History Of Conflict Research Articles

Public attitudes towards immigrants: A curious case of Croatia

AbstractThe Croatian population has been subjected to violent ethnic conflicts during the war in the 1990s and has more recently experienced large‐scale irregular and refugee migrations, as well as a notable increase in regular labour migration. Using data from the most recent wave of the European Social Survey, we have conducted an analysis of Croatian attitudes towards immigrants. Our study found that, despite Croatia's history of ethnic conflict and ongoing changes in its migration system, the Croatian population still exhibits relatively low levels of negative attitudes towards immigrants compared to other Eastern European countries. With regards to individual determinants of attitudes, one of the biggest surprizes is that political party preferences play a minor role in explaining attitudes towards immigrants. We discuss our findings and conclude that there is an urgent need for better theoretical and empirical framework for understanding illiberal tendencies in Eastern European societies, particularly within the current context of rapidly worsening security situation in Europe.

Self-government, Social Change, and Conflict in Oxchuc, Chiapas: The Long Road of Internal War in an Indigenous Mexican Municipality

During the 2015 post-electoral conflict in the municipality of Oxchuc, Chiapas, came the demand for the election of municipal authorities through its own internal regulatory system. After going through several phases, proponents of change in electoral proceedings obtained legal recognition for Indigenous self-government. This achievement led to an interlude in the long history of political conflict and social change in the municipality. In this article we examine the contemporary history, processes, and recent political developments in the municipality of Oxchuc, which led to institutional recognition of this municipality’s self-government.

Neither secular nor sectarian: perspectives on social life and politics among Beirut's religiously devout youth

Abstract This paper explores the following question: How does individual religiosity and attachment to a religious community relate to sectarian political loyalties or interpersonal prejudices in a post-conflict, institutionally sectarianized society? The paper explores this question through dialectic, participatory methods with youth involved in community-based youth associations with a religious component. The paper investigates how religiously devout youth in Lebanon conceptualize the personal and communal elements of their religiosity in relation to sectarian politics. In this way, the paper contributes to a study of social sectarianism, in which scholars are striving to understand what individuals mean when they speak about sect, and how discussions surrounding sect mask more complex underlying social realities. Overall, these accounts suggest that personal and social religiosity both positively influence anti-sectarian political outlook among participants, while other factors, such as the institutional sectarianization of public life and a history of violent conflict maintain participants' default attachment to co-sectarian networks in terms of routine, economic security, and communal belonging.

Tracing the Application of Modern Principles of International Humanitarian Law in the pre-Christian War between King Duṭugamunu and Elāra in Sri Lanka

The war between King Duṭugamunu and Elāra is the most significant singular war that took place in the pre-Christian period in Sri Lanka. It has the elements of modern international armed conflict (IAC). A local monarch waged it to unify the nation against an invading foreign force led by a foreign ruler who seized power through regicide. This historical conflict sparked extensive debates, criticisms, and varying interpretations, contributing to distortions of factual accounts. The studies analysing this battle from the perspectives of the modern International Humanitarian Law (IHL) is minimal. The branch of public international law that deals with IAC is International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The research problem that was investigated is 'Did the Sri Lankan monarch comply with the modern principles of international humanitarian law when there were no such laws at that time in the world and thereby, does that monarch deserve to be called as the founder of IHL? Accordingly, this study aims at analysing the motives, intentions, and conduct including the pre-conflict, in-conflict, and post-conflict behaviour of key actors and the war's outcome from the perspectives of IHL. The methodology used for this study is literature review. It is qualitative and interpretative in nature. The historical sources, international conventions and national legislations were used as primary and secondary sources for this purpose. The focus of the analysis is the evaluation of IHL principles in the context of the historical war. This study provides a unique analysis that suggests the application of principles akin to modern IHL by the ruling monarch nearly two millennia before the formal establishment of such principles. The major finding is that some 2019 years prior to the international community introduced the modern IHL principles such as humanity, avoidance of unnecessary suffering, proportionality of damages, humane treatment of prisoners of war (POW) etc., the ruling Sri Lankan monarch has recognised and applied them in this war and has recognised the new principle of Eternal Honour to POWs which is yet to recognise by IHL. Keywords: Humanitarian; International; Law; Vijiṭapura; War

Posttraumatic Pseudomonas aeruginosa Osteomyelitis in Mosul and Gaza: A Retrospective Cohort Study, 2018-2022.

