Conflict Resolution (ESS.2019.012)
Conflict resolution is the set of methods and approaches used to facilitate the peaceful de-escalation and termination of a conflict. Defined broadly, it may include democratisation or even development. Indeed, political participation through democratic processes may be a method to avoid conflict in the first place or at least to ensure the fair treatment of the causes of the conflict. Alternatively, conflict resolution can be defined more narrowly to refer solely to those efforts undertaken to resolve conflicts directly through communication (negotiation, mediation, peace conference, diplomacy, etc.).
The course explores traditional and alternative techniques in conflict resolution with a narrow focus on activities which directly aim at resolving international conflicts through communication. The course explores existing conflict and conflict resolution theories, methods and practices relevant for the resolution of conflicts in which United Nations peace operations are deployed.
At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Distinguish and apply conflict and conflict resolution theories;
- Apply conflict resolution tools to a current conflict;
- Describe and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the main diplomatic tracks in light of a case study;
- Appraise mediation and negotiation techniques;
- Prepare for negotiations and mediation in a current conflict;
- Discuss the role of the United Nations and regional organisations in conflict resolution.
This self-paced course is composed of five modules:
- Module 1: Research on conflict resolution
- Module 2: Introduction to conflict resolution
- Module 3: Diplomatic tracks in conflict resolution
- Module 4: Methods in conflict resolution
- Module 5: The United Nations and regional actors in conflict resolution
In each module, the interactive learning components introduce the key points and provide background information. Activities such as research, reflection and case studies allow participants to apply the knowledge acquired through the lessons. Discussions are organized for participants in order to facilitate collective knowledge construction and sharing of experiences.
The course is open to anyone interested in conflict resolution, including practitioners working in post-conflict contexts, field workers, and international volunteers. United Nations Volunteers, holding a valid contract, can benefit from a reimbursement from the UNV Programme. Students are entirely responsible for ensuring their eligibility and requesting their reimbursement directly with the UNV office.
Technical Requirements
UNITAR recommends the following as a minimum in hardware and software to take our e-Learning courses. Please consult your Network Administrator or Systems person to ensure that you have the following:
Platform:
- Windows XP, 7 or superior;
- MacOS 10.6 (Snow Leopard) or superior;
- Linux.
Hardware:
- Intel Core 2 Duo – or AMD – 3 GHz processor;
- 3 GB of RAM (4 GB recommended);
- Hard drive: 160 GB minimum.
Software:
- Adobe Acrobat Reader;
- Adobe Flash Player.
Browser:
- Google Chrome 30.0 or superior;
- Mozilla Firefox 25.0 or superior;
- Safari 7 or superior;
- Internet Explorer 8 or superior.
Note that JavaScript, Cookies and Popups must be enabled
Mobile:
- Apple iOS in Apple iOS 7 or superior on iPad:
- Articulate Mobile Player;
- Moodle Mobile.
- Android OS in Android OS 4.1 or superior (optimized for tablets):
- Articulate Mobile Player;
- Moodle Mobile.
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