International Peace Operations

United Nations peacekeeping began in 1948 and since then, the United Nations has deployed 68 peacekeeping operations, particularly in the aftermath of the Cold War. This module seeks to analyse the principles of peacekeeping and apply these to a number of contemporary and past missions. Over the semester, candidates will analyes peace operation case studies such as UNIFIL and UNPROFOR as well as relevent legal areas such as the Responsibility to Protect.

Lecturers: Professor Ray Murphy 

Semester: 1

ECTS: 15

Format: 

The course comprises a combination of seminars as well as guest lectures and the possibility of a field trip.

This is a one semester mandatory course for students taking the LL.M. in peace support operations. It is a one semester optional course for students taking other LL.M. programmes. Students are expected to read material in advance, and to engage in debate and discussion of the relevant issues during seminars.

In addition, the programme recognizes the experience of candidates who have participated in peace operations in various parts of the world. Thus the programme provides credit for a full semester course (15 credits) in exchange for submission of a written assignment of appropriate length, reviewing field experience and lessons learned.

The programme may also recognise and credit a peace operations course of appropriate duration delivered at a Centre/Institute recognized by the NUI Galway. However, in order to allow for consistent evaluation, a written paper of appropriate length will have to be submitted. The maximum credits permitted in the case of any candidate in recognition of field experience or course work completed elsewhere are 15.

Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of this course you will be able to:

Discuss and evaluate the principles of peace support operations;

• Explain the difference between traditional peacekeeping, peace enforcement; enforcement action under the UN Carter, and peace support operations;
• Critically analyze and discuss a number of contemporary and past peace operations;
• Explain the legal basis and framework of peace support operation;
• Critically discuss the political constraints on peace support operations;
• Examine the role of regional organizations such as NATO and the EU in peace support operations;
• Compare and contrast peace support operations around the world;
• Critically evaluate civilian-military relations on peace support missions.

Peace Support Operations 2020-2021