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Evolving Approaches to Peacebuilding and Human Rights Education
Insights from European Peace and Conflict Studies Programmes
Authors: Orli Fridman & Dragana Stojanović, Data collection by Nikola Tucakov
This report examined Peace and Conflict Studies (PCS) curricula to find out how human rights and peacebuilding intersect and to identify effective ways of combining theory and practice in the education of future leaders. The analysis of 17 European MA programmes revealed different approaches to the integration of human rights, with critical and affirmative perspectives emerging. Our research revealed that critical programmes see human rights as part of the liberal peace model that may overlook local contexts. As such, they advocate context-sensitive strategies. Affirmative programmes see human rights as an integral part of PCS, emphasising cooperation with institutions such as the UN and NGOs and recognising their role in conflict resolution.
Many PCS programmes fall between these two ends of the spectrum, embedding human rights within broader courses such as transitional justice or migration, without stand-alone modules. Such programmes often balance theory with practical training through simulations or internships, preparing students for careers in academia, diplomacy, civil society or international organisations. Challenges remain in establishing partnerships with non-academic institutions and expanding exchange opportunities, which are hampered by logistical and accreditation complexities.
Cite as: Fridman, Orli and Dragana Stojanovic 2015. Evolving Approaches to Peacebuilding and Human Rights Education: Insights from European Peace and Conflict Studies Programmes. SHARINPEACE Report #1.2
Disclaimer: The European Commission support for the production of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents, which reflects the views only of the authors, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use, which may be made of the information contained therein.
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Simulating Human Rights in Peacebuilding SHARINPEACE
Erasmus+ Cooperation Partnerships, 2021-1-DE01-KA220-HED-000031133
