Ph.D. in Conflict Analysis and Resolution
The Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution
Notice of Oral Defense of Doctoral Dissertation
Ami C. Carpenter
Master of Communication Studies, New Mexico State University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with Honors
Rendering Idea into Practice: Development Assistance and Conflict Prevention in Guatemala
Abstract:
This dissertation describes the emergence of conflict prevention as a new norm in development policy and practice, and the commensurate use of conflict assessments to mainstream a preventive lens (conflict analysis) in the design and implementation of development programs at United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Guatemala. Field research, review of internal documents and a literature review were conducted over two years at USAID and UNDP headquarters in Washington DC and New York respectively, and at mission offices in Guatemala, to trace the impact of a conflict assessment conducted at respective mission offices three months apart in 2002. This research finds that that not only implementation, but the recommended changes themselves are based on the stewardship of norm advocates (actors) and the degree to which conflict prevention fits with pre-existing ideas (structure). Ultimately, implemented preventive practices fit with the pre-existing priorities, agendas, and interests of each organization rather than transforming them.
Dennis Sandole, Ph.D., Institute for Conflict Analysis & Resolution, GMU
Peter Mandaville, Ph.D., Political Science, GMU
10:30 am
Truland Building., Room 555
George Mason University, Arlington Campus
A copy of this doctoral dissertation is on reserve at the Johnson center library. Another copy is also available for examination in the ICAR resource room. All members of the George Mason Community are invited to attend.
