Description

Since the end of the Cold War, ideological rivalries have largely given way to nationalism and ethnic conflict as the primary drivers of strife within and between nations. From ethnic and religious violence to clan-based struggles, cultural divisions have destabilized countries and regions, often spilling across borders to threaten global security. Scholars warn that these conflicts—frequently framed as ethnic, nationalist, or religious—challenge not only regional stability but also the very concept of world order.

Even in so-called "unified" First World nation-states, cultural tensions have surged, evident in the rise of secessionist movements and anti-immigrant political parties. Minority groups worldwide are increasingly vocal, demanding recognition and rights, while those in power often respond with repression or violence. The result is a growing wave of nationalist conflicts—ranging from mass expulsions to state-sponsored genocide—that has tested traditional notions of state sovereignty and sparked international humanitarian interventions.

Despite widespread acknowledgment of this nationalist resurgence, experts remain divided on its origins, meaning, and solutions. Debates intensified with Samuel Huntington’s provocative “Clash of Civilizations” thesis, which gained urgency after September 11 and the War on Terror.

Critics argue that the real struggle lies not between civilizations but within competing visions of modernity—one rooted in individualism and democracy, the other in communal identity and self-determination—or what some call a “Clash of Fundamentalism” fueled by religious movements.

This course explores these dynamics, examining the roots of identity-based conflict and the pathways to peace in deeply divided societies. It equips learners with the theoretical tools and practical insights to understand and address one of the defining challenges of our time.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

Through this course, you will:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of nationalism’s emergence, persistence, and its potential to fuel ethnic and religious polarization, violence, and civil war.

Explore the causes, consequences, and responses to identity-based conflicts at national, regional, and global levels.

Develop an integrated perspective on conflict resolution and peace building, blending theory, and real-world practice.

Analyze the social, economic, and political conditions of plural societies grappling with division and strife.

INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Knowledge and Understanding

Apply major theoretical frameworks in nationalism studies to analyze the role of identity in ethno-political conflicts.

Identify conditions that give rise to identity-based conflicts and assess their implications.

Understand the international community’s responses to civil wars and genocide—including preventive diplomacy, mediation, humanitarian intervention, and reconciliation—while grappling with issues of political, moral, and legal responsibility.

Skills

Critically evaluate diverse approaches to studying ethno-political conflicts and designing conflict resolution strategies.

Explain the causes and consequences of identity-based conflicts across multiple global regions.

Competences

Think critically about nationalism and its role in shaping geopolitical and local conflicts.

Propose informed policy solutions to prevent or mitigate identity-based conflicts.

Build a strong theoretical foundation in conflict resolution applicable to real-world challenges.

WHY STUDY PEACE AND CONFLICT?

Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS) seeks to uncover the causes of violence and conflict while developing strategies to transform them into nonviolent resolutions. This course empowers you to contribute to a more peaceful world, locally and globally, by equipping you with valuable knowledge and practical skills. It’s ideal for anyone passionate about resolving disputes, promoting peace, and driving positive societal change—welcoming individuals from all backgrounds united by a shared commitment to this urgent mission.

WHO SHOULD ENROLL?

This course is open to anyone eager to deepen their understanding of conflict dynamics and peace-building. No prior academic credits are required—just curiosity about the world and a desire to make a difference.

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CONFLICT AND PEACEMAKING IN DIVIDED SOCIETIES | Live Online Learning | University-Level Course (Non-Credit)

By Gada Academy

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