The conflict cluster at ISS was launched to fill this gap. Researchers from different disciplines seek solutions to the causes of conflict and strategies for peace. They address gender, class, religion, ethnicity and other lines of inequality that can generate conflict. Their research into the dynamics of conflct, at national, regional, local or intra-household levels, places global processes of change centre stage.

The cluster has an integrated programme of activities. It aims to have at least two major research proposals up and running within two years. Publications, workshops and seminars will keep conflict high on the agenda, and a major conference is planned for early 2009. Students at ISS are participating in the cluster’s activities, taking an active part in both the research and the organisation of the events.

ISS is also seeking to collaborate with other institutes and organisations in the Netherlands and abroad. It is negotiating with the UN Social Science Research Council on setting up a Global Centre for Research on Gender, Crisis Prevention and Recovery.