MA in Global Peace, Security and Strategic Studies Course Syllabus POL422M Mediation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in Theory and Practice

MA in Global Peace, Security and Strategic Studies
Course Syllabus
POL422M Mediation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in
Theory and Practice
Number of ECTS credits: 6

Time and Place: Classes on Wednesdays, 16:00-18:00 (Room: VeCo 1) and online when COVID
restrictions are in place.
Contact Details for Professor

Name of Professors: Professors Zafer KIZILKAYA and Sean O' DUBHGHAILL
E-mail: Zafer.Kizilkaya@vub.be
E-Mail: seanmarkodubhghaill@gmail.com
Office hours: Wednesdays, 15:00-16:00 (please, schedule an appointment).
CONTENT OVERVIEW
Syllabus Section Page

Course Prerequisites and Course Description 2
Course Learning Objectives 2
Overview Table: Link between MLO, CLO, Teaching Methods, Assignments and 3-5
Feedback
Main Course Materials 6-7
Workload Calculation for this Course 7
Course Schedule – Overview Table 7-8
Detailed Session-by-Session Description of Course 9-14
Course Assessment: Assignments Overview 15
Description of Activities, Grading Criteria and Deadlines: 16-23
Policies for Attendance, Later Work, Academic Honesty, Turnitin 23-24
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Course Description
This elective module provides students with a comprehensive overview of the main theories and
approaches to mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution. The course draws on major case
studies of successful resolution of different types of conflicts across the globe and challenges
students to assess and practice core approaches to mediation and negotiation of conflicts in different
scenarios, with an emphasis on the role of culture.
The course brings together different strands from the sub-disciplines of conflict resolution,
negotiation, and mediation in order to provide students with a solid grounding in diplomatic and non-
violent approaches to peace-making. The course also includes sessions provided by conflict resolution
experts and practitioners from, inter alia, the EU, NATO, and non-governmental organizations.
The focus of the course will be more on political questions such as the forms and causes of armed
conflict and the means of conflict resolution. However, insights from other disciplines such as
sociology, anthropology, philosophy, psychology as well as business administration will broaden our
understanding of the methods employed in conflict resolution.
Course Learning Objectives (CLO)

By the end of this course, students should be able to:
In terms of knowledge:
Learn different perspectives on what causes conflict and under what conditions cooperation
is more likely to succeed;
Learn the role of state and non-state actors in causing, preventing and ending violent conflict;
Learn conflict resolution mechanisms and tools used by regional and international
institutions and organizations;
Apply multi-disciplinary insights from other disciplines (such as sociology, business
administration and anthropology) to concrete policy issues in order to understand the
methods of negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution.
In terms of skills
Use appropriate referencing and bibliographic methods;
Demonstrate effective oral presentation skills;
Demonstrate effective and integrative team-work;
To learn the steps involved in formulating and writing a policy paper;
Use appropriate negotiation and mediation skills within the context of contemporary conflict
situations.
In terms of attitudes, students should develop in this course:
A critical attitude for “life-long learning”;
An attitude of open-mindedness and self-critical reflection with a view to self-improvement;
An open attitude towards inter-cultural team-work.
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LINK BETWEEN PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES, COURSE OBJECTIVES, TEACHING METHODS,
ASSIGNMENTS AND FEEDBACK
Programme Learning Objectives Course Learning objectives Methods used to Teach

addressing the Course Objectives and
Programme Objectives numbers/types of
(testable learning assignments used to test
objectives) these learning objectives
A2. Knowledge of core actors,To learn the role of state and Lecture, discussion, student
organizations, and players at the non-state actors in causing, essays and ‘Mediation and
national, regional and global level – preventing and ending Negotiation’ Simulation.
both in the state and non-state actor violent conflicts.
realm • Mediation and Negotiation
Learn conflict resolution Simulation in Weeks 12 and
mechanisms and tools used 13;
by regional and international • First essay (policy paper) on
institutions and applying theories of CR to a
organizations. concrete policy issue (2,000 -
2,500 words)
• Second essay on the role of
culture in conflict resolution
(CR) theory
A3. Knowledge of major processes, To learn different Lectures will cover key
developments and dynamics related to perspectives on what causes concepts and issues, and
conflicts and the promotion of peace conflict and under what readings will provide
and security conditions cooperation is specific examples.
more likely.
• First essay (policy paper) on
To learn the key mechanisms applying theories of CR to a
used in transcending concrete policy issue (2,000 -
conflicts 2,500 words)
(CR) theory and practice
(2,000 - 2,500 words).
A4. Knowledge of a wide range of To learn the steps in Lectures will cover the steps
quantitative and qualitative research formulating and writing a in writing a policy paper and
methods. Tools, skills and frameworks policy paper. an essay, highlighting the
required for graduate research, major differences between
academic writing and thesis-writing To learn how to formulate a the two.
research question, choose
an appropriate research • First essay (policy paper) on
method and to write an applying theories of CR to a
essay on the role of culture concrete policy issue (2,000 -
in conflict resolution. 2,500 words)
(2,000 - 2,500 words).
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B1. Ability to apply acquired To apply theoretical concepts Lecture, discussion, student
understanding to concrete ‘real-life’ to concrete policy issues in essays and ‘Mediation and
issues and challenges in the areas of three main domains: Negotiation’ Simulation
global peace, security, and strategy
• Conflict theory and the
question of “Why do people • Mediation and Negotiation
fight?” (Apply within the Simulation in Weeks 12 and
context of the Syrian Civil 13;
War) • First essay (policy paper) on
• Conflict resolution theory applying theories of CR to a
and the question of “How concrete policy issue (2,000 -
can people transcend their 2,500 words)
incompatibilities? (Apply
within the context of the
Syrian Civil War)
• Negotiation and Mediation
Theory (Apply within the
context of the peacemaking
efforts in Syria)
B2. Ability to develop and apply ideas To apply multi-disciplinary Lectures will cover how
and arguments emanating from insights from other negotiation and mediation are
interdisciplinary theory, concepts, and disciplines (mainly business approached in other
paradigms in the formulation of administration and disciplines such as business
academic and/or policy-relevant anthropology) to concrete administration and law.
analyses policy issues in order to
broaden our understanding An anthropological reflection
of the methods of conflict will be presented on the role
resolution as well as of the of culture in conflict
role of culture in this field. resolution.
• Mediation and Negotiation

