This course examines the crucial role that peaceful elections play in building and maintaining peaceful societies. The module focuses on the political, social, and economic factors that contribute to election violence and explores practical approaches for preventing and mitigating these risks. Participants will examine different models of election monitoring and observe the practices used by successful election observers. The module will also cover strategies for voter education, dialogue facilitation, and early warning systems. Case studies from various African countries and around the world will be analyzed to illustrate the application of different approaches to election monitoring and conflict prevention. By the end of the course, participants will have the skills and knowledge necessary to support peaceful and democratic elections and will be equipped with practical tools for working in election-related contexts.
Current
Reflecting on Peace Practice
Reflective Peace Practices (RPP) is a course that focuses on evaluating and enhancing peacebuilding efforts. The course examines the effectiveness of current peacebuilding programs and identifies ways to improve them. Participants will analyze conflict situations, develop SMART goals, and identify key conflict factors. Through RPP, participants will learn to design and implement proactive peace plans that address the root causes of conflict. The course was developed by the Collaborative for Development Action (CDA) in collaboration with practitioners from around the world. Participants will also learn about program monitoring and evaluation, making this course an essential tool for peace practitioners, managers, and anyone interested in promoting peace and stability in their community.
Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP)
This course explores the complex issues surrounding refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), including their legal status, rights, and challenges in seeking protection and durable solutions. Participants will examine the various causes and consequences of displacement, including conflict, persecution, and environmental disasters, and will analyze the different responses of governments, international organizations, and civil society to address these challenges. The course will also examine the impact of displacement on host communities, social cohesion, and conflict dynamics, and explore the potential of refugees and IDPs as agents of change and contributors to development. Through a combination of case studies, interactive discussions, and simulations, participants will develop practical skills for designing and implementing effective interventions to support the protection, assistance, and empowerment of refugees and IDPs. By the end of the course, participants will have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities of displacement, and the skills and knowledge to support refugees and IDPs in rebuilding their lives and contributing to their communities.
Gender and Peacebuilding
The Gender and Peacebuilding course is designed to address the crucial role of gender in both conflict and peace. Participants will explore the relationship between gender, peacebuilding, and human development, and the impact of gender roles and stereotypes on peace and security. By analyzing case studies and best practices, participants will gain an understanding of how gender shapes conflicts and impacts post-conflict reconstruction and peacebuilding efforts. In addition, participants will examine how economic development can be gender-sensitive and its role in conflict prevention and resolution. Ultimately, this course will empower participants to develop gender-sensitive and inclusive strategies for building and sustaining peace in their own communities and beyond.
Project Monitoring and Evaluation (PME)
This course introduces project monitoring and evaluation (PME) in the context of peacebuilding initiatives. Students will learn the principles and practices of PME, including the design and implementation of monitoring and evaluation plans, data collection and analysis, and reporting and communication of results. Through lectures, case studies, and practical exercises, students will explore the challenges and opportunities of PME in peacebuilding projects, including the importance of measuring impact, adapting to changing circumstances, and engaging stakeholders in the evaluation process. By the end of the course, students will have gained the knowledge and skills to design and implement effective PME plans for peacebuilding projects, and use data to improve program design, management, and impact.
Trauma Awareness and Reconciliation
This course explores the complex interplay between trauma, conflict, and reconciliation, examining how trauma can impact individuals and societies, and how it can be addressed through a reconciliation process. Through readings, lectures, case studies, and practical exercises, students will gain a deeper understanding of the causes and effects of trauma, including intergenerational trauma, and explore different approaches to trauma healing and reconciliation. The course will also examine the role of justice, forgiveness, and accountability in the reconciliation process, and the challenges and opportunities of promoting reconciliation in different contexts. By the end of the course, students will have gained the knowledge and skills to identify and address trauma in themselves and others, design strategies for reconciliation, and engage in constructive dialogue and action towards healing and social transformation.