Global Conflict and Human Security (GCHS)

GCHS 710 - Conflict & Human Security

Credits: 4

Examines patterns and trends of armed conflict, especially terrorism, insurgency and civil war in the 21st century. Reviews conditions that are likely to lead to war and the myriad ways conflict affects the economy, political system, and cultural norms of a society. Explores how civil wars end, key elements of effective peace processes, and the conditions under which mass violence is likely to resume. Examines conflict prevention strategies such as: preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE), disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) of combatants, and reform of police and military forces (security sector reform/SSR). Case studies on countries in Asia, Middle East, Africa and Latin America.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

GCHS 720 - Global Governance

Credits: 4

An introduction to the concepts and theories of global governance. Examines the role governments, non-governmental organizations, institutions, civil society, and other actors play in the development and implementation of international law and policies. Focuses on the global institutional infrastructure for foreign aid, humanitarian relief, development programs, peacebuilding, and human rights advocacy. Explores how multilateral organizations, non-governmental organizations and other actors promote human security and sustainable development in countries with weak governments.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

GCHS 730 - International Development & Human Security

Credits: 4

Introduces international development policy and practice. Explores the interrelatedness of the United Nations' distinct human security domains (economic, food, health, environmental, personal, community, and political security), and reviews their connections to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., zero hunger, peace, justice and strong institutions). Examines the strategies used by humanitarian and development organizations to enhance people's well‐being in fragile states and conflict zones. Topics include: ethics of humanitarianism; how to create effective programs to alleviate poverty, tackle corruption and empower women and girls. Case studies on countries in Asia, Middle East, Africa and Latin America.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading

GCHS 740 - Environmental Security, Climate Change and Conflict

Credits: 4

Explores different dimensions of human security with a focus on environmental security. Explores how environmental challenges (population demographics, food and water insecurity, energy insecurity, etc.) may give rise to socio-political instability around the world. Examines solutions to these problems, using comparisons between more and less developed nations.

Grade Mode: Letter Grading