Simulation in Weeks 12 and
13;
applying theories of CR to a
concrete policy issue (2,000 -
2,500 words)
B3. Ability to develop and apply To learn how to apply Mediation and Negotiation
professional skills related to the field of professional skills related to Simulation in Weeks 12 and
security and strategic studies through the fields of negotiation and 13.
experiential learning, simulations, mediation through a
professional skills, workshops, simulation.
internships, or the Capstone Practicum
Course
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D1. Ability to develop and communicate To learn how to carry out • First essay (policy paper) on
arguments, recommendations, and independent research. applying theories of CR to a
research results in a convincing, precise To write clearly and concrete policy issue (2,000 -
and effective manner in written form effectively. 2,500 words)
(2,000 - 2,500 words).
D2. Ability to develop and communicate To learn how to carry out Mediation and Negotiation
arguments, recommendations, and research within a team. Simulation in Weeks 12 and
research results in a convincing, precise To speak and present clearly 13.
and effective manner through and effectively.
the spoken word
E1. An attitude of open-mindedness, To critically reflect on one’s Lecture, discussion, student
academic integrity, critical and self- own assumptions about essays and ‘Mediation and
critical reflection with a view to international conflict Negotiation’ Simulation.
continuously contribute to rigorous resolution.
analysis and academic debates • Mediation and Negotiation
13;
applying theories of CR to a
2,500 words)
(CR) theory
F1. Ability to work effectively in a team To learn how to carry out Lecture, discussion and
with a commitment to supporting the and present research within ‘Mediation and Negotiation’
community of learners through mutual a team. Simulation.
support and leadership • Mediation and Negotiation
13.
F2. Interpersonal skills, including the To learn how to write a Lecture explaining the steps in
ability to network at professional policy paper. writing a policy paper.
events, blog-writing, conference-
organizing and policy analysis writing- • First essay (policy paper) on
skills. applying theories of CR to a
2,500 words).
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Main Course Materials (please note that you can find the readings for each week and
session in the Course Schedule section below):
The course material consists of powerpoint presentations, lecture notes and readings from
the textbook. Powerpoint presentations will be made available after the respective classes
have taken place. A week-by-week overview of the course readings can be found below
alongside a presentation of class’s themes and topics.
The syllabus, powerpoint presentations, and important messages will be uploaded to the
Vesalius portal ‘Canvas’. Students are expected to visit this site regularly to keep abreast of
course evolutions. The professor is expected to upload relevant material in a timely manner.
Course material marked as ‘suggested readings’ and ‘additional sources’ are helpful for
research and to gain an increased understanding, but which are not mandatory. This
material can be found online or will be made available upon individual request.
Textbook:
Recommended References books:
Ramsbotham, O., Woodhouse, T. and Miall, H. (2016). Contemporary Conflict Resolution –

Fourth Edition. (Cambridge, UK: Polity Press).
Wallensteen, Peter. (2019). Understanding Conflict Resolution – Fifth Edition. (London: Sage
Publications).
Active Learning and Intensive ‘Reading around the Subject’: Additional Sources,
Recommended Journals and Websites:
Learning should be an active and self-motivated experience. Students who passively listen to
lectures, copy someone else’s notes, and/or limit their readings to required chapters are
unlikely to develop their critical thinking and expand their personal knowledge system.
These students often fail to demonstrate a critical approach in exams and essays. Students
are strongly recommended to have an updated understanding of developments related to
this course and related to their wider Programme. Active and engaged learning will turn out
to be enriching to the overall course and class discussions. Students are invited to deepen
their understanding of both theoretical and current issues from a variety of sources. Please
find a list of suggestions compassing the entire course below. You are encouraged to read
and browse in the leading journals of the discipline of Conflict Resolution.
Leading Journals in Conflict Studies
International Affairs; Foreign Policy Analysis; Foreign Policy; International Security; European
Journal of International Relations; Cooperation and Conflict; Security Dialogue; International
Studies Quarterly; International Studies Review; Security Studies; Contemporary Security
Policies; European Security; Journal of Peace Research; Journal of Conflict Resolution;
Negotiation Journal; Dispute Resolution Journal; Conflict Resolution Quarterly.
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Websites of Interest:
https://www.beyondintractability.org
http://www.understandingwar.org/
https://www.crisisgroup.org/
https://www.eip.org/
https://www.europeanresolution.com/en/european-institute-for-conflict-resolution/about/
Work Load Calculation for this Course:
This course counts for 6 ECTS, which translates into 150 – 180 hours for the entire semester
for this course. This means that you are expected to spend roughly 10 hours per week on this
course. This includes 2 hours of lectures or seminars per week and 8 hours ‘out of class’ time
spent on preparatory readings, studying time for exams as well as time spent on preparing
your assignments. Please see below the estimated breakdown of your work-load for this
course.
Time spent in class: 2 hours per week / 28 hours per semester

Time allocated for course readings: 6 hours per week / 84 hours per semester
Time allocated for preparing for the negotiation and mediation simulation: 25 hours
Time allocated for preparing for the first essay: 20 hours
Time allocated for preparing for the second essay: 20 hours
Number of reading pages per week: 70 pages
Total hours for this Course: 177 hours
Course Schedule (Overview)
W Date Title of the session and major deadlines (where applicable)
W1 10 Introduction to the Course and Overview of Course and Requirements

February Introduction to Conflict Resolution: The theory
W2 17 The resolution of conflicts between states

February
Guest lecture: Anna Penfrat (Senior Policy Officer, EPLO)
She will have a 30-45 minutes presentation on the Peacebuilding
initiatives at the EU level and the role of non-governmental
organizations in conflict resolution.
W3 24 The resolution of conflicts between states and non-state actors: civil
February wars, ethnic and state formation conflicts
W4 03 Culture and Conflict: The role of culture in instigating conflict

March
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W5 10 Preventing, containing, and ending violent conflict: Peacekeeping and
March Peace-making
Guest lecture: Onur Sultan (Former NATO Officer and PhD Candidate at
the University of Antwerp)
He will have a 30-45 minutes presentation on the conflict in Yemen and
reflect on the attempts to resolve it.
W6 17 Post-war reconstruction, peacebuilding, and reconciliation

March
W7 24 First essay by 23:59 on 24 March.

March To be submitted on Canvas, which uses Turnitin to detect plagiarism.
W8 31 Culture, Religion and Conflict Resolution: How does culture play

March (can/should play) a role in resolving conflicts?
05-18 April
Spring Recess
W9 21 April International Negotiation: The theory.
W10 28 April Introduction to Mediation: The theory
W11 05 May Culture and negotiation behaviour: How do cultures affect negotiation /
mediation behaviour?
Contact and agree with the instructor about the topic for the second
essay before 05 May.
W12 12 May Negotiation and Mediation Simulation I
W13 19 May Negotiation and Mediation Simulation II

After-action report and group presentation by 23:59 on 21 May.
Conflict Resolution, contemporary and future challenges
W14 26 May
Second essay by 23:59 by 23:59 on 28 May.
To be submitted on Canvas, which uses Turnitin to detect plagiarism.

