Fragility, Conflict Violence

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Juris Doctor

By 2030, about half the world’s extreme poor will be living in fragile or conflict-affected countries. The only countries where poverty is increasing are fragile states. Furthermore, conflicts in one country or region have spillover effects (refugees, terrorism) on neighboring countries or even distant ones. In short, tackling fragility, conflict and violence is one of the biggest challenges facing the global community. This course will first define, measure, and identify the distinguishing characteristics of fragile states. Next, we will examine the causes and consequences of conflict and violence. Finally, we will discuss strategies for addressing fragility, conflict and violence in specific countries and regions, including Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Students will prepare two thematic policy briefs on specific countries or regions, and a broad-based strategy for addressing fragility, conflict and violence in a given country.