Unit Outline
This unit focuses on what peace, conflict and violence mean, how conflicts emerge and develop, and what can be done to build a lasting peace. Political interactions between countries are often viewed in terms of peace or conflict, or a combination of both. In fact, the various case studies of these interactions almost without exception revolve around a (perceived) clash of interests between the parties involved. Unpicking the dynamics between these parties, how history has shaped their relations, how an imbalance or balance of power influences them and how IGOs (intergovernmental organizations), NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and legal frameworks enable or restrict them is a challenging task.
1. Is the use of violence ever justified?
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2. What causes conflicts to develop?
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3. How do conflicts evolve over time?
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4. Can peace be achieved by managing conflicts?
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