POL492H1S L0201

Topics in Comparative Politics IV

Rule of Law in Post-Conflict Governance

Themes

This course offers students an in-depth examination of governance, the rule of law, and their complexities and multifaceted challenges in post-conflict societies. The seminar will cover various topics related to governance and the rule of law, including constitution-making process, (re)establishment of state institutions, implementation of legal and judicial reforms, safeguarding fundamental rights, ensuring accountability for war crimes, and combatting corruption. The students will have the opportunity to learn about these processes and survey case studies to gain practical insights and a deeper understanding of the dynamics in different countries.

While Afghanistan serves as the primary case study, the course will draw upon examples from various other countries, such as Iraq, Kosovo, East Timor, and other countries in Africa and Central America, among others. In addition, the course will critically analyze both national and international strategies devised to address post-conflict governance, assessing their effectiveness, limitations, and long-term implications.

Texts

Various book chapters, journal articles, and policy papers and reports.

Prerequisites

2.0 POL credits