The history of conflicts in the Middle East has resulted in a high burden of complications from conflict-related wounds like posttraumatic osteomyelitis (PTO). This is particularly challenging to manage in settings like Mosul, Iraq and Gaza, Palestine, where healthcare systems are weakened. In nonconflict settings, PTO caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAPTO) can lead to >20% of treatment failures. We aim to describe the clinical characteristics, outcomes, and management, in PAPTO patients admitted to Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) facilities in Mosul and Gaza between 1 April 2018 and 31 January 2022. We conducted a retrospective cohort study on patients with PAPTO diagnosed with culture of intraoperative bone biopsy, using routinely collected data. Among 66 PAPTO episodes from 61 enrolled patients, 37.9% had a multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with higher antibiotic resistance in Gaza. Polymicrobial infections were prevalent (74.2%), mainly involving Staphylococcus aureus (74.1%), being predominantly methicillin-resistant (95.0%). Overall, 81.7% received appropriate antibiotic treatment, with monotherapy used in 60.6% of episodes and a median treatment duration of 45.5 days. Recurrence was observed in 24.6% of episodes within a median of 195 days (interquartile range, 64-440 days). No significant differences were found in recurrence rates based on the type of antibiotic treatment (mono- or dual therapy) or episode (mono- or polymicrobial). Management of PAPTO in the conflict-affected, low-resource settings of Mosul and Gaza achieved a recurrence rate aligned with global reports through appropriate and targeted antibiotic use, primarily in monotherapy, provided over a mean treatment duration of 45.5 days.

The Interplay Between Ethnicity, Borders and Cross-border Political Spaces: Insights from the Italian–Austrian Border Region

This paper explores the dynamics of cross-border relations, ethnic diversity and the role of sub-state actors in border regions, focusing on the Austrian–Italian border. Using a transnational regionalism lens, it examines how minorities, majorities, sub-state political elites and the media perceive and utilise cross-border spaces. The findings reveal contested perspectives among sub-state political elites, influenced by historical conflicts, while the media emphasise the connective role of the state border. Furthermore, autonomist parties and representatives contribute to framing cross-border cooperation as a means of connection and shared territorial policymaking. The research highlights the potential of sub-state to foster inclusive cross-border relations in minority contexts and empower minority communities in border regions, offering insights into integration and connection beyond ethnic and territorial divisions.

Supply chain agility in humanitarian organisations: examining the role of self-organisation, information integration and adaptability in South Sudan

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose and validate a theoretical model to investigate the relationship between self-organisation, information integration, adaptability and supply chain agility in humanitarian organisations. Design/methodology/approach A theoretical model was developed from extant studies and assessed through a structured questionnaire survey of 86 humanitarian organisations operating in South Sudan. The data were analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling. Findings The study found that self-organisation has a discernible positive influence on supply chain agility not only directly but also indirectly through adaptability. Further, information integration does not significantly influence supply chain agility directly but is fully mediated by adaptability. Together, the antecedent variables account for 53.9% variance in supply chain agility. Research limitations/implications This study contributes to providing an empirical understanding of a humanitarian supply chain as a complex adaptive system and hence the need to incorporate self-organising and adaptive dimensions in supply chain management practice. Furthermore, it confirms the centrality of the complex adaptive system feature of adaptability when building supply chain agility through self-organisation and information integration. Practical implications The findings provide a firm ground for managerial decisions on investment in self-organisation and information integration dimensions so as to enhance adaptability and improve supply chain agility in humanitarian organisations. Originality/value This study is distinctive in the sense that it uses the complex adaptive system variables to empirically validate the relationships between self-organisation, information integration, adaptability and supply chain agility in humanitarian organisations in the world’s youngest developing economy with a long history of conflict and humanitarian intervention. The mediating influence of adaptability examined in this study is also novel.

An integrated threat theory analysis of latent tension between native Indonesians and Chinese Indonesians

ABSTRACT The relationship between Chinese Indonesians and native Indonesians (Pribumi) is marred by tensions and violence. The Dutch colonial legacies have positioned Chinese Indonesians as perpetual outsiders, making them constantly question their roles and identity in the process of Indonesian nation-building. Despite their centuries-old presence and Indonesia’s almost three decades of reform, prejudice towards Chinese Indonesians persists. This was reflected in the 2017 Indonesia National Survey Project, suggesting native Indonesians still perceive their Chinese Indonesian counterparts as an economically privileged group, greedy, selfish, and exclusive. Using integrated threat theory, this study explores the link between the perception of threats and prejudice towards Chinese Indonesians. Using multiple regression analysis, this study found stereotypes, realistic threats, history of intergroup conflicts, and age are strong predictors of prejudice towards the ethnic Chinese in Indonesia. Theoretical, methodological, and practical implications for integrated threat and prejudice are discussed.

