International Conference on Violence, Conflict, and Global Governance
The International Conference on Violence, Conflict, and Global Governance, held in Akhaura, BGD, serves as a critical forum for examining the interconnected challenges of global violence and conflict within the framework of international governance. This event brings together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss theoretical advancements and practical solutions aimed at fostering peace and stability worldwide. The conference emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the root causes and manifestations of violence, and the role of global institutions in mitigating its impact.
Committees & topics
Why it matters
This conference is particularly relevant in an era marked by persistent global instability and evolving forms of conflict. It provides a platform for in-depth analysis of how international governance structures can be strengthened to address complex issues ranging from interstate warfare to internal strife. By focusing on both the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of conflict resolution and peacebuilding, the conference aims to inform policy and inspire collaborative action among diverse stakeholders.
The discussions are particularly relevant given ongoing conflicts in various regions, highlighting the urgent need for effective global governance mechanisms. The insights generated from this conference can contribute to more robust frameworks for preventing violence, managing crises, and building sustainable peace. It underscores the importance of international cooperation and the continuous adaptation of governance strategies to meet contemporary challenges.
How to prepare
To prepare effectively for this conference, participants should consider engaging with the core concepts of global governance and conflict studies. A strong understanding of various theoretical perspectives on violence, peace, and international relations will be beneficial. Participants are encouraged to review relevant literature on international law, human rights, and the roles of international organizations in conflict zones.
Attendees should also be prepared to discuss case studies and real-world examples of conflict and peacebuilding efforts. Familiarity with different engagement strategies and the complexities of gender dynamics across cultures in conflict settings will enrich contributions. Understanding how to identify hidden stakeholders and conduct dynamic analysis of conflict situations will be valuable for contributing to the discussions on practical solutions and policy recommendations.
Country perspectives
Where the most-relevant 5 countries stand on the core issues in play. Click through for the full country profile.
BangladeshAs the host nation, BGD provides a regional context for discussions on violence and conflict, particularly concerning issues of internal stability and cross-border dynamics.
Role in topic
BGD's experience with regional challenges and its participation in international peacekeeping efforts offer a valuable perspective on the practicalities of global governance in addressing violence and conflict. The location in Akhaura underscores the importance of regional stability in broader global security.
United StatesThe USA often emphasizes the role of multilateral institutions and strategic alliances in maintaining global peace and security, while also navigating its own national interests.
Role in topic
The USA's significant influence in international organizations and its involvement in numerous global conflicts and peace initiatives make its perspective crucial for discussions on global governance and conflict resolution. Its approach to intervention, diplomacy, and aid shapes much of the international discourse.
RussiaRUS frequently advocates for a multipolar world order and emphasizes state sovereignty, often challenging Western-led interventions and governance models.
Role in topic
RUS's role as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and its involvement in various geopolitical hotspots provide a critical perspective on the limitations and possibilities of global governance in managing conflicts. Its views on international law and sovereignty are central to debates on intervention.
ChinaCHN generally promotes non-interference in internal affairs and economic development as a pathway to stability, while expanding its global influence through economic and diplomatic means.
Role in topic
CHN's growing economic and political power makes its approach to global governance and conflict resolution increasingly important. Its emphasis on sovereignty and development offers an alternative framework for addressing violence and instability, particularly in developing regions.
FranceFRA often champions multilateralism, human rights, and humanitarian intervention, playing an active role in international security operations and diplomatic efforts.
Role in topic
As a key European power and permanent member of the UN Security Council, FRA's perspective on global governance is shaped by its commitment to international law and its historical involvement in various regions. Its advocacy for human rights and humanitarian action influences discussions on ethical interventions.
Topics & background
The background behind each topic and the actors that shape it.
The Dynamics of Violence in Contemporary Conflicts
Key players
- United States
Leading military power and largest funder of UN peace operations, shaping doctrine on counterterrorism and protection of civilians.
- Russia
Party to the war in Ukraine and a key actor through state-linked private military companies in Africa and the Middle East.
- China
Rising security actor emphasizing state sovereignty and non-interference, and a major contributor to UN peacekeeping personnel.
- France
Permanent Security Council member with deep involvement in Sahelian and Levantine conflict diplomacy.
EthiopiaRecent site of major intrastate conflict in Tigray, illustrating the dynamics of contemporary internal war.
SyriaEmblematic case of protracted, internationalized civil war involving multiple state and non-state actors.
Global Governance and the Regulation of Armed Conflict
Key players
- United States
Permanent Security Council member and principal architect of the post-1945 security order.
- Russia
Permanent member whose vetoes and conduct in Ukraine have become a central test of the Charter regime.
- China
Permanent member promoting a sovereignty-centered reading of international law and growing role in arms control debates.
United KingdomPermanent member active in arms control, ICC support, and protection of civilians initiatives.
- France
Permanent member championing veto restraint in mass atrocity situations and IHL compliance.
SwitzerlandDepositary of the Geneva Conventions and host of key disarmament and humanitarian negotiations.
Human Rights Violations in Conflict Zones
Key players
UkraineSite of an active ICC investigation and a major theater for documentation of conflict-related abuses.
MyanmarSubject of an ongoing genocide case at the ICJ and an IIMM evidence-gathering mandate.
SudanSite of mass atrocities in Darfur and current civil war, central to contemporary accountability debates.
NetherlandsHost state of the ICC and ICJ, central to international criminal accountability.
- United States
Major political actor on accountability with a complex posture toward the ICC.
South AfricaLead complainant in the ICJ genocide case concerning Gaza and a vocal Global South voice on accountability.
Peacebuilding Strategies in Post-Conflict Societies
Key players
ColombiaReference case for negotiated peace with the FARC and ongoing implementation of transitional justice.
RwandaPost-genocide reconstruction model and major troop contributor to current peace operations.
Sierra LeoneFrequently cited success case combining a special court, truth commission, and DDR.
NorwayLeading mediator and financier of peace processes from Colombia to the Middle East.
GermanyChair of the Peacebuilding Commission in recent configurations and major funder of peacebuilding.
South SudanOngoing test case for peacebuilding under a fragile revitalized peace agreement.
The Role of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution
Key players
QatarPrincipal mediator in Afghanistan, Gaza hostage talks, and other Middle Eastern files.
- Norway
Long-standing facilitator of peace processes including Colombia, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines.
- Switzerland
Neutral host and protecting power for sensitive bilateral and multilateral negotiations.
TurkeyMediator on Russia-Ukraine grain and prisoner exchanges and active regional diplomatic actor.
- China
Emerging mediator, notably brokering the 2023 Saudi-Iran normalization.
- United States
Central diplomatic actor in most major peace processes, from the Middle East to the Korean Peninsula.
Resources
News, lessons, and country profiles to prep for International Conference on Violence, Conflict, and Global Governance.
Lessons
Bite-sized lessons to build the basics
Courses
Guided courses that go deeper on the topic
The states in play, with the data that shapes their stance
BangladeshCountry dossier
United StatesCountry dossier
RussiaCountry dossier
ChinaCountry dossier
FranceCountry dossier
EthiopiaCountry dossier
SyriaCountry dossier
United KingdomCountry dossier
SwitzerlandCountry dossier
UkraineCountry dossier
MyanmarCountry dossier
SudanCountry dossier
NetherlandsCountry dossier
South AfricaCountry dossier
ColombiaCountry dossier
RwandaCountry dossier
Sierra LeoneCountry dossier
NorwayCountry dossier
GermanyCountry dossier
South SudanCountry dossier
QatarCountry dossier
Country dossier