Politics of Ethnic Conflict

Catalog description

Course looks at the politics of identity-based contention and conflicts. Why do some multi-ethnic states remain politically stable for decades, then collapse into conflict, while others end deep and violent divisions with peaceful resolutions? Why do authoritarian regional hegemons encourage or repress ethnic consciousness? Why are democratic federations under strain, and when does ethnic polarization result in genocide? The course addresses these questions through analytical case studies of recent and contemporary contention in post-Yugoslav states, Ireland, South Africa, Rwanda, China, Russia, and Iraq. We conclude with intensive case studies of the conflict in Ukraine and recent Scottish independence referendum.