4.0

credits

Average Course Rating

The introductory session will discuss the meaning attached to the term “mediation” as short hand for third party involvement in the peaceful resolution of an international or internal dispute. A distinction will be drawn between mediation in inter-state and intra-state conflicts and between conflicts revolving around demands for a share of power and those dealing with demands for self-government. The tension between the principles of territorial integrity and self-determination will be addressed as will the role of the United Nations in the peaceful settlement of disputes with examination of relevant Charter articles and evolving UN practice. Distinctions will be drawn between Preventive Diplomacy, Peace-making, Peace-keeping and Peace-building as laid down in the in the Secretary-General’s 1994 Agenda for Peace. The mediation role of regional and other inter-governmental organisations, governments, NGOs and individuals will be discussed as well.