The Politics of Peace and Conflict in a Globalised World

Why should I take this Trinity Elective?

War and peace shape our world, influencing everything from international relations to local communities. Understanding the origins of conflict and the possibilities for peace is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. This Peace Studies elective explores key theories and real-world case studies—from Northern Ireland and the Middle East to the role of global organizations like the EU and UN. Through an interdisciplinary lens, you’ll examine how history, politics, gender, religion, and social movements shape both conflict and peacebuilding efforts. If you are interested in global affairs, diplomacy, human rights, or international security, this module will equip you with valuable analytical and problem-solving skills.

What will I learn?

• Critically analyse the causes and dynamics of global conflicts.
• Examine the role of local, regional, and transnational forces in shaping disputes.
• Assess the successes and challenges of conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts.
• Explore the impact of gender, religion, and social movements on both conflict and peace processes.

What will I do?

• Attend lectures exploring key peace and conflict theories.
• Participate in student-led seminars analysing real-world case studies.
• Conduct independent research to deepen your understanding of key conflicts.

How will this be delivered?

• 11 x 1-hour lectures covering foundational concepts and case studies.
• 5 x 1-hour student-led seminars to foster discussion and debate.
• 87 hours of independent study to explore course readings and research key topics.

How will this be assessed?

• Academic poster (40%) – Visually present an analysis of a key conflict or peace process.
• Book review (60%) – Critically engage with a significant text in Peace Studies.

Who can take this Trinity Elective?

This module is open to any student eligible to take a Trinity Elective, offering a unique opportunity to engage with global issues, develop critical thinking skills, and explore real-world approaches to peace and conflict resolution.

* Please note that assessment methods, assessment weightings and amount of contact hours are subject to change by the module coordinator. You can confirm all assessment details and expected contact hours with the module coordinator upon starting the elective.