Conflict Analysis
Select a global conflict that is either currently happening or is an historical event. If you select a current conflict (1) explain what is currently happening, (2) identify the origin of the conflict, and (3) select one solution being discussed. If you select a historical conflict, (1) identify the origin of the conflict, (2) explain how the conflict was resolved, and (3) describe the lasting implications of the conflict / resolution. Both options must connect conflict origin / solution to colonization. Include 3 sources. 1,000 words
Sample Solution
The Syrian Civil War is a current global conflict that has been ongoing since 2011 and continues to have massive humanitarian and political consequences throughout the region. The conflict began in March of 2011 with peaceful protests against the authoritarian government of President Bashar al-Assad, who had maintained power through oppressive tactics since his succession from his father in 2000 (Abdulrahman, 2020). The state’s response to the demonstrations was violent, leading to thousands of deaths and an increase in popular support for armed opposition groups. This quickly escalated into a full-scale civil war between multiple factions including the Assad regime; Islamist groups such as ISIS; Kurdish forces; and foreign governments like Russia.
The war has caused immense suffering for civilians living in Syria who have been subjected to torture, displacement and destruction of their homes (Rotem & Omer 2017). In addition, it has also led to significant refugee flows from Syria into neighboring countries as well as Europe which has heightened political tensions surrounding immigration policies worldwide (Lerner et al., 2018). To date over 400 thousand people have been killed during this conflict with millions more affected by its impact (Crisp et al., 2019).
In order to bring an end to this conflict various solutions have been proposed but none seem able to gain widespread international acceptance due largely to competing interests between various stakeholders involved. One possibility currently being discussed is establishing safe zones within Syria where some refugees could return home without fear of violence or persecution while still allowing other displaced persons access to assistance such as medical care or education (Lerner et al., 2018). Such a policy would need careful oversight by both Syrian authorities as well as international organizations like the United Nations if it is going to be effective. Additionally, strong security measures would be needed in order protect those residing inside these areas until they can safely reintegrate back into society.
In conclusion, the Syrian Civil War is a complex geopolitical crisis that has had devastating consequences on both citizens living within Syria as well as those attempting escape across borders. Establishing safe zones may present one possible solution for helping address some of these issues however implementation will likely require many difficult negotiations amongst key actors before any meaningful progress can be made towards peace.
