Final year module
Lecturer: Asaf Siniver
This module examines the diplomatic history of the Arab-Israeli conflict from 1948 to the present, with a focus on the role of third party mediators to bring about resolution to the conflict between Israel and the Arab world.
The first part of the module provide a theoretical review of mediation in international conflicts, and addresses issues such as the role of third parties and the necessary conditions for effective mediation; the various mediation strategies; and the nature of the bargaining process.
The second part of the module applies the theory to the rich history of Middle East diplomacy from the first Arab-Israeli war in 1948 to the Oslo Peace Process and the Road Map.
The module concludes with a simulation exercise where students assume the roles of the disputants and various mediators to asses the contributions and failings of third parties to promote Arab-Israeli peace.
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module students should:
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Develop knowledge of the key theoretical questions regarding international mediation; show an understanding of key historical developments in the region; analyse the significance of developments in the region’s diplomatic history, and the connections between them.
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Be able to think critically about subject matters; identify and address key issues in the modern political history of the Middle East; use both diplomatic and political histories of the region to construct explanations of key developments.
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Demonstrate an ability to think critically; be able to select and synthesise data from various primary and secondary sources; identify and compare key arguments; plan, research and write a piece of research.
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Communicate effectively both orally and in writing; improve their analytical, Organisational, and inter-personal skills.
Assessment
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Term One/Two: Presentation 10%
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Term One: 3,000 word assessed work 30%
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Term Two: 1 x 3,000 assessed essays 30%
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Term Three:1 x 3,000 assessed essays 30% Plus simulation exercise