31 May – 06 June Pre-exam study week
W15 09 June Review of the course
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Detailed Session-by-Session Course Outline
Week 1 (10 February 2021): Introduction to Conflict Resolution: The theory
Compulsory Reading:
Publications). Part 1, Chapters 1-3, pp. 1-65
Suggested Readings:
Fisher, R. J., Kelman, H. C., & Nan, S. A. (2013). Conflict Analysis and Resolution in The Oxford
Handbook of Political Psychology (2 ed.). (New York: Oxford University Press)
Ramsbotham, O., Woodhouse, T. and Miall, H. (2016). Contemporary Conflict Resolution – Fourth
Edition. (Cambridge, UK: Polity Press). Part 1, Chapters 1 and 2, pp. 3-68
Week 2 (17 February 2021): The resolution of conflicts between states
The study of interstate conflict represents the touchstone of the field of international relations. In the
last couple of decades, scholars of interstate conflict have increasingly shifted their focus from “war”
to lower levels of conflict such as “threats, displays, sanctions and etc.”. In this session, we will first
examine some recent findings on interstate conflict and then explore the problems associated with
the efforts to resolve the conflict between states.
Class organization:
16h00: presentation by Anna Penfrat (Senior Policy Officer, EPLO)
17h00: discussion about the resolution of conflicts between states
Compulsory Readings:
Hatipoglu, Emre & Palmer, Glenn. (2012). Interstate Conflict: Recent Findings and Controversies.
Terrorism and Political Violence Vol.24:4, 601-618
Publications). Part 2, Chapter 5, 91-133
Week 3 (24 February 2021): The resolution of conflicts between states and non-state
actors: Conflict resolution in civil wars, ethnic and state-formation conflicts
Since the end of World War II, revolution and other forms of war within nations has been far more
common than interstate war between nations. In the first part of this session, we will examine the
conditions that make individuals willing to participate in organized armed violence against their own
government. We will then explore the problems associated with the efforts to resolve civil wars,
including third party intervention to settle or resolve an intrastate conflict.
The other predominant form of armed conflict within nations is ethnic conflict. Ethnic identity and
ethnic conflict are especially prevalent in many regions of the Third World because the formal
boundaries of the nation-states (especially in Africa and parts of Asia) were drawn with little or no
regard for the geographic distribution of “nations” of people who shared a common language,
religion, culture and heritage. Thus, many Third World nations are characterized by multiple ethnic
groups coexisting (uneasily) as citizens of a single nation state and/or identifiable ethic groups being
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divided between two or more nation states. In the second part of this session, we will first examine
ethnic divisions that contribute to conflict in the Third World. We will then explore the problems
associated with the efforts to resolve ethnic and state-formation conflicts.
Class organization:
16h00-17h00: presentation and discussion about conflict resolution in civil wars
17h00-18h00: presentation and discussion about conflict resolution in ethnic and state-formation
conflicts.
Compulsory Reading (Civil wars):
Suggested Readings (Civil wars):
Hoeffler, A. (2012). On the Causes of Civil War in Garfinkel, M.R. and Skaperdas, S. (eds), The Oxford
Handbook of the Economics of Peace and Conflict. (NY: Oxford University Press)
Ncube, M. and Anyanwu, John C. (2012). Inequality and Arab Spring Revolutions In North Africa And
The Middle East. African Development Bank Africa Economic Brief, Vol 3, Iss.7
Compulsory Reading (Ethnic and state-formation conflicts):
Suggested Readings (Ethnic and state-formation conflicts):
Höhne, M. V. (2006). Political identity, emerging state structures and conflict in northern Somalia. The
Journal of Modern African Studies. Vol 44 (03), 397-414
Mason, T. David. (2003). Structures of Ethnic Conflict: Revolution versus Secession in Rwanda and Sri
Lanka. Terrorism and Political Violence, Vol. 15 (3), 83-114
Saideman, Stephen K. (2002). Overlooking the Obvious: Bringing International Politics Back into
Ethnic Conflict Management. International Studies Review, Vol. 4 (3), 63-86.
Week 4 (03 March 2021): Culture, Religion and Conflict: “The Clash of civilizations.”
This lecture assesses the manner in which culture, shared and diverging values and civilizations come
into conflict. The class begins with an assessment by Samuel Huntington that ‘Civilizations are
destined to clash’ and traces a line forward in time to more recent developments in the fields of
multiculturalism and interculturalism.
This class draws upon a wealth of cultural anthropological material in order to rethink the fracture
lines along which cultures are thought to (co-)exist and the conditions that give rise to conflict.
Huntington, S.P. (1993). The Clash of Civilizations?, Foreign Affairs, 72(3), pp. 22-49.
Said, E.W. (2001). The Clash of Ignorance., The Nation. Available at:
https://www.thenation.com/article/clash-ignorance/
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Ferguson, B. (2005). Tribal warfare and “ethnic” conflict. Available at:
https://www.culturalsurvival.org/publications/cultural-survival-quarterly/tribal-warfare-and-
ethnic-conflict
Suggested Readings:
Uysal, N. (2016). Peacebuilding through Interfaith Dialogue: The Role of Faith-based NGOs. In: Roy, S.
& Seaga Shaw, I. (Eds.). Communicating Differences: Culture, Media, Peace and Conflict
Negotiation. (London: Palgrave MacMillan), pp. 265-279.
Bryant, S. (2018). 7 tips for managing conflict in a multicultural environment. Available at:
https://countrynavigator.com/blog/expert-view/managing-conflict-multicultural-team/
Week 5 (10 March 2021): Preventing, containing and ending violent conflict: Peacekeeping
and Peacemaking
Class organization:
16h00: presentation by Onur Sultan (Former NATO Officer and PhD Candidate at the University of
Antwerp)
17h00-18:00: Peacekeeping and Peace-making
Compulsory Reading:
Edition. (Cambridge, UK: Polity Press). Part 1, Chapters 5, 6 and 7, pp. 144-212
Suggested Reading:
Autesserre, Séverine. (2018). The Crisis of Peacekeeping: Why the UN Can’t End Wars. Foreign Affairs
Week 6 (17 March 2021): Postwar reconstruction, peacebuilding and reconciliation
Compulsory Reading:
Edition. (Cambridge, UK: Polity Press). Part 1, Chapters 8, 9 and 10, pp. 236-310
Suggested Reading:
Forysiñski, Wojciech. (2014). The role of the European Union in conflict resolution in Africa: Towards
comprehensive, integrated and long-term commitment? Przeglad Strategiczny, No. 7
Week 7 (24 March 2021): Review session and the submission of the first essay
First essay by 23:59 on 24 March.

To be submitted on Canvas, which uses Turnitin to detect plagiarism.
Week 8 (31 March 2021): Culture and Conflict Resolution

This lecture examines culture, conflict resolution and conflict transformation from a variety of
disciplines. The lecture examines the manner in which conflict resolution can be achieved, the role
that culture plays in that process and reviews the question of whether multiculturalism might be
advanced as a possible solution to the presence of conflict. The topic of conflict resolution is
addressed from the perspective of multiple disciplines.
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Carter, C. (2010). Introduction. In: Carter, C. (Eds) Conflict resolution and peace education.
Implementation across disciplines. (New York: Palgrave MacMillan), pp. 1-6.
Wynn, R. Tamargo Wi lburn, S. & Cirecie W-O. (2010). Multiculturalism, Conflict Transformation, and
Peacebuilding: Practitioner and Client Working Together. In: Carter, C. (2010) (Eds) Conflict
resolution and peace education. Implementation across disciplines. (New York: Palgrave
MacMillan), pp. 7-32.
Roy, S. & Seaga Shaw (2016). Introduction- Communicating Differences: Towards breaking boundaries
for peace and conflict research in communication. In: Communicating Differences: Culture,
Media, Peace and Conflict Negotiation. (London: Palgrave MacMillan_, pp. 1-11.
Suggested Reading:
Kymlicka, W. (2012) Multiculturalism: Success, Failure, and the Future. (Washington, DC: Migration
Policy Institute).
Week 9 (21 April 2021): International Negotiation: The theory.
Maiese, Michelle. (2003). Negotiation. Beyond Intractability. Available online at:
https://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/negotiation/?nid=1273
Wertheim, E. Negotiations and Resolving Conflicts: An Overview. Available online at:
https://www.europarc.org/communication-skills/pdf/Negotiation%20Skills.pdf
Suggested Readings:
Zartman, William I. (1977). Negotiation as a Joint Decision-Making Process. Journal of Conflict
Resolution, Vol. 21, No. 4, 619-638
Zohar, Ilana. (2015). The art of negotiation: Leadership skills required for negotiation in time of crisis.
Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, Iss. 209, 540 – 548
Week 10 (28 April 2021): Introduction to Mediation: Theory
Hinnebusch, Raymond and Zartman, William I, et al. (2016). UN Mediation in the Syrian Crisis: From
Kofi Annan to Lakhdar Brahimi. (New York: International Peace Institute)
Vukovic, Sinisa. (2014). International Mediation as a Distinct Form of Conflict Management.
International Journal of Conflict Management, Vol. 25 No. 1, 61-80
Suggested Readings:
Bercovitch, Jacob and Su-Mi Lee. (2003). Exploring the Relevance and Effectiveness of Directive
Strategies in Mediation. International Journal of Peace Studies, 8 (1): 1-17. Available online at:
http://www.gmu.edu/programs/icar/ijps/vol8_1/Bercovitch.html
Week 11 (05 May 2021): Culture and Negotiation Behaviors

