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Conflict and Cooperation in International Politics

Vak
2025-2026

Admission requirements

Core course for the master’s international Politics; only students of this master program can follow this course.

Description

The primary goal of this seminar is to develop the capacity to evaluate existing theories on contemporary armed conflict (inter and intrastate wars) and international cooperation. The course will be divided into two parts: (1) covering the topic of conflict and (2) covering the topic of cooperation. In the conflict part, we will discuss several issues dealing with the definitional problems of conflict, how we can explain its occurrence, and how we can stabilize peace. In the cooperation part of the course, we will tackle questions like: how do the general international theories approach the topic of cooperation? How do they cooperate on issues like human rights? Why do some states cooperate with environmental issues while others do not? What is the role of international institutions in promoting cooperation among states? How is trade influenced by regional powers? All these questions will be addressed and discussed using theories and empirical applications presented in the articles

Course objectives

  • The students will demonstrate knowledge of the theories associated with conflict and cooperation.

  • The students will demonstrate an understanding of theories and methods of inquiry that lead to knowledge in the field of conflict and cooperation in international politics.

  • The students will demonstrate an ability to identify and use appropriate information resources to substantiate evidence-based claims.

  • The students will demonstrate knowledge of how the study of conflict and cooperation influences society

Mode of instruction

Seminar format with active discussions of the readings, complemented with short introduction by the lecturer. Attendance is compulsory

Assessment method

  • Research Outline (40%)

  • Presentation (20%)

  • In-class Exam (40%)

Registration

See 'General Information
NB: There are 3 groups; please choose enrollment for only 1 group.

Timetable

See 'MyTimetable