Conflict Studies and Human Rights Utrecht University

Overview

How did the Taliban take control of Afghanistan so swiftly? Is climate change causing more armed conflicts? Will cities become the war zones of the future? How is the term ‘human rights’ used and abused in times of violent conflict? What role did social media play in the rise and subsequent collapse of the Arab Spring? How do non-state armed groups, such as insurgents and gangs, try to govern or control territories and people? What are the ethical and political issues associated with the use of drones in zones of conflict - and what impact does this have on the subjects of surveillance?

These are just some of the pressing questions arising from the complex interconnectedness of today’s world that are addressed in the MA programme Conflict Studies and Human Rights. The programme focuses on both the dynamics of violent conflicts and the problems associated with national and international military or humanitarian intervention by agencies such as the UN, NATO, or non-governmental organisations.

Careers

Since the end of the Cold War there has been a growing demand for experts on violent conflict. The Master’s  Conflict Studies and Human Rights programme at Utrecht University  offers good preparation for careers in any sector involving conflict analysis, including the public sector, business, non-governmental and international organisations.

A growing number of specialised agencies are addressing issues of conflict management and resolution, rehabilitation, human rights and security, both from an analytical perspective and through field operations. These agencies offer a variety of specialised employment opportunities.

Accreditation

Accredited by the NVAO - Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.