Risks and Threats to International Peacecourse is a module of the REACT program, a five-week training course focused on peacebuilding and conflict prevention.
Linkages between illicit arms, organized crime and armed conflict not only reinforce one another but also escalate violence and erode governance. Similarly, armed conflict provides an environment which enables organized crime to flourish due to the widespread availability of surplus arms and ammunition and the absence of rule of law, which allows illegal financial activities carried out by non-state armed groups to prosper.
In some countries in transition, like Colombia or Afghanistan, illicit economies such as drug cultivation, illicit mining or logging have sustained the livelihoods of many impoverished communities who possess no viable alternatives, so entering the criminal economy can be the only means of survival. It is also the primary driver of terrorism, with more than 99 percent of all terrorist-related deaths occurring in countries in conflict with social alienation, lack of economic opportunity and political instability.
This course provides a comprehensive analysis of modern conflicts through the lenses of organized crime, terrorism, radicalism, and geopolitical struggles. Participants will explore key themes such as crime prevention policies, human security approaches, and case studies of conflict zones. Special attention will be given to the impact of disinformation on peacekeeping and the evolving challenges in countering extremism.
By examining real-world examples and engaging with current strategies, participants will gain the knowledge and tools to understand risks and threats to international peace, as well as to prevent and mitigate the complex challenges that define today’s security landscape.
Learn more about Module IV here.
OBJECTIVE AND LEARNING OUTCOMES
- Understand the different concepts and definitions of organized crime, terrorism and extremism, and the definition under different legal frameworks.
- Get acquainted with the major financing mechanism of organized crime and its relations with existing conflicts.
- Understand the legal implications of humanitarian, development and peacebuilding workers engaging with terrorist groups under different jurisdictions.
- Explore the challenges of the international community’s response to maintain peace and security and fight organized crime and terrorism.
PARTICIPATING INSTITUTIONS
- Columbia University
- Centre for Defense Management and Leadership
- Global Affairs Canada
- UN
How to Apply:
For more information and how to apply, see the information below or contact us at: iucpm@helsinkiespana.org.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- University degree or equivalent professional training
- Fluency in English: B2+
- Strong interest in international affairs
To enroll in the course, please send us a copy of the following documents:
- Registration Form (available here)
- Resume/CV
- Recent digital photo, passport size
All application documents should be sent to: iucpm@helsinkiespana.org
