Conflict Studies and Human Rights

The Master's programme of Conflict Studies and Human Rights places a spotlight on the intricate dynamics of conflict, collective violence, and the associated political, cultural, and societal problems and tensions. 

What drives people to take up arms, and how do conflicts reshape societies? How are new technologies—like drones, surveillance systems, and artificial intelligence—redefining the nature of war? Why do peacebuilding efforts so often fail, as seen in Mali and other conflict zones? How does the climate crisis intensify resource conflicts and displacements around the globe? And how can we begin to address cycles of systemic violence, such as police brutality in urban spaces? For students looking for an extra challenge, Utrecht University offers several interdisciplinary honours programmes.