Preventing Violent Conflicts

Course Content: 

In a world marked by rising tensions, preventing conflicts before they turn violent has never been more urgent. Recent crises in Libya, Sudan, Yemen, and beyond have underscored the importance of addressing risks before they escalate. As a result, mediation and peacebuilding efforts are increasingly centered on preventive strategies at the local, national, and international levels.

This dynamic course offers participants an in-depth exploration of practical tools and concepts to prevent and mitigate conflict. They will engage with approaches such as early warning and early response (EWER) mechanisms, inclusive dialogue processes, conflict sensitivity, transitional justice, dealing with the past and psychosocial support. The course will also explore the emerging role of artificial intelligence and tech-based solutions in the field of conflict prevention.

Drawing on concrete case studies and lessons learned from contexts including Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Ukraine, Tunisia, Libya, Sudan, South Sudan, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the course bridges theory and practice.

This virtual course offers peacebuilders worldwide an opportunity to deepen their knowledge, exchange experiences, and engage with various experts in conflict prevention.

Course Objectives: 

• Examine the conceptual foundations of conflict prevention and learn about theoretical and practical aspects of conflict prevention methods;
• Reflect on migration and dealing with the past from a conflict prevention perspective;
• Explore the potential and application of conflict prevention methods such as early warning and early response or conflict sensitivity in different contexts;
• Learn how to design conflict prevention measures in response to concrete opportunities and challenges;
• Learn from experienced conflict prevention practitioners, identify best practices, and draw lessons from other contexts for their own work;
• Exchange experiences and become part of a community of practice.

Is this course for you? 

• Professionals working in or on fragile and conflict-affected contexts and interested in conflict prevention and early warning- and response;
• Practitioners supporting the design and implementation of conflict prevention measures;
• Practitioners and academics who want to complement their own areas of expertise with current conceptual insights and practical knowledge on preventing violent conflicts.

Is this course for you? If your are unsure, do not hesitate to contact us for counseling.

Tuition fee: 1'500 CHF

The course is offered in an interactive virtual format for 6 half-days (13h30 to 17h30 CET/CEST). It will take place on Zoom.

Apply here until: 15 October 2026