Challenges and Solutions to the Recurrent Measles Outbreak in Somalia

This study aims to address the persistent challenge of recurrent measles outbreaks inSomalia by providing an analysis of underlying issues and proposing evidence-basedsolutions. Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, continues to pose significantthreat to public health worldwide, with Somalia facing unique challenges due to itscomplex geographical and sociopolitical landscape. The country’s history of conflict,fragile healthcare infrastructure, and limited access to basic healthcare services havehindered efforts to control preventable diseases like measles.These recurrent outbreaks do not only have immediate consequences on public healthbut also exacerbate an already precarious situation in Somalia, leading to substantialsocioeconomic impacts as families grapple with the dual burden of disease and strainon livelihoods. The primary objective of this communication is to analyze the challengescontributing to the persistence of measles outbreaks in Somalia and propose evidencebasedsolutions.To achieve this goal, the subsequent sections of this brief delve into the specificchallenges facing Somalia in its battle against recurrent measles outbreaks. Thesechallenges encompass issues such as vaccine access, vaccine hesitancy, coveragedisparities, fragility of healthcare infrastructure, obstacles in community engagement,and limitations in disease surveillance and response.Understanding these intricate factors is crucial for designing targeted interventionsthat not only mitigate the immediate impact of measles outbreaks but also establish afoundation for long-term prevention.

Challenges of Malaria Control in Northern Uganda: Infrastructure, Access, and Healthcare Delivery

Malaria remained a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with Uganda, particularly its northern region, bearing a high burden of the disease. This article examined the persistent malaria crisis in Northern Uganda, focusing on the interplay between inadequate healthcare infrastructure, limited access to medical services, and systemic inefficiencies in healthcare delivery. Northern Uganda’s healthcare infrastructure, weakened by historical conflicts, poverty, and underdevelopment, presents significant barriers to effective malaria control. Geographic isolation, socioeconomic inequities, and cultural practices further constrained access to healthcare, while human resource shortages, supply chain disruptions, and fragmented health services undermined the quality and continuity of care. The article utilized a comprehensive review of existing literature and data to analyze these challenges and proposed potential solutions. Strategies such as strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing access to care, improving healthcare delivery, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders were essential for reducing the malaria burden and improving health outcomes in the region. Keywords: Malaria Control, Healthcare Infrastructure, Northern Uganda, Access to Care, Systemic Inefficiencies

The Middle East Tragedy: Between Utopia and Dystopia

ABSTRACT This paper discusses the present Israeli-Palestinian war, with an emphasis on the destructive clash between two utopian visions: the vision of “Greater Israel” – including all Palestinian territories – of the far right in Israel, and the vision of destroying the state of Israel, fundamental in Hamas ideology. The dystopic result of this clash is explored from a psychoanalytic point of view, relying in part on Ogden’s notion of historicity as achieved only in the depressive position, and Jessica Benjamin’s notion of a “doer and done-to” mode which excludes recognition of the reciprocal interaction that is essential to that historicity. A brief review of the history of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, lasting more than a hundred years, points to the constant reciprocal influences leading to its deterioration, and ends with the hope for a pragmatic compromise that would alleviate the suffering and traumatization on both sides.

Prejudice toward the Xinyimin in Indonesia: testing the integrated threat model

ABSTRACT China’s Belt and Road Initiative has galvanized new Chinese migration to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia. The presence of the new Chinese migrants (Xinyimin) has not gone without resistance in Indonesia. This study examines the effects of history of intergroup conflicts and contact on the formation of threat perceptions toward the Xinyimin in Indonesia. The findings revealed both history of conflicts and contact predict realistic threat and highlight the importance of open communication in mitigating intergroup biases.

Interferențe interculturale referitoare la dialogul dintre știintă și religie

The article delves into the dynamic interaction between science and religion, highlighting both historical conflicts and moments of mutual cooperation. It focuses on how cosmological paradigms and ethical principles from both fields intertwine, shaping religious doctrines' interpretations and our perception of the universe. Particularly notable is how recent scientific discoveries reinterpret and adapt the fundamental meanings of sacred texts, underscoring the critical importance of ongoing dialogue between science and religion in developing a holistic and integrated view of reality.

Aufsätze / Articles. True Colours of Ruscism: Dirty War Against Ukraine Fuelled by the Historical Conflict of Nations

Aufsätze / Articles. True Colours of Ruscism: Dirty War Against Ukraine Fuelled by the Historical Conflict of Nations

Navigating Informal Peace Education Programs in Iraq: Challenges, Progress, and Pathways Forward

Iraq has a long history of social unrest, sectarian violence, and ethnic conflict. Various Iraqi governments have used the education system to push their political goals, worsening these internal conflicts. After these difficult times, there is a strong need to create real peace through major changes in education. However, because of Iraq’s violent and divided past, achieving lasting peace through education is a tough challenge. This study looks at Iraq, including the Kurdistan Regional Government, and their efforts to reform the education system since 2003. Despite these efforts, one crucial element is missing: the deliberate inclusion of peace studies in the curriculum. Using a qualitative approach, this research explores Iraq’s attempts to integrate peace education programs into the higher education system. It explains both the strategies used and the challenges faced in implementing peace education. Additionally, this paper highlights possible ways for Iraq to advance peace education at all levels, from primary schools to universities.

