Negotiation and conflict resolution are central features of the study and practice of diplomacy. This course explores the causes of conflict (and peace) and examines various mechanisms that are employed by the international community in an attempt to address interstate and intrastate conflict. It also provides students with an opportunity to study the theory and practice of the essential diplomatic art of negotiation. This course introduces and examines the international framework for negotiation and conflict resolution. It surveys the causes and character of conflict and explores a wide range of mechanisms for inter-state and intra-state conflict resolution. Three broad and topical concepts of diplomacy - 'preventive diplomacy', 'coercive diplomacy' and 'peacebuilding diplomacy' - are used to demarcate different phases and types of conflict management. In our consideration of preventive diplomacy we examine the preventive measures of peaceful settlement contained in Chapter VI of the United Nations Charter, such as negotiation, mediation, arbitration and adjudication. In our examination of coercive diplomacy we discuss coercive measures for preventing and resolving conflict, such as sanctions and use of force provided for in Chapter VII of the UN Charter. Finally, we use the notion of peacebuilding diplomacy to examine the mechanisms that help shape peacebuilding interventions in conflict and post-conflict zones, such as peace processes and multidimensional peace operations.

As part of this course students undertake an intensive negotiation workshop. This flagship element of the Master of Diplomacy program provides students with first-hand exposure to the challenges of managing conflict through diplomatic negotiation. You will acquire and refine new negotiation and mediation skills and techniques through a variety of learning methods, including workshop discussion, demonstration, practice and simulation. The Negotiation Workshop aims to develop the ability of students to think politically and strategically, to examine key elements in the planning and conduct of negotiation and mediation, to identify essential qualities and skills for effective negotiation and mediation, and to consolidate this knowledge through practical exercises that simulate real-world diplomatic negotiations.