RDS-90906 Conflict, Development and Disaster

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

Dutch or English

Continuation courses:

Natural Hazards and Disasters

Contents:

In this course contemporary conflicts are linked to issues of (under)development. It is argued how a lack of development or lob-sided, uneven patterns of political and economic development give rise to societal tensions and may finally lead to violent conflict. It is also discussed how properly designed development interventions may help to prevent, mitigate or resolve such conflicts. The course will deal with a number of case studies as well as introduce methodological and conceptual approaches to grasp the nexus between development and conflict. Attention will, among others, be paid to the 'Do-no-harm-approach' and Peace and Conflict Impact Assessments as well as broader conflict-sensitive approaches to development.

Aims:

- to provide an overview of existing conflict theories, concepts and typologies;
- to gain insight into the causes of contemporary conflict;
- to ascertain the relationship between conflict and development;
- to gain insight in prevailing policies and management approaches at local, national and international levels, both governmental and non-governmental;
- to provide an overview of existing frameworks and tools;
- to gain skills in writing an essay assignment.

Activities:

Students are expected to attend the lectures, to read the literature in preparation of the sessions, weekly submit a question regarding the literature, and to actively engage in the discussion.

Examination:

Written exam, complemented with a mark for the questions submitted in the course.

Literature:

For a study guide and further information, please consult www.sls.wau.nl/disasterstudies, send an Email to disaster.studies@wur.nl or ring 0317-482472