This lecture examines how culture can pose a barrier to clear communication in the domain of
negotiations. The class begins with a review of stereotypy (the relation of stereotypes to real life) and
the manner in which that can foreclose particular kinds of positive cultural encounters. Issues
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touched upon concern our viewpoints, essentialization of people groups, imaginaries, homogeneity
and universalism.
Programme On Negotiation. (2018). Cross-Cultural Communication Skills for International Business

Executives. (Document will be made available via Canvas).
LeBaron, Michelle. July (2003) Culture-Based Negotiation Styles. Beyond Intractability. Eds. Guy
Burgess and Heidi Burgess. Conflict Information Consortium, University of Colorado, Boulder.
Available at: http://www.beyondintractability.org/essay/culture-negotiation
Hooks, B. (1992). Eating the Other: Desire and resistance. In: Black Looks: Race and Representation.
(Boston: South End Press), pp. 21-39.
Week 12 and Week 13 (12 and 19 May 2021): Negotiation and Mediation Simulation I and
II
Below, you find some reading to help you prepare for sessions 12 and 13. More information on the
execution of the Negotiation and Mediation Simulation I and II will be provided during the course.
Suggested Readings:
Lundgren, Magnus. (2016). Mediation in Syria: Initiatives, strategies, and obstacles, 2011-2016.
Contemporary Security Policy.
Lundgren, Magnus, Mediation in Syria, 2016–19: A Tale of Two Processes (December 20, 2019).
Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3507785
Aga K. (2018) Peacebuilding in Syria Through Power Sharing: A Study of Possibilities. In: Salamey I.,
Abu-Nimer M., Abouaoun E. (eds) Post-Conflict Power-Sharing Agreements. (Palgrave
Macmillan)
Tabrizi, B. and Pantucci, R. (2016). Understanding Iran’s Role in the Syrian Conflict. Royal United
Services Institute Publication.
Manhoff, T. (2017). Turkey's Foreign Policy Towards Syria. Available at:
https://www.kas.de/c/document_library/get_file?uuid=aa542008-7190-09ae-4c88-
da15ce1bb376&groupId%20=%20252038
Pierini, M. (2016). In search of an EU role in the Syrian war. Carnegie Endowment for International
Peace Publication in August 2016.
Al Jazeera Centre for Studies. The Kurdish Question in the Syrian Revolution. Available at:
https://studies.aljazeera.net/ar/node/137
Askerov, A. and Tchantouridze, L. (2020). Contending Policies of Russia and Turkey: The Syrian Crisis.
Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/339416311_Contending_Policies_of_
Russia_and_Turkey_The_Syrian_Crisis
Week 14 (26 May 2021): Conflict Resolution, contemporary and future challenges
Do not forget to submit your second essay by 12:00 (noon) on 28 May. It is to be submitted on
Canvas, which uses Turnitin to detect plagiarism. We intentionally picked a deadline in Week 14 to
give you more time to meet the other deadlines in the Final Exam Week.
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This lecture interrogates the distinction between basic human needs, which are shared and universal,
and the particularistic domain of culture in conflict and conflict resolution. It argues for a context-
specific and sensitive analysis by examining the problems that are endemic to a one-size-fits-all
approach that values homogeneity over heterogeneity.
This lecture will also focus on future challenges, alternatives in conflict resolution and the possibility
and availability of reconciliation.
Pearson d’Éstée, T. P. & Parsons, R. J. (2018). The state of the art and the need for context-grounded
practice in conflict resolution. In: Pearson d’Éstée, T. P. & Parsons, R. J. (Eds.) Cultural
Encounters and Emergent Practices in Conflict Resolution Capacity-Building. (New York Springer
International Publishing; Palgrave Macmillan), pp. 1-29.
Avruch, K. & Mitchell, C. (2013). Basic Human needs in theory and practice. In: Avruch, K. & Mitchell,
C. (Eds.) Conflict Resolution and Human Needs: Linking Theory and Practice. (London:
Routledge), pp. 1-17.
Pearson d’Éstée, T. P. & Parsons, R. J. (2018). Patterns of Encounter and integration: Navigating
Culture in Conflict Resolution Capacity Building. In: Pearson d’Éstée, T. P. & Parsons, R. J. (Eds.)
Cultural Encounters and Emergent Practices in Conflict Resolution Capacity-Building. (New York
Springer International Publishing; Palgrave Macmillan), pp. 349-385
Suggested Readings:
Leiner, M. (2018). From Conflict resolution to Reconciliation. In: Leiner, M. & Schliesser, C. (Eds.)
Alternative Approaches in Conflict Resolution. (New York: Palgrave MacMillan), pp. 175-185.
Schliesser, C. (2018). The politics of Reconciliation in Post-genocide Rwanda. In: Leiner, M. &
Schliesser, C. (Eds.) Alternative Approaches in Conflict Resolution. (New York : Palgrave
MacMillan), pp. 137-146.
Week 15 (09 June 2021): Review of the Course
Review of the Course
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Course Assessment: Assignments Overview
The students will be evaluated on the basis of their performance in the following assignments:
First Essay (Week 7) 33.33%
Mediation and Negotiation Simulation (Week 12 and 13) 33.34%
Second Essay (Week 15) 33.33%
TOTAL 100%
Deadlines:
- First essay (policy paper) by 23:59 on 24 March. To be submitted on Canvas, which uses
Turnitin to detect plagiarism.
- Formation of groups for the Negotiation and Mediation Simulation by 05 April,
- Contact and agree with the instructor about the topic for the second essay by 05 May
- Negotiation and Mediation Simulation I, 12 May
- Negotiation and Mediation Simulation II, 19 May
- Submit Negotiation and Mediation Simulation Exercise after-action report and the
presentation by 23:59, 21 May.
- Second essay by 23:59 on 28 May. To be submitted on Canvas, which uses Turnitin to detect
plagiarism.
Grading Scale of Vesalius College
Vesalius College grading policy follows the American system of letter grades, which
correspond to a point scale from 0 – 100. All assignments (including exams) must be graded
on the scale of 0-100. To comply with the Flemish Educational norms, professors should on
request also provide the conversion of the grade on the Flemish scale of 0-20. The
conversion table below outlines the grade equivalents.
Letter grade Scale of 100 Scale of 20
(VeCo Grading Scale) (Flemish System)
A 85-100 17.0-20.0
A- 81-84 16.1-16.9
B+ 77-80 15.3-16.0
B 73-76 14.5-15.2
B- 69-72 13.7-14.4
C+ 66-68 13.1-13.6
C 62-65 12.3-13.0
C- 58-61 11.5-12.2
D+ 54-57 10.7-11.4
D 50-53 10.0-10.6
F 0-49 0-9.9
-15-
Description of Activities, Grading Criteria and Deadlines:
First Essay (Policy Paper) (1/3 of the grade, 33.33 %)

