Sites of Conflict and Forms

of Violence in International
Relations.
 Agenda

1 2 3 4 5
International Transformation International Understanding Conclusion
Relations and of Global Violence and the obstacles
Conflicts Geopolitics it's impact to cooperation

2 Presentation title 20XX

• International Relations Conflicts and Violence

Conflict is a common issue in the world, and resolving it and promoting cooperation has become
a major topic in world politics. Mainstream International Relation theories, such as Realism and
Liberal Institutionalism, argue that conflict is the state of nature of international life. Liberal
institutionalism is optimistic about conflict resolution through international institutions. They
believe that conflict comes from difference, as differences between individuals, groups, or
nation-sates cause conflicts. This logic of reasoning is reflected in many international thoughts
and is a key assumption in understanding the nature of conflict. International relations conflicts
can stem from territorial disputes, resource competition, environmental degradation, and
maritime conflicts.
• Transformation of Global Geopolitics

Global geopolitics is currently facing the highest number of military conflicts since the Cold
War, with two major conflicts dominating the landscape: the ongoing war in Ukraine and the
Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East. While an end to these conflicts seems distant, there are
signs of potential diplomatic negotiations and the first ceasefire talks in 2024. Growing
international pressure, notably from Arab countries with support from China and Russia,
advocates for a two-state solution in the Middle East. Russia's ambition for complete subjugation
in Ukraine threatens European stability, and a reduction in military aid and financial support for
Kyiv may lead to further territorial expansion by Moscow. The humanitarian situation in the
Gaza Strip may not alleviate the dire humanitarian situation, leaving Palestinians with the task of
rebuilding. The Global System must adopt a balanced approach in international relations to avoid
fractured societies, polarized geopolitics, and fragmented economic and trade ties.
• International Violence and Its Impact

International violence is more prevalent today than ever, with over forty wars involving over
forty nations. Since the end of World War II, the toll of human life from such conflicts has
reached tens of millions, with more injury and property destruction. Small-scale acts of terror,
while less severe, have a substantial psychological impact. The threat of nuclear warfare is more
significant than the current violence, affecting contemporary life. The great powers of the world
engage in a long-lasting and often bitter confrontation, often involving lesser conflicts. This
tension feeds into larger conflicts, often involving advanced weaponry and pushing the scope of
conflict beyond its natural limit. However, discrete violence, involving small groups of political
extremists, displaced individuals, or revolutionaries, often lacks the resources to match the
violence of nations.
Discrete violence, often labelled 'terrorism', involves acts of bombing, kidnapping, hijacking,
assassination, and sabotage using small numbers and light armament. It is employed by various
political groups, including the CIA, KGB, Libya, Syria, and other nations of the Middle East.
Discrete violence is available to small groups in a way that mass violence instruments possess by
nations are not. Its roots are found in antiquity and have been a common feature of guerrilla war
in modern times. Recent changes have made discrete violence a center of attention in the West.
• Understanding the Obstacles to Cooperation

The world is filled with wars and conflicts, with major conflicts like World Wars, Cold War
escalation, and the Afghan and Iraq War. Despite the need for peace, the world is filled with fear
and security threats. Since the First World War, many theorists and political scientists have tried
to create a peaceful international environment, but with no real achievement.

The debate between realist and liberal theories of international relations highlights several
obstacles to cooperation. Realists argue that natural human aggression and relative gains make
cooperation difficult, while liberalists believe that the lack of international institutions,
disarmament, and democratic states hinder cooperation. Liberalists believe that cooperation has
evolved and states trust each other, as seen in the nuclear disarmament agreement between Russia
and the US. Realists argue that the nature of world politics has not changed, and that security
should focus on people rather than the state.
The Third World and underdeveloped states' security differs from European states, as they focus
on food, health, and economic security.

Conflict resolution can be approached through two models: addressing conflict caused by
difference and encouraging complementary differences. The former involves eliminating the
difference that caused the conflict, while the latter encourages both sides to change and move
towards each other through mediation. However, reality is more complex, and replacing one
model with the other is unrealistic. Intercultural dialogue and appreciation of different ways may
provide more sustainable conflict resolution. This conference is highly valuable, meaningful, and
inspiring in understanding and addressing conflict.
• Conclusion

Conflict is a global issue, with theories like Realism and Liberal Institutionalism arguing that it is
the nature of international life. Liberal institutionalism, on the other hand, believes conflict arises
from differences between individuals, groups, or nations. Conflicts can stem from territorial
disputes, resource competition, environmental degradation, and maritime conflicts. The world is
filled with wars and conflicts, with over forty wars involving over forty nations. The debate
between realist and liberal theories highlights obstacles to cooperation, such as natural human
aggression and relative gains, and the lack of international institutions, disarmament, and
democratic states. Realists argue that security should focus on people rather than the state, while
liberalists believe cooperation has evolved and states trust each other. Conflict resolution can be
approached through two models: addressing conflict caused by difference and encouraging
complementary differences.
Thank You
Drishti Kharb
BA HONOURS(ENGLISH)
502

Sanjana Ojha
BA HONOURS(ENGLISH)
511