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Introduction to Peacebuilding: Micro-Course

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This micro-course provides an overview of the main concepts and challenges that shape the work in the peacebuilding field. It exposes learners to the various tools and types of interventions utilized in the field and provides real-world examples that demonstrate the complex nature of peacebuilding.

UNAMID Head of Office in Sector North, Hassan Gibril, salutes (right) king Yassir, the head of Al-Berti tribe, in his palace in Mellit, Norh Darfur. (Flickr/UNAMID)
UNAMID Head of Office in Sector North, Hassan Gibril, salutes (right) king Yassir, the head of Al-Berti tribe, in his palace in Mellit, Norh Darfur. (Flickr/UNAMID)

Course Overview

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Define different conceptions of peace, conflict, and violence;
  • Identify key peacebuilding priorities;
  • Describe how context and perspective influence the peacebuilding process; and
  • Identify the different tools, types of interventions, and strategies for building peace.

Overview Video

Click on the video below for an overview of the course.

If you cannot view the video, click here.

 

Agenda

Section 1 - Introduction

Defines the main concepts and challenges that shape the work in this field.

Section 2 - Definitions and Priorities

Defines the main concepts and priorities of peacebuilding.

Section 3 - Stories from the Field

Discusses how context and perspective influence the peacebuilding process.

Section 4 - Theory and Practice

Identifies the different tools, types of interventions, and strategies for building peace.

Section 5 - Quiz

Checks your understanding and retention of key terms, concepts, and ideas presented in this course.

Section 6 - Scenario

Applies what you have learned to a fictional conflict scenario.

Section 7 - Reflections

Allows you to share what you have learned and read what others have learned from this course and how these skills and knowledge will impact the work we do.

Course Instructors and Guest Experts

Course Instructors

Guest Experts

  • Pamela Aall, Senior Advisor, U.S. Institute of Peace
  • Jeffrey Helsing, Peacebuilding Consultant & former Associate Vice President, U.S. Institute of Peace
  • Illana Lancaster, Senior Program Officer, U.S. Institute of Peace
  • Nancy Lindborg, President and CEO, The David and Lucile Packard Foundation
  • Alison Milofsky, Director, U.S. Institute of Peace
  • Matthew Levinger, Director, National Security Studies Program; Program Director, Master of International Policy and Practice; George Washington University

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