33.33 percent of your grade will be determined by a policy paper on the Syrian conflict. Your main
task will be to link the theory of conflict resolution to a practical, real-life situation. In class, you will
learn the theory and the instructor will explain it within the context of the Lebanese Civil War (1975 –
1990). In the policy paper, you will carry out a similar exercise within the context of the Syrian Civil
War. Please note that your readings on this conflict will also help you in the Mediation and
Negotiation simulations in Weeks 12 and 13 in which we will deal split in groups and try to negotiate
on a possible solution to transcend incompatibilities in Syria.
Your policy paper will include:
• A problem statement that incorporates the research that you have conducted;
• KEY SECTION I:
An analysis of the critical elements and dimensions of the policy problem: In this part, you
are required to explain the origin and the development of the conflict using a theory of
your choice. We will cover some of the key theories in class including the Conflict Dynamics
theory (Galtung’s Conflict Triangle), the Basic Needs theory and the theory of Rational
Calculation. You may opt for one or a combination of these theories or use alternatives based
on your literature review.
• KEY SECTION II:
A presentation of your policy options and a comparison of the available alternatives based on
the criteria selected: In this part, you are required to link your policy alternatives to the
seven methods of transcending a conflict. We will cover these methods during the course
(shifting priorities, division, horse-trading, sharing control, leaving control to an external
actor, using conflict resolution mechanisms, leaving to oblivion).
To be more specific, you will come up with three policy options in order to re-establish a
functioning state structure in Syria. Autonomy, federalism, independence with or without
integration, democratic state formation and similar solutions may be included in your
proposals. This is of course not an exhaustive list and you may propose other alternatives
based on your literature research.
• A policy recommendation on how the issue that you are addressing should be resolved: You
must explain why you think your policy recommendation, and not some alternative, is the
preferred solution to the problem. This implies that you must discuss the alternative policy
recommendations explicitly, including their strengths and weaknesses.
Your essay is due by 23:59 on 24 March on Canvas, which uses Turnitin. When submitting to Canvas,
use an informative file name, including your surname and the issue covered (for example
“Smith_Syria Conflict”). Make sure you submit your paper in Word format (NO PDF). NOTE: Late
submission reduces the score 10 percentage points per day. The essay should be submitted in Times
New Roman font, 12 points type, 1.5 spaced. It should be between 2,000 and 2,500 words,
INCLUDING every part of the paper (e.g., the cover page, footnotes, and the bibliography). Papers
that deviate from the word range will be penalized.
Grading Form for the first essay (policy paper) (33.33%)
Your policy paper will be graded according to:

