Conflict Environments and their Violent Influences

Programme Introduction

Building on the Terrorism and Conflict Studies team’s expertise in political violence and terrorism, this programme examines the intersection and dependencies that exist between conflict, organised crime, extremism, the dynamics and implications of non-state armed group interventions and governance, and various forms of proactive/responsive intervention, from ‘soft’ non-military engagement to security sector reform and assistance. The themes addressed span multiple geographical areas, allowing for the mapping, analysis, and response to instability and violence, thereby facilitating a more holistic appraisal of contemporary conflicts and their prevention, mitigation, and resolution.

This programme aims to identify and highlight the various factors contributing to conflict and violence by considering the complex and interconnected nature of most conflicts. By employing gender-sensitive and intersectional research methodologies, we intend to examine the effects of multiple drivers that frequently interact to fuel conflict, such as ideology, individual and political identity, resource scarcity, climate change, among others.