Conflict Resolution in the Middle East

Subject 110-593 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points:

12.50

Level:

9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)

Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

Semester 1, - Taught on campus.

Pre-teaching Period Start	not applicable
Teaching Period	not applicable
Assessment Period End	not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol	not applicable
Census Date	not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail	not applicable

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.

Time Commitment:

Contact Hours: A 2-hour seminar per week
Total Time Commitment:

Estimated total time commitment (including non-contact time): 120 hours

Prerequisites:

None

Corequisites:

None

Recommended Background Knowledge:

None

Non Allowed Subjects:

None

Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Mr Shahram Akbarzadeh

Contact

A/Prof Shahram Akbarzadeh
shahrama@unimelb.edu.au

Subject Overview:	This subject will explore the patterns of civil and international conflict in Islamic societies in the Middle East and attempts at its resolution. Specifically, it will highlight how a variety of formal and informal conflict resolution mechanisms have been employed with varying degrees of success. This review of the mechanics of conflict resolution will be complemented by a detailed examination of conflict resolution theory and how it links to practice. A series of case studies will be coupled with a detailed examination of both the theoretical and practical underpinnings of conflict resolution to evaluate current and alternative trends at the resolution of conflict in the Middle East.
Objectives:	Students who successfully complete this subject should:- gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of patterns of conflict in the Middle East and an ability to relate the interconnectedness of conflicts to the difficulties of conflict resolution be able to demonstrate detailed knowledge of the conflict resolution processes in the Arab-Israel/Israeli-Palestinian conflicts, the Lebanese civil war, the Iran-Iraq war, the Algerian civil war and the current conflicts in Iraq and Sudan; gain an understanding of Islamic political and social mechanisms relative to the processes of conflict resolution develop an understanding of the role of major international powers in Middle Eastern conflict resolution as well as the mechanics of United Nations conflict resolution practice, the role of NGOs and local cultural processes of conflict resolution.
Assessment:	A 1500 word essay (due mid semester) 25% and a 3500 word essay (due during the examination period) 75%.
Prescribed Texts:	Baxter and Akbarzadeh, US Foreign Policy in the Middle East: the rise of anti-Americanism. Routledge, 2008 John Burton , Conflict: Human Needs Theory. Macmillan, 1990
Breadth Options:	This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information:	Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:	Students who successfully complete this subject should Develop an understanding of the broad conceptual basis of conflict resolution theory from materialist, structuralist, and 'culturalist' standpoints Develop an understanding of the various manifestations of conflict resolution practice, such as Track I and II diplomacy, interstate and non-state negotiations, and the role of civil society Demonstrate well-developed research skills and theoretical background and ability Develop a sophisticated level of oral skills; Improved writing skills by producing two research essays.
Related Course(s):	Master of Islamic Studies Postgraduate Diploma in Islamic Studies
Related Majors/Minors/Specialisations:	Islamic Studies Islamic Studies

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