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University of Bath

Social policy and conflict prevention in the MENA region

University of Bath via FutureLearn

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Overview

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Learn how to tackle geopolitical challenges with The University of Bath

Understanding the relationship between social policy and conflict prevention is paramount, considering its significant role in shaping the incidence, scope, and severity of conflicts.

This four-week course provides a unique opportunity to explore the dynamics between conflict prevention and social protection, with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to geopolitical debates and challenges.

Learn how to make a positive impact in the MENA region

The course situates debates about the role of social policy and social protection in preventing conflict.

You’ll delve into international politics and the political economy of the MENA region to understand its complex challenges. This includes limited data access, weak governance, and social inequality.

Through this exploration, you’ll gain the knowledge and tools to develop effective approaches to help create a more stable and peaceful society.

Learn how social policies influence conflict

Next, you’ll uncover how social policies influence conflict dynamics.

Specifically, you’ll learn how to operationalise the relationship between social policy and conflict prevention programming in the context of the challenges faced in the MENA region.

Gain a deeper understanding of the political economy in MENA

You’ll gain clarity on core concepts and identify approaches to mitigate the impact of violence and promote social cohesion.

Learning from the experts at The University of Bath, you’ll finish the course knowing how to positively contribute to conflict prevention in the MENA region.

This course is designed for anyone interested in developing conflict prevention strategies and programmes.

It will be of particular benefit to researchers and practitioners in the following types of organisations: government ministries dealing with social affairs, social development, labour and interior affairs; local civil society actors; the international donor community; local and international non-governmental organisations; academic and non-academic researchers; think tanks; public sector decision-makers.

While no specific academic prerequisites are required, a basic understanding of global affairs or a related field would be beneficial.

Syllabus

  • Key Concepts in Social Policy
    • Welcome to the Course
    • The Crucial Role of Social Policy in Conflict Dynamics and Effective Conflict Prevention Strategies
    • Uncovering the Contemporary Social Policy Debates in the MENA Region
    • End of Week 1
  • Key Concepts in Conflict Prevention and Resolution
    • Deciphering Conflict Dynamics: The Interplay of Social Policy in MENA
    • Governance, Social Protection, Identity and Vulnerable Populations in MENA
    • Economic Dimensions and Inequality in MENA
    • End of Week Two
  • The link between Social Policy and Conflict Prevention
    • Contextualising Social Policy in the MENA region
    • Institutions and Actors in Social Policy and Conflict Prevention
    • Gender, Refugees, and Crises in MENA
    • End of Week Three
  • Contextual Insights from the MENA region
    • Social Protection and Cash Transfer Programs in MENA
    • Gender, Inequality, and Environmental Challenges in MENA
    • Economic Policies, Trade, and Employment Trends in MENA
    • End of Week Four

Taught by

Rana Jawad

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