The Center for Peace Studies (CPS) will adopt a robust, multi-pronged, and interdisciplinary methodology to achieve its vision and mission. Our approach will integrate rigorous academic inquiry with practical policy relevance, ensuring that our outputs are both intellectually sound and actionable.
1. Research Methodology
- Qualitative Approach: The research will emphasize in-depth qualitative insights through case studies, expert interviews, focus groups, and historical analysis. This will provide nuanced understandings of the complex dynamics, actors, and contextual factors shaping peace and conflict.
- Quantitative Approach: Complementing qualitative studies, quantitative methods will enable systematic data analysis—particularly for initiatives like the Strategic Peace Index (SPI). This will include primary survey data and extensive secondary data from credible national and international sources to identify trends, patterns, and correlations in peace and security challenges.
- Mixed-Method Approach: A combined mixed-methods design will integrate qualitative findings with quantitative measures (e.g., SPI indicators), ensuring both empirical rigor and contextual depth.
- Interdisciplinary Analysis: The research will draw on political science, peace and conflict studies, international relations, political economy, environmental peacebuilding, and sociology to generate holistic insights and policy-relevant outcomes.
2. Policy Engagement and Dissemination Approach
- Evidence-Based Policy Guidance: Policy recommendations will be grounded in rigorous research findings and presented in clear, concise, and actionable formats for governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.
- Targeted Dissemination: Outputs will include annual flagship reports (e.g., Strategic Peace Index Report), policy briefs, and working papers, to be disseminated to ministries, media, international organizations, and the broader public.
- Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue: The Center will organize dialogues, seminars, roundtables, international conferences, and webinars—on national, regional, and global issues (e.g., Indo-Pacific Strategy and Bangladesh, Rohingya Crisis)—to foster collaboration and promote shared understanding among policymakers, civil society, academia, and international partners.
3. Capacity Building and Training Approach
- Interdisciplinary Training Programs: The Center will design and deliver short courses and certificate programs on peacebuilding, strategic analysis, conflict resolution, and climate security, tailored for practitioners, policymakers, and students.
- Fellowships and Internships: Youth, particularly NSU students, will be engaged through structured fellowships and research internships, providing hands-on research experience, skill-building, and mentorship.
- Curriculum Development: The Center will continuously develop and update training modules, incorporating cutting-edge research findings and evolving policy needs.
This comprehensive approach ensures that the Center for Peace Studies will not only produce high-quality academic outputs but also translate knowledge into tangible impact, contributing effectively to peace and security outcomes.