HERRBERG A. - The EU and Peace Mediation (25h)

International peace mediation is a growing and recognised professional practice for diplomats and those working in international affairs. Since the end of the Cold War the practice of peace mediation has been on the rise; conflicts are increasingly solved through negotiation and thirdparty intervention rather than military intervention. This relatively new phenomenon created a new dynamic and caused a number of mediation actors to emerge on the international scene: from the UN to regional organisations such as the OSCE and the African Union, as well as international and local NGOs, all of which play different, complementary and sometimes competitive roles in conflict resolution. The rise of international peace mediation as a professional practice and the increased attention of the UN, the EU and its member states also pose challenges, related to the increasing complexity of conflicts. The UN Guidance for Peace Mediation shows a reinforced political will to make conflict resolution through mediation as efficient as possible. As other professions, mediation is an art, a skill, and a craft. Mediation is a profession in many member states of the EU, and peace mediation and mediation support have become an independent field of expertise. Both member states and the European Union are increasing their investment in this practice as a career track next to diplomacy, with increasing levels of specialization. Yet, the concept and practice of peace mediation is often misunderstood, especially in the classic diplomatic context. Mediation can help anybody in everyday relations and it is necessary on the path towards global peace. Understanding conflict and mediation requires also a deeper awareness of the connection between the body and mind in conflict. Since 2009, the member states of the EU have explicitly recognised the need to make professional and efficient peace mediation an indispensable tool of the EU. The European External Action Service has created a team specifically dedicated for mediation support. The EU is present in most, if not all global conflict theatres through its High Representatives, the EU Special Representatives and the Heads of EU Delegations, both at the table, around the process and post agreement. Therefore, an understanding of peace mediation in the global practice of international affairs and diplomacy is indispensable.

Professor: Antje HERRBERG

ECTS card

Academic year
2021 - 2022
Semester
Second semester
Course type
Optional courses
ECTS Points
4.50