Following the hypotheses that comparing different attempts at generating peace within a given intrastate conflict is a useful endeavour and secondly that contemporary academic research on peace...Show moreFollowing the hypotheses that comparing different attempts at generating peace within a given intrastate conflict is a useful endeavour and secondly that contemporary academic research on peace agreements fails to adequately assess the process leading to the fabrication of negative peace, this research will consist of two sections. Firstly, it shall introduce the new phases-of-peace model. A theoretical framework which goes beyond the reach of the overarching theories of peace and takes into account the full range of events which precede the signing of a peace agreement. Secondly it will apply this model to the Colombian case in order to extract valuable lessons by comparing the Pastrana and Santos peace negotiations. The ultimate aim of this research is to utilize the phases-of-peace model to highlight which factors changed between the negotiations and what role they played in the outcome of the negotiations.Show less
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has redirected the attention of scholars and political analysts towards the often-forgotten frozen conflicts, now, consolidated into functioning de facto states in...Show moreThe ongoing conflict in Ukraine has redirected the attention of scholars and political analysts towards the often-forgotten frozen conflicts, now, consolidated into functioning de facto states in the Post-Soviet region. The recent opening of the official diplomatic representation of Transnistria in Moscow has sparked a series of questions regarding the intentions of the de facto state and its patron, Russia. While other de facto states, such as Abkhazia and South Ossetia have been recognised and have established official diplomatic missions in Moscow since 2008, the PMR is only taking these steps now. These developments point to a new chapter for Transnistria and raise questions regarding the statehood of the de facto state. This thesis seeks to uncover the overarching mechanisms which foster the development of de facto statehood. Considering the ‘renewal’ of negotiations in the ‘5+2’ format and the declared progress made in in terms of the ‘policy of small steps’ in Transnistria, this is a good place to start. Hence, this thesis aims to explore the causal link between peace processes and de facto statehood.Show less
