INTERNATIONAL CONFLICT RESOLUTION,
POLITICAL VIOLENCE, AND PEACE STUDIES
(IC 4015)
Unit 1: Introduction to Conflict Studies
Prof. John Crisbert B. Lachica, MPA
Political Science Instructor, Tertiary Department
BA Political Science - 4A
What is Conflict?
A Dynamic Process Diverse Manifestations
Conflict is a dynamic process It can manifest as violent or
where two or more parties nonviolent, overt or latent. It
perceive incompatible goals, occurs at all levels, from
scarce resources, or interference interpersonal disagreements to
from others. It's a fundamental international disputes, making it
aspect of human interaction. a pervasive phenomenon.
Underlying Differences
Conflicts are often rooted in
fundamental differences in
interests, deeply held values,
identity perceptions, or the
distribution and exercise of
power, highlighting their complex
nature.
The Nature of Conflict
Conflict is an inevitable and natural part of human relations
and political landscapes. Far from being inherently negative, it
can be a catalyst for change and growth, leading to
constructive outcomes.
However, conflict also carries the potential for destruction,
escalating into violence and systemic breakdown if not
managed effectively. Understanding its dual nature is crucial.
It involves complex emotional, cognitive, and behavioral
dimensions. People's perceptions, feelings, and actions
significantly shape the trajectory of a conflict. Moreover,
conflicts are often multi-layered, with surface-level
disagreements masking deeper, structural causes that require
careful analysis to uncover.
The Scope of Conflict
Multi-Level Occurrence Diverse Typologies Global Examples
Conflict manifests across various scales: Includes political violence, ethnic clashes, From the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to the
interpersonal (between individuals), civil wars, terrorism, and diplomatic Rwandan genocide, and the Cold War's
community (within local groups), national disputes. Nonviolent forms, like protests and strategic tensions, conflicts highlight the
(within states), and international (between negotiations, are also critical aspects of breadth of human contention and its
states or global actors). conflict dynamics. historical impact.
Understanding this broad scope is essential for effective analysis and intervention, as the nature and dynamics of conflict vary significantly
across these levels and types.
Why Study Conflict?
1 Prevent Escalation 2 Develop Strategies 3 Empower Professionals
Studying conflict helps anticipate and It enables the creation of effective Critical knowledge for policymakers,
mitigate risks, preventing minor strategies for resolution, sustainable diplomats, non-governmental
disagreements from escalating into peacebuilding, and meaningful organizations, and scholars working
destructive violence. reconciliation in post-conflict towards global stability and human
settings. security.
Conflict Studies: An Interdisciplinary Field
Conflict studies synthesizes insights from diverse academic
disciplines, including political science, sociology, psychology,
history, law, and economics, to provide a holistic
understanding.
It rigorously analyzes the causes, dynamics, and resolution
methods of conflict. This involves exploring various theoretical
frameworks such as Realism, Constructivism, and Conflict
Transformation, each offering unique perspectives on power,
identity, and change in conflict situations.
The field heavily relies on case studies and empirical research
to validate theories and inform practical approaches to peace
and conflict resolution globally.
Key Concepts in Conflict Studies
Structural Violence Positive Peace
Harm caused by systemic inequalities and injustices, even More than just absence of war; it's the presence of social justice,
without direct physical violence, like poverty or discrimination. equality, and well-being for all members of society.
Conflict Resolution vs. Transformation Peacebuilding
Resolution focuses on managing and ending conflict, while Long-term processes encompassing activities designed to create
transformation aims to fundamentally change the underlying and sustain peaceful societies, addressing root causes of
dynamics and relationships. conflict.
Real-World Impact: Conflict and Peace Studies in
Action
The principles of conflict and peace studies are actively applied in various global contexts, demonstrating tangible results:
From UN Peacekeeping missions actively reducing violence and protecting civilians in volatile regions to the historic Northern
Ireland Good Friday Agreement, a testament to successful mediation, these applications highlight the field's practical relevance.
Furthermore, the crucial role of international organizations like the UN and NATO, alongside numerous NGOs, in fostering stability
and facilitating dialogue cannot be overstated. Specialized programs also focus on training diplomats and peacebuilders
worldwide, equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate complex negotiations and build sustainable peace.
Challenges in Conflict Resolution
1 Historical Grievances
2 Power Asymmetries & Spoilers
3 External Interventions
4 Cultural Nuances
Addressing these deep-seated issues requires sustained commitment and innovative approaches.
Conclusion: The Importance of Conflict Studies
Conflict, while often daunting in its complexity, is ultimately manageable with the right knowledge, skills, and
strategic approaches. This course, IC 4015, is designed to equip you with precisely these tools.
Studying conflict is not just an academic exercise; it's a vital endeavor that empowers us to build more resilient,
equitable, and sustainable peace in a turbulent world. By understanding the intricate dynamics of conflict, from its
roots to its resolution, we can move beyond mere crisis management to genuine transformation.
As future political scientists, your grasp of conflict studies will be key to shaping a more just and peaceful world. You
will be on the front lines of analyzing, mitigating, and ultimately resolving the disputes that challenge global stability.
Let's delve deeply into these crucial themes throughout the semester.