1) how clearly and thoroughly you define and analyse the policy problem;
2) the extent and clarity of your factual understanding of the issue, its causes, and its context,
incorporating material from the scholarly articles;
3) how well you state and defend your assessment of what the policy options are to resolve this
issue and why your proposal is preferable to the alternatives (see below for more details).
-16-
Fail Pass Good Excellent
Introduction The problem The introduction gives Good ability to identify a Clear and concise
Problem statement is irrelevant sufficient information on problem statement. Some problem statement /
Statement / or not well identified; the problem statement, redundancies. The outline Succinct outline of the
(10) the topic is not the topic and the outline. is overall good and structure and the main
adequately A combination of flaws background information is argument of the policy
contextualized; the hinders the author’s relevant. paper.
outline is absent or intention and objectives.
flawed.
GRADING SCALE: 5-6 GRADING SCALE: 7-8
An analysis of Poor grasp and Not all information Overall, the literature Clear identification and
the critical explanation of the provided is relevant to review is well conceived. explanation of the factual
elements and policy issue, its causes, the analysis of the Some minor imprecision in understanding of the
dimensions of and its context. problem statement. The the selection of the issue, its causes, and its
the policy Inadequate review of literature review shows literature; Some flaws in context; excellent
problem (25) the literature. basic critical explaining the issue, its engagement with the
engagement. causes, and its context; references and the course
fairly good critical abilities. material on the theory
and practice of conflict
resolution.
A presentation The paper lacks The paper offers Good critical analysis of Excellent analysis of the
of policy distinguishable policy distinguishable policy the proposed policy proposed policy
options and a options; the selection options; Policy options alternatives. Minor flaws in alternatives. Excellent
comparison of of policy options is are explained with some the selection and the use of selection and use of
the available superficial; No clear flaws; Some criteria are the criteria to distinguish different criteria to
alternatives evaluation of the policy selected and used to between the proposed compare the policy
based on options. No clear compare the proposed policy options. options.
selected criteria selected or policy alternatives.
criteria; (35) used.
GRADING SCALE: 0-17 GRADING SCALE: 18-24 GRADING SCALE: 25-29 GRADING SCALE: 30-35
Conclusion (10) The conclusions The conclusion explains The conclusion clearly The conclusion perfectly
mainly repeat previous why one proposal is explains why one proposal explains why one
sections; no critical preferable to the is preferable to the proposal is preferable to
evaluation or reflection alternatives but lacks alternatives; it offers some the alternatives; it offers
on main findings; not offering any policy policy implications to the substantial and well-
clear in explaining why implications to the theory and practice of grounded policy
one proposal is theory and practice of conflict resolution. implications to the theory
preferable to the conflict resolution. and practice of conflict
alternatives. resolution.
Structure (10) Loose structure; failure Some flaws in the Overall, the paper is well- Coherent and logical
to provide most structure of the paper; structured. Some minor structure; clear argument
relevant information. not all information is flaws in the organization and the linkage between
Serious mismatch relevant; some flaws in hinder the strength of the different parts of the
between the problem the transition between argument. paper make it a smooth
statement, policy separate parts of the read.
alternatives, the policy paper.
evaluation of the
alternatives and the
conclusion.
Formal Aspects Incorrect Some flaws in the Overall correct use of Correct use of language
(10) expression/referencin expression and the language and referencing and referencing system;
g system; Insufficient referencing systems; system; adequate number Appropriate Number of
readings (less than 5) Sufficient number of of sources (5-9 Sources (10 or more
sources (at least 5). references). references)
Total
( /100 points)
-17-
Mediation and Negotiation Simulation (33.34%)
In Weeks 9, 10 and 11, we will study the theory as well as the practical implementation of negotiation
and mediation in international politics. Sessions 12 and 13 are devoted to the simulation exercise in
which the students will apply the theoretical concepts studied to a concrete policy issue. Broadly
speaking, the topic we will cover is the same as the first essay, the “Syrian Civil War”.
Since the Turkish-Russian agreement in March 2020, the violence in Syria has dropped significantly.
Conflicting sides continue shelling and attacking enemy positions in an attempt to maintain the
achieved gains and prevent any territorial loss. We will simulate a situation when there is a strong
willingness from the international community to resolve the Syrian conflict and prepare for a political
transition.
To execute the simulation, in Weeks 12 and 13, the students will be divided in four groups,
negotiating three different positions (Groups 1, 2 and 3) under the mediation of Group 4.
- Group 1 will represent Russia (a key supporter of the Syrian regime). The position of Russia can
be summarized with the following arguments: maintaining the territorial integrity of Syria,
requesting the withdrawal of armed forces which lack an invitation from the Syrian government
and demanding the disarmament of the armed opposition groups.
- Group 2 will represent Turkey (a key supporter of the Syrian opposition). The position of Turkey
can be summarized with the following arguments: demanding a political change, requesting the
establishment of safe zones in Northern Syria and the elimination of PYD which has links to PKK
(PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, US and the EU)
- Group 3 will represent USA (a key supporter of the Syrian Kurds in North-Eastern Syria). The
position of the US can be summarized with the following argument: demanding the
establishment of an autonomous entity in north-eastern Syria.
- Group 4 will play the role of the UN and act as a mediator using the tactics of mediation that we
will cover in class. It will try to propose a roadmap and try to get an endorsement from the
negotiating sides.
GROUPS 1, 2 AND 3: Please read through the literature and come prepared to defend and negotiate
your position. The key points of your position are expressed above but you may enlarge the list
based on your readings. Moreover, you can make amendments to your demands/policies
depending on how negotiations proceed. Use the bargaining tactics that we will cover in the course.
Remember, negotiation is about finding a common formula to shared problems. Do not consider it
matter of winning or losing. Do not get stuck in fixed positions and avoid blocking improvement in the
process. Instead, focus on the larger interests and seek compromise to come up with a formula that
will work for all sides.
GROUP 4: Please read through the literature and come prepared to play the role of the mediator.
Use the mediation cycle properly. You may opt for one or a combination of mediation approaches
(facilitative, formulative, directive or manipulative).
The instructor will be the Chair during the simulation exercise and will only intervene when the
discussion gets stuck on a particular issue. In week 12, we will first start with a 5 to 10 minutes
presentation from the groups in which they explain their overall position regarding the future of
Syria. The presentations will highlight the expectations from the negotiations that we will hold in
Weeks 12 and 13. We will then continue with the mediation and negotiation exercise in which each
group will negotiate or mediate their position. At the end of the exercises, after Week 13, the groups
will also draft an after-action report (maximum one-page) in which they will explain “WHAT
HAPPENED: What went well? What went wrong? and LESSONS LEARNED FOR THE FUTURE
NEGOTIATIONS OR MEDIATIONS.”
-18-
You are obliged to submit your after-action reports and the presentations by 23:59, 21 May on
Canvas. When submitting to Canvas, use an informative file name, including your surname or group
number (for example “Group1_Presentation 1, Group 2_Presentation Week 12, or Group 2_Post-
Simulation Report”). Make sure that you submit your reports in Word and presentations in
Powerpoint format (NO PDF). Your after-action reports should be submitted in Times New Roman
font, 12 points type, 1.5 spaced. It should be between 500 and 1,000 words (ideally 1 full page).
Your presentations should include maximum 7 slides including the introduction and the conclusion
slides. You are not required to indicate your references in your post-simulation reports and
presentations. These are aimed at preparing you for the negotiations (presentations) and identifying
the key lessons learned after the execution of the negotiations (after-action reports).
NOTE: This is a group assignment and all group members will receive the same grade (Nothing
individual). Therefore, all group members are expected to contribute to best of their abilities. I
expect active participation from all group members, and I will question each individual about their
grasp of the content. Late submission reduces the score 10 percentage points per day (if you are
late by 1 minute, your maximum point becomes 90%. It becomes 80% between 24 hours and 48
hours late, and so on). To avoid problems with the computer or the Canvas website, you are
strongly encouraged to submit the paper a few days before the deadline. More information on the
execution of the Negotiation and Mediation Simulation will be provided during the course.
Your performance will be assessed through the following criteria:
• Presentation skills (25%): A group presentation of maximum 7 slides in which you will explain
your group’s position and key arguments. This will take place in the beginning of Week 12.
• Introducing strong arguments and persuasive examples (20%): During the exercise in Weeks
12 and 13.
• Leading discussion (15%): This depends on your level of knowledge and how well you are
prepared.
• Engagement with the audience (15%): During the exercise in Weeks 12 and 13.
• After-action reports (25%): After we finish the simulation in Week 13, you will submit this
group report (one-pager) before 21 May. Please also submit your presentation before the
deadline on 21 May.
ASSESSMENT TABLE FOR THE NEGOTIATION AND MEDIATION SIMULATION
Descriptor Excellent Satisfactory Unsatisfactory
Presentation Very well structured; focused and Well-structured, mostly Disorganized and unclear
skills clear presentation focused presentation. presentation.
(25 points) Good use of visual aids (where Visual aid is not or very
provided) clearly organized.
GRADING SCALE:21-25 GRADING SCALE: 13-20 GRADING SCALE: 0-12

Introducing Very well prepared by extensive Well prepared by Poorly prepared by
strong knowledge of the policy that was sufficient knowledge of insufficient knowledge of
arguments and adopted. the policy that was the policy that was adopted.
persuasive Effective presentation of adopted. Inability to present
examples arguments by using persuasive Presentation of arguments by using
(20 points) examples. arguments by using examples and by
Very good knowledge of the most examples and by highlighting the policy
advantageous alternative and the highlighting the policy positions.
BATNA (the best alternative to a positions. Poor knowledge of the most
negotiated agreement) Good knowledge of the advantageous alternative
most advantageous and the BATNA (the best
alternative and the alternative to a negotiated
BATNA. agreement)
GRADING SCALE: 17-20 GRADING SCALE: 10-16 GRADING SCALE: 0-9
-19-
Leading Very good leading questions; Overall engaging leading Uncertainty and discomfort
discussion shows authority and easiness in questions; confidence in in leading debates; the
(15 points) steering debates steering debates leading questions fail to
intercept the audience’s
interest.
GRADING SCALE: 13-15 GRADING SCALE: 8-12 GRADING SCALE: 0-7
Engagement Relevant follow-up questions; Overall a good ability to Inability to steer the debates
with the ability to steer the debates and to steer discussions and to and to engage with the
audience keep the audience engaged. invoke some audience.
(15 points) discussions.
Post-simulation The reports identify what The reports aptly The reports are not well-
(after-action) happened during the simulations summarize what structured. Scant reflection
report in a succinct and clear manner. happened during the on what went well or bad
(25 points) They offer an excellent platform simulation. They offer a during the simulations.
for discussing the lessons learned. good platform for They offer a poor platform
discussing the lessons for discussing the lessons
learned. learned.

