210053 LK BAK8: International Politics (2022S)

Focus topic: Conflicts in Divided Societies and International Peacebuilding in Times of Multiple Crises

This reading course (LK) aims to introduce and elaborate theoretical, conceptual, terminological and methodological basics of the subject International Politics. In particular, the course serves to deepen, elaborate and discuss topics and texts dealt with in the lecture International Politics. The course offers students the opportunity to acquire knowledge about the theories, concepts, terms and methods of the subject International Politics and to deepen it through discussion and application. The summaries and short presentations of the texts as well as the general workshop character of this reading course serve this purpose. Methodologically, various interactive methods are used including group and plenary discussions. In particular, the practical relevance will be achieved through own research on current political events as well as through the visit of thematically relevant scientific events.

In addition to in-depth elaboration of the contents of the lecture, the thematic focus will be on examining the role and contribution of international as well as national actors to the transformation of intra-state conflicts and peacebuilding in post-conflict societies - this especially against the background of the current multiple crises (COVID-19, climate, democracy, migration, global economy,...). To this end, basic concepts, concepts and theories of conflict and peace research will be introduced and discussed by means of concrete examples. Building on this, we will turn to the study of approaches, strategies and initiatives of international actors in their efforts to constructively deal with violent conflicts. Particular attention will be paid to the implementation of peace agreements and to approaches, methods and strategies of peace-building and conflict transformation. By means of selected case studies (Northern Ireland, Western Balkans et al...) the complex interaction of different actors and the multidimensional effects of peace processes in the context of current political developments will be analysed. It is planned to invite experts from science and practice for case discussions, providing insights into current developments and issues.