The study of conflict, security, and international political economy is an integral part of the Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) syllabus. This field examines the dynamics of conflicts, the maintenance of security, and the economic interactions between states in the global arena. Understanding these concepts is crucial for analyzing and predicting global politics and the behavior of states.


Conflict is a central theme in the study of international relations. It refers to the competition, disagreement, or struggle between actors in the international system. The PSIR syllabus covers various aspects of conflict, including:

- Causes of conflict: Understanding the underlying factors that lead to conflicts between states, such as power struggles, territorial disputes, ideological differences, and resource scarcity.
- Conflict resolution: Analyzing various methods and strategies used to resolve conflicts, including diplomacy, negotiation, mediation, international organizations, and peacekeeping operations.
- Types of conflict: Exploring different types of conflicts, such as interstate conflicts, civil wars, ethnic conflicts, and terrorism, and their implications for international security.


Security is a foundational concept in international relations, and the PSIR syllabus delves into its multidimensional nature. It includes:

- National security: Examining the measures taken by states to protect their sovereignty, territory, and citizens from external threats, such as military aggression, terrorism, and cyber attacks.
- Human security: Analyzing the protection of individuals from various forms of violence, including poverty, disease, environmental degradation, and human rights abuses.
- Collective security: Studying the principles and mechanisms of collective security, such as alliances, arms control treaties, and international institutions like the United Nations, aimed at maintaining peace and preventing conflicts at the global level.


International Political Economy focuses on the intersection of politics and economics in the global arena. The PSIR syllabus covers several dimensions of IPE, including:

- Global economic governance: Analyzing the role of international organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank in shaping global economic policies, trade agreements, and development assistance.
- Economic globalization: Understanding the integration of national economies through trade, investment, and financial flows, and examining its impact on states, markets, and societies.
- Economic interdependence: Exploring the interconnections between states' economies and the implications for conflict and cooperation, as well as the role of economic factors in shaping international relations.


The study of conflict, security, and international political economy in the PSIR syllabus provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex dynamics that shape global politics. It equips students with the analytical tools to analyze conflicts, evaluate security measures, and comprehend the interplay between economics and politics at the international level. These insights are crucial for policymakers, diplomats, and scholars seeking to navigate and comprehend the intricacies of the contemporary world order.