Total
( /100 points)
Second Essay (33.33%)

You will write an essay that explores the role played by culture (and/or religion) in resolving
international conflicts. You will either select the Syrian Civil war or another (historical or
contemporary conflict) and will first briefly analyse how cultural differences have had an impact on
instigating the conflict between the sides. Then, you will assess and criticize the way in which
conflict resolution practices had considered or neglected the cultural dimension.
Please communicate with the instructor about your topic and get approval before starting to work on
your paper. This should be done via email by Week 11 at the latest (05 May). Your essay is due by
23:59 on 28 May on Canvas, which uses Turnitin. When submitting to Canvas, use an informative file
name, including your surname and the issue covered (for example “Smith_Somaliland”). Make sure
you submit your paper in Word format (NO PDF). NOTE: Late submission will reduce your score 10
percentage points per day. The essay should be submitted in Times New Roman font, 12 points type,
1.5 spaced. It should be between 2,000 and 2,500 words, INCLUDING every part of the paper (e.g.,
the cover page, footnotes, and the bibliography). Papers that deviate from the word count will be
penalized.
Papers should be structured in 4 sections, distinguishable by clear headings and subtitles (see the
table below for more detail). Make sure that each section is coherent, and that the argument draws
on and follows the subtitle you have chosen. The paper should be structured as follows:
Section Description and checklist

Introduction
This section clearly identifies the research topic and case study you have
selected. It identifies a clear research question and outlines the structure
of the research.
Checklist: Introduce key factual information to understand your case
study; Highlight the most problematic/worth-exploring aspects of your
selected topic; Outline the structure of the paper and your main
argument briefly.
-20-
Section Description and checklist
Part two – An This part offers an analysis of how cultural differences have had an
analysis of how impact on instigating the conflict between the sides.
cultural differences Checklist: Identify a relevant historical or contemporary conflict; Sum up
had an impact on a brief history of the conflict with an emphasis on key objectives of the
instigating the conflicting sides; Explain how, and to what extent, culture has had an
conflict between the impact on causing violent conflict; Draw on facts and explanatory
sides. examples; use and synthesize sources and references to support your key
arguments and address the research question.
Part three – analysis The third part assesses and criticizes the way conflict resolution practices
/ assessment of the have either considered or neglected the cultural dimension of conflict.
way conflict Checklist: Explain if and how the conflicting sides developed mechanisms
resolution practices to settle or resolve their conflict; Sum up the regional or international
had considered or efforts to resolve the conflict and criticize the timing and methodology
neglected the adopted by the external actors; Explain how and to what extent the
cultural dimension cultural dimension was considered in resolving the conflict; Highlight the
good and practices in terms of the way the cultural dimension was
respected; Draw upon facts, examples and data to analyse your topic.
Conclusion The last part presents the main concluding remarks.
Checklist: Summarize your key findings; Critically assess your analysis and
identify its limits. Do your findings offer policy implications? What needs
to be done, based on your findings?
System of bibliographic referencing

Please use APA, MLA, Chicago, or Harvard style for your referencing.
For general guidance on “Acknowledging, Paraphrasing, and Quoting Sources”, please consult this
overview developed by the writing center at University of Wisconsin-Madison and available at:
http://writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/Acknowledging_Sources.pdf.
Please, also consult the following short guide for “Acknowledging, Paraphrasing, and Quoting
Sources”, available at: writing.wisc.edu/Handbook/Acknowledging_Sources.pdf
For direct quotes, page number, when available, should be cited in the text of your work.
Harvard style of referencing - Examples:
In-text citation:
Both unities of discourses and objects are formed “by means of a group-controlled decision”
(Foucault, 2011:32).
Habermas acknowledges the crucial function of language as a “medium of domination and social
force” (1974:17, in Forchtner, 2011:9).
In your reference list:
How to quote books:
Held, D. (1980). Introduction to Critical Theory: Horkheimer to Habermas. Berkley: University of
California Press.
How to quote chapters in edited books:
Wæver, O. (1995), ‘Securitization and Desecuritization’, in Ronnie, D. L. (ed.) On Security, New York:
Columbia University Press, pp. 46-86.
-21-
How to quote articles:
Foucault, M. (1982), ‘The Subject and Power’. Critical Inquiry, 8(4): 777-795.
How to quote electronic sources:
Thatcher M (1992), Europe’s Political Architecture, Speech in the Hague delivered on the 15 th May
1992, available at the Margaret Thatcher Foundation:
http://www.margaretthatcher.org/speeches/displaydocument.asp?docid=108296, retrieved on
8 June, 2012.
Grading Form for the second essay (30%)

The following criteria will be applied in assessing your written work:
• Selection of a clearly focused topic,
• A logical, well-structured and well-organized analysis;
• Ability to summarize the role of culture in triggering a conflict;
• Critical understanding of how cultural aspects are considered or neglected in resolving a
conflict.
See below for more details.
Fail Pass Good Excellent

Introduction The research question The introduction Good ability to identify a Clear and concise
Research is irrelevant or not well gives sufficient research question and to research question /
Question / identified; the topic is information on the pose a relevant research Succinct outline of
Statement / not adequately research question, question. Some structure of the paper
(15) contextualized; the the topic and the redundancies. The outline is and main argument.
outline is absent or outline. A overall good and background
flawed. combination of flaws information is relevant.
hinders the author’s
argument.
Reviewing, The role of culture is Sufficient Overall, the literature review Clear identification of
understanding vaguely or simply engagement with the is well conceived. Some academic arguments
and mentioned. Inadequate references and the minor imprecision in the and debates; Good
summarizing review of the literature. course material on selection of the literature; ability to compare
the role of Weak engagement with the topic of culture Some flaws in explaining the and contrast key
culture in the references and the and conflict role of culture in causing arguments; good
instigating a course material on the resolution; not all conflict between the sides; justification and
historical or a topic of culture and information provided fairly good critical abilities. critical assessment of
contemporary conflict resolution. is relevant to the theoretical
conflict Severe conceptual analysis or the frameworks.
(20) oversimplification. research question.
The literature review
shows basic critical
engagement.
Analysis / The analysis shows Sufficient ability to Good critical analysis Excellent use of
Discussion major pitfalls; the review relevant facts supported by good evidence and
(35) analysis is superficial; for the analysis. Core information and data; some references; Clear
No clear explanation of statements are not flaws in the use of data and explanation of how
Explanation of the efforts applied to always supported by reference in support of one’s and to what extent
how and to resolve the conflict; reference or argument; Minor flaws in the the culture
what extent Weak explanation of evidence; not all argumentative line and the dimension was
the ‘culture’ how and to what extent information is criticism towards the considered in
dimension was the culture dimension relevant. Basic methods applied to resolve resolving the conflict;
considered in was considered in critical engagement. the conflict by paying Critical evaluation of
resolving the resolving the conflict. attention to the cultural core assumptions of
conflict aspects. other authors.
-22-
Conclusion The conclusions mainly The conclusions The conclusions show a good Succinct summary of
(10) repeat previous show some attempts ability to engage critically key findings; Critical
sections; no critical to critically review with the topic and assess the and open-minded
evaluation or reflection the main findings main findings. evaluation of core
on main findings arguments and
results. Offers policy
implications.
Structure (10) Loose structure; failure Some flaws in the Overall, the paper is well- Coherent and logical
to provide most structure of the structured. Some minor flaws structure; clear
relevant information. paper; not all in the organization hinder argument, linking the
Serious mismatch information is the strength of the argument. second and third
between the second relevant; mismatch parts of the paper.
and third parts of the between different
essay. parts of the essay.
Formal Incorrect Some flaws in the Overall correct use of Correct use of
Aspects (10) expression/referencing expression and the language and referencing language and
system; Insufficient referencing systems; system; adequate number of referencing system;
readings (less than 5) Sufficient number of sources (5-9 references). Appropriate Number
sources (at least 5). of Sources (10 or
more references)
TOTAL (100)
SOURCES TO USE FOR THE FIRST AND SECOND ESSAYS:

