Conflict and Democracy Studies

Overview

We understand conflict to be a permanent, invariant feature of humankind, one that fuels both progress and failure. Since humans first began to establish rich social (and societal) ties, there have been struggles for power and a search for the best possible regime in any given time and place. Sometimes, to achieve their goals, conflicting parties use violence; sometimes they are able to come to a peaceful solution. 

A key question therefore becomes whether it is possible to democratize (or decentralize) various (deeply divided) societies without fuelling ethnic, religious, or other conflict. Following that is the question as to whether and how the threat of violent conflict is used by authorities to entrench, sustain, or even deepen autocratic tendencies. A focus on these questions is therefore natural and prudent.

Career opportunities

The graduates of the Conflict and Democracy Studies from Masaryk University receive the training necessary for a successful professional realization in a number of professional areas. Typical job opportunities include political-analytical jobs, consulting, research and teaching positions at universities, positions in the state administration, positions within the apparatus of political parties, and positions in the diplomatic services. Further outstanding opportunities for professional realization are provided by the institutions of the European Union, as well as by other international organizations.