions. The course has a strong interdisciplinary approach, combining expertise in religious studies, conflict studies, psychology, sociology, history, and media studies. This interdisciplinary perspective allows a comprehensive understanding of conflict management/peace-making in (post)conflict societies.

TEACHING METHODS
Seminars/lectures are main teaching methods of this course. The students will also have an excursion to the International Criminal Court for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) in The Hague.

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Written assignment

The essay will deal with a topic related to the course theme (to be approved by the lecturer). The ideal topic will combine a specific example of conflict and peace building and theoretical framework discussed during the class. Size: max 3000 words. Deadline will be announced, to be submitted through Canvas. Criteria include the following:
- Precise description of the phenomenon/issue/conflict/peacebuilding
- Analysis of theoretical questions -
Critical connection of phenomenon and theoretical reflection
- Use and proper referencing of literature
- Use and proper referencing of classroom materials
- Language and presentation

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE
An interest in conflict and peace-bulding studies.