Singapore University of Social Sciences

Peacebuilding and Security

Peacebuilding and Security (PSS315)

Synopsis

PSS315 Peacebuilding and Security provides students with an interdisciplinary perspective on the non-violent resolution of human conflict. It highlights the complex interrelationship between economic, political, and social factors, and their relevance for human security. This course will help students identify common sources of conflict, understand conflict dynamics by analysing real-world examples, and identify the various conflict management strategies that are being deployed from the international to the local levels, with a particular focus on Southeast Asia. This course also aims to equip students with a ‘peacebuilding lens’, a set of conceptual tools and strategies that help them communicate their views and proposals in an effective manner, while developing greater sensitivity and openness to other people’s perspectives. The aim is to highlight how the principles of effective peacebuilding generalise to other policy domains and areas of work, such as humanitarian assistance, social work, psychology, sociology, or international relations. The importance of strategic partnerships between these sectors and among various stakeholders will be of special interest in this course.

Level: 3
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every semester

Topics

  • Introduction to peace and conflict studies: the contemporary nature of conflict
  • Social theories of peace and conflict
  • Strategies and methods in conflict analysis
  • The root causes of conflict
  • Agency, power and resistance
  • Major international peacebuilding interventions and practices
  • Good governance and rule of law
  • Human security and basic human needs
  • From international to local peacebuilding
  • Reconciliation, mediation, community development
  • Partnership and cooperation
  • Thematic foci in peacebuilding: gender, religion, youth, economics, environment

Learning Outcome

  • Assess the interrelationship factors in peacebuilding
  • Examine the threats to human security
  • Differentiate peace building initiatives and policies
  • Determine causes of conflict and the interrelationship between various factors
  • Analyse the impact of peacebuilding initiatives
  • Formulate strategies for effective partnership
  • Appraise information from various sources and integrate them in a coherent manner
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