For the essays, you are highly recommended to refer to scholarly journals. A partial list would include:
Peace and Change, Journal of Peace Research, World Politics, Comparative Politics,
Comparative Political Studies, Current History, International Studies Quarterly, Journal of
Conflict Resolution, International Security, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, Political Science
Quarterly or any number of other journals.
Book reviews and news magazines, (such as Guardian, Newsweek, Le Monde, the Economist) do not
count as scholarly journals. The same holds for encyclopaedias (including Wikipedia) or websites,
blogs or other similar sources. However, these are acceptable for adding factual information. Keep in
mind that, scholarly journals will allow you to develop a more rigorous analytical understanding of
the issue. The idea is to demonstrate that your understanding and analysis of the issue surpasses that
of the average citizen in both depth and rigor. You will be graded on how clearly you state your topic
and how thoroughly you have mastered the nuances of the issue by reading the articles in your
bibliography.
Vesalius College Attendance Policy
As the College is committed to providing students with high-quality classes and ample opportunity for
teacher-student interaction, it is imperative that students regularly attend class. As such, Vesalius
College has a strict attendance policy.
Participation in class meetings is mandatory, except in case of a medical emergency (e.g. sickness).
Students will need to provide evidence for missing class (doctor’s note). If evidence is provided, the
missed class is considered as an excused class. If no evidence is provided immediately before or after
the class, the missed class is counted as an absence.
-23-
Participation implies that students are on time: as a general rule, the College advises that students
should be punctual in this regard, but it is up to the professor to decide whether to count late arrivals
as absences, or not. If a student misses two classes in a row, his/her advisor will be notified.
Additional Course Policies
Late paper policy
The College considers late submissions as disruptive and disrespectful practices and strongly
recommends students to work on their time management. Late papers will be assessed as follow:
• Late submission reduces the score 10 percentage points per day (if you are late by 1 second,
your maximum point becomes 90%, until 24 hours after the deadline. The maximum point
becomes 80% between 24 hours and 48 hours after the deadline, and so on).
• Students are strongly encouraged to submit papers at least an hour before the deadline.
Problems with internet, printer, etc. will not excuse late submission.
In the event of exceptional circumstances which impede the delivery of assignments, a student may
request an extension without penalty prior to the assigned due date. Students must accompany this
request with a medical certificate or other proof of the extreme circumstance that impeded the
fulfilment of the task. In this case, the student should still submit the draft she/he has produced so
far.
Professors will examine the request and decide whether or not an extreme circumstance exists or
does not exist. ‘Extreme circumstances’ must be significant, unpredictable and serious. These include
medical treatment or distress for a family crisis or loss. These do not include time management and
technical problems, inability to find sources, attending a wedding.
Academic Honesty Statement
Academic dishonesty is NOT tolerated in this course.

Academic honesty is not only an ethical issue but also the foundation of scholarship. Cheating and
plagiarism (including self-plagiarism) are therefore serious breaches of academic integrity.
Following the College policy, cheating and plagiarism cases will be communicated in writing to the
Associate Dean and submitted to the Student Conduct Committee for disciplinary action.
If you refer to someone else’s work, appropriate references and citations must be provided.
Grammar, spelling and punctuation count, so use the tools necessary to correct before handing in
assignments.
Please consult the Section “Avoiding Plagiarism” in the College Catalogue for further guidance.
Turnitin
All written assignments that graded and count for more than 10% towards the final course grade
need to be submitted via the anti-plagiarism software Turnitin. You will receive from your professor a
unique password and access code for your Class.
-24-

MA in Global Peace, Security and Strategic Studies Course Syllabus POL422M Mediation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in Theory and Practice

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MA in Global Peace, Security and Strategic Studies Course Syllabus POL422M Mediation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in Theory and Practice

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MA in Global Peace, Security and Strategic Studies

POL422M Mediation, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in

Theory and Practice

Number of ECTS credits: 6

Contact Details for Professor

Syllabus Section Page

Course Learning Objectives (CLO)

Programme Learning Objectives Course Learning objectives Methods used to Teach

• Mediation and Negotiation

Recommended References books:

Ramsbotham, O., Woodhouse, T. and Miall, H. (2016). Contemporary Conflict Resolution –

Work Load Calculation for this Course:

Time spent in class: 2 hours per week / 28 hours per semester

Course Schedule (Overview)

W Date Title of the session and major deadlines (where applicable)

W1 10 Introduction to the Course and Overview of Course and Requirements

W2 17 The resolution of conflicts between states

W4 03 Culture and Conflict: The role of culture in instigating conflict

W6 17 Post-war reconstruction, peacebuilding, and reconciliation

W7 24 First essay by 23:59 on 24 March.

W8 31 Culture, Religion and Conflict Resolution: How does culture play

W9 21 April International Negotiation: The theory.

W10 28 April Introduction to Mediation: The theory

W12 12 May Negotiation and Mediation Simulation I

W13 19 May Negotiation and Mediation Simulation II

To be submitted on Canvas, which uses Turnitin to detect plagiarism.

W15 09 June Review of the course

Week 1 (10 February 2021): Introduction to Conflict Resolution: The theory

Week 2 (17 February 2021): The resolution of conflicts between states

Compulsory Reading (Civil wars):

Suggested Readings (Civil wars):

Compulsory Reading (Ethnic and state-formation conflicts):

Suggested Readings (Ethnic and state-formation conflicts):

Week 6 (17 March 2021): Postwar reconstruction, peacebuilding and reconciliation

First essay by 23:59 on 24 March.

Week 8 (31 March 2021): Culture and Conflict Resolution

Week 9 (21 April 2021): International Negotiation: The theory.

Week 10 (28 April 2021): Introduction to Mediation: Theory

Week 11 (05 May 2021): Culture and Negotiation Behaviors

Programme On Negotiation. (2018). Cross-Cultural Communication Skills for International Business

Week 15 (09 June 2021): Review of the Course

Review of the Course

First Essay (Policy Paper) (1/3 of the grade, 33.33 %)

Grading Form for the first essay (policy paper) (33.33%)

Your policy paper will be graded according to:

GRADING SCALE:21-25 GRADING SCALE: 13-20 GRADING SCALE: 0-12

GRADING SCALE: 17-20 GRADING SCALE: 10-16 GRADING SCALE: 0-9

GRADING SCALE:21-25 GRADING SCALE: 13-20 GRADING SCALE: 0-12

Second Essay (33.33%)

Section Description and checklist

System of bibliographic referencing

Grading Form for the second essay (30%)

Fail Pass Good Excellent

SOURCES TO USE FOR THE FIRST AND SECOND ESSAYS:

Vesalius College Attendance Policy

Additional Course Policies

Late paper policy

Academic Honesty Statement

Academic dishonesty is NOT tolerated in this course.

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