Doel vak

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.

Inhoud vak

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.

Onderwijsvorm

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.

Toetsvorm

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

Literatuur

Cordell, K. & Wolf, S. (2009). Ethic Conflict: Causes, Consequences and
Responses. Cambridge: Polity (mandatory).

Additional articles will be added later.

Doelgroep

Students in the minor Peace and Conflict Studies.
The course is also open as an elective course.

Aanbevolen voorkennis

Those students interested in conflict and peace-bulding studies.