The Greek-Turkish Rivalry: A Bayesian VAR Approach

ABSTRACT The persistent Greek-Turkish rivalry has garnered considerable attention among defense economists, prompting an exploration of whether these two nations are locked in an arms race. The longstanding divisions between them are deeply rooted in historical conflict and mutual distrust, and diplomatic efforts aimed at reconciliation have proven largely ineffective, with brief rapprochements typically ending swiftly. Recent discoveries of natural gas in the eastern Mediterranean have exacerbated tensions, leading to military expansion plans that have heightened the risk of escalation. Given the lack of consensus in empirical studies on the relationship between their military expenditures, we employ a linear Bayesian Vector Autoregression (BVAR) modeling approach to explore potential interdependencies among four distinct proxies of the states’ physical arms build-up. Utilizing an annual dataset running from 1960 to 2020, our findings reveal that shocks to one nation’s military expenditure do not significantly affect the opponent’s defense spending. This suggests that contrary to strategies focused on the costly maintenance of strategic balance, these rivals should prioritize cooperation to jointly foster peace and economic development across the broader Mediterranean region.

Historical Dialogue Between France and Algeria to Resolve Historical Conflicts, 1962-2022

Historical Dialogue Between France and Algeria to Resolve Historical Conflicts, 1962-2022

Wallmapu-Araucanía in flames! An historical political ecology of fire in the domination of southern Chile

The conflict over Wallmapu-Araucanía in southern Chile, between the Spanish conquistadores, the Chilean state and the Mapuche peoples, dates from the 16th century, with a key moment being the forced integration of Mapuche land into the Chilean state in the late nineteenth century. This paper discusses this long period of conflict in three moments: conquest, occupation and liberation, and it focuses on the use of fire as a politico-symbolic and techno-productive tool. A ‘landscapes of power framework’ is used for this historical political ecology analysis, based on texts from the nineteenth century to the present. The conclusions point to the historical importance of the use of fire as a tool not only for physical changes in the landscape, but principally as a tool of political symbolism that relates to a history of conflict of terror and displacement, used by the forces of occupation and resistance.

Interventions to promote mental health in the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Palestinian refugees: A scoping review.

The long history of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has resulted in a public and mental health crisis. Despite the significant mental health burdens facing the Palestinian population in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) and refugee camps, this issue remains comprehensively unexplored. This scoping review identified mental health interventions and assessed their effectiveness among populations in the OPT and Palestinian refugee camps, while addressing delivery challenges. A scoping review was conducted using 14 databases to include relevant studies published through March 2024 using PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. Analyzing 31 intervention studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria, revealed varied outcomes in interventions targeting post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and overall mental well-being. While some interventions showed potential, others had limited effectiveness, underscoring the complexity of mental health needs in conflict zones. Gender- and risk-specific effectiveness was observed, emphasizing the need for tailored approaches. Challenges like low attendance rates and systemic barriers hindered intervention success. The profound impact of war on children stresses the urgency for targeted interventions. Empowerment and community connectedness are vital for resilience, along with the importance of family and community involvement and research that balances the need for strong evaluation designs with the need for ongoing mental health services. Advocacy for systemic changes is crucial to implement the complex sustainable interventions necessary to assure mental health in any population. This review highlights the importance of holistic, contextually relevant approaches for mental health intervention in OPT and refugee camps, emphasizing rigorous evaluations and community-driven approaches.

Analisis Pelanggaran Hak Pada Manusia Yang Dilakukan Oleh Organisasi Yang Ada Di Papua

The implementation of human rights in Papua has been a matter of national and international concern for several decades. This prolonged conflict can involve various factors, including government organizations. Violations of this right can be carried out by other organizations in Papua and can have an impact on the local community. Papua has a long history of conflict, armed conflict between the army and separatist groups such as the Papuan Organization which has caused various violations of rights. Not only that, there are also various military operations that can be carried out to control the security situation, which often results in accusations of serious violations of rights. Many efforts were involved in solving this case, namely by using torture and other violence. The existence of this case certainly has various impacts, one of which is that these violations have resulted in psychological trauma, insecurity, and also a decline in the quality of life of the people in Papua. In addition, distrust of the government and security agencies is increasing, exacerbating conflict situations and can also hamper the peace process.