To commemorate the publication of the ‘Research Handbook on Conflict Prevention’, the Centre for the Study of Violence held a launch event, hosted by Professor Jong Kun Choi from Yonsei University.

The book, a collaboration between 26 authors edited by Professor Timo Kivimäki, analyses the complexities involved in conflict prevention via three main aspects: agency, methods, and timing.

The launch event was held at the University of Bath in July 2024, with some book’s contributors joining in person and online.

Discussing key issues in conflict prevention

Professor Choi, a Professor of International Relations and International Security at Yonsei University hosted the event, with Professor Brad Evans (Director of the Centre for the Study of Violence) moderating.

While discussing some of the main themes from the book, Professor Jong shared some of his experiences as the vice minister of foreign affairs for the Republic of Korea, specifically on the challenges on implementing an agreement and establishing trust between North and South Korea.

One of the points emphasised was the importance of negotiations when communicating with hostile actors as it gives an opportunity to understand their mindset. He also noted that although negotiations do not warrant a good outcome, it prevents conflicts from breaking out.

Another point of discussion was the instability of negative peace and how to achieve a more positive peace, arms control measures may be necessary. Here, Professor Jong compared the situation between North and South Korea with that of the Indo-Pakistan conflict, illustrating the importance of communication in avoiding a full-scale war.

Another important element in conflict prevention is cooperation from multiple parties, such as congress, the media, and its citizens. The session concluded with a question-and-answer session between the presenter and the attendees based on the previously discussed topics and Professor Jong and Professor Kivimäki’s opinions on other matters relating to conflict prevention.