University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: Thurs 1pm

This module provides a detailed introduction to the theory and practice of conflict management in sub-Saharan Africa. Focusing principally on United Nations peace operations after the Cold War, the module will explain the evolution of the UN's post-conflict role in Africa and analyse issues of sovereignty, intervention, security, and development. The post-conflict transition of several states will be examined, including Namibia, Mozambique, Rwanda, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Sudan, and the Greater Great Lakes region. The module will also articulate the impact of regional security dynamics on post-conflict transition and discuss the role of regional organisations in Africa. Finally, critical approaches to peacekeeping and peace-building will be evaluated.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass IR2006

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1 x 1-hour tutorial (x 10 weeks), One 2-hour Summer Reading Seminar (Week 1, compulsory), One 3-hour Essay Writing Workshop (Week 5, compulsory), 2 optional consultation hours with Coordinator (x 12 weeks).

Scheduled learning hours: 25

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%


Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr M N Micheni
Module teaching staff: Dr Makena Micheni
Module coordinator email mnm5@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Develop a clear understanding and knowledge of: the history and politics of African post-conflict states; the role of international and regional organizations during post-conflict transition periods in African states; and the theory and practice of peacekeeping and peacebuilding
• Trace the evolution of UN peace operations in Africa from the end of the Cold War to the present.
• Identify the principal challenges facing African states emerging from internal conflict.
• Differentiate the post-conflict roles of the UN, regional organizations, NGOs, and other actors in facilitating security and development in post-conflict states.
• Apply theories of international relations to the empirical assessment of post-conflict cases.
• Analyze the way in which norms of sovereignty and intervention impact on post-conflict peacebuilding.