The study of conflict is an important theme of the IISS research programme. IISS experts constantly assess current conflicts and write extensively about them. Conflict resolution is also an important aspect of IISS studies. Among the conflicts that have attracted particular attention in IISS work are those in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as longer-term disputes such as those in the Balkans, the Caucasus and Kashmir.
The Armed Conflict Database (ACD) provides regular reports on more than 70 current international and internal conflicts, as well as terrorist campaigns. The ACD is led by Nigel Inkster, Director of Transnational Threats and Political Risk, and is managed by Ms Hanna Ucko, Global Conflict Analyst and ACD Coordinator. The database is an important tool for anyone interested in conflict and conflict management. Updated on a daily basis, the ACD provides regular analyses of developments in each conflict. The wealth of information contained in the database supports assessment of conflict trends.
In 2009, the IISS commenced a research programme on Economics and Conflict Resolution. This is examining the application of economic instruments as part of efforts to resolve conflicts. Among the themes are means to foster local economic solutions in conflict-affected states, the balance between the public and the private sector, and the role of external aid-giving bodies. In addition, this programme is examining the effects of the global financial and economic crisis on international affairs – including the impact on fragile states. The programme is headed by Alexander Nicoll, Director of Editorial. Consulting Senior Fellows for this programme are Dr Mats Berdal, Professor of Security and Development at King’s College London, Stephen Fidler, former Defence and Security Editor of the Financial Times, and Nader Mousavizadeh, a former Executive Director at Goldman Sachs International.
The IISS analyses the changing nature of war, including the recent trends towards insurgency and civil, asymmetric, and complex irregular warfare. The IISS examines the changing actors involved in conflict, including non-state actors ranging from transnational criminal and terror organisations and warlords to private security companies in conflict zones. Colonel Christopher Langton, Senior Fellow for Conflict and Defence Diplomacy, leads the Institute’s work on non-state groups. The Institute’s Defence Analysis Programme examines changing military capabilities, and produces the annual book The Military Balance, of which the Editor is James Hackett. Colonel H.R.McMaster of the US Army is a Consulting Senior Fellow.
Beyond its immediate research agenda and the many IISS publications, the IISS carries out a para-diplomatic function and provides a forum for diplomacy, bilateral meetings, confidence-building measures, and regional cooperation.
IISS provides a comprehensive, up-to-date assessment of all conflicts around the world. Major conflicts, such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan, are the subject of extensive ongoing projects. In addition, more regional, longer-term conflicts, from Sri Lanka and Kashmir to Chechnya and Aceh, are examined.
