Peace Agreements: Global Perspectives and the Colombian Experience

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The signing of a peace agreement is often celebrated as the end of conflict, but it is more accurately the beginning of a complex and challenging peacebuilding process. Why do some agreements succeed while others fail to bring lasting peace? In this course, we will critically examine the design and implementation of peace accords through a research, policy, and practice lens. We will explore key themes such as disarmament, transitional justice, political participation, and socio-economic development, drawing on case studies from around the globe. A central component of this course is a deep dive into the 2016 Colombian Peace Agreement. Using the Peace Accords Matrix (PAM) database—a unique resource housed at the Kroc Institute—we will analyze the accord’s provisions and track its implementation trajectory. We will engage with diverse sources, including academic research, policy reports, and the lived experiences of those directly affected by the conflict. This course includes a required experiential learning trip to Colombia during spring break. This immersive experience will allow us to engage directly with local peacebuilders, policymakers, and community members. We will witness firsthand the challenges and successes of peace implementation, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Through this learning-by-doing approach, we will collectively reflect on the roles that peace agreements play in shaping post-accord societies and our own understanding of peace and war. To apply for this course, complete the following form no later than November 10, 2025: https://forms.gle/MwaRjk4xz2u5F2nXA.