This book provides a comprehensive guide to understanding conflict resolution in today's global world. In the first part, Peter Wallensteen introduces the fields of conflict resolution as they have developed since the end of the Cold War and demonstrates various approaches to conflict analysis and conflict resolution. The core of the book explores three major types of international conflict: inter-state; internal; and state formation conflicts. The final part reviews regional and international approaches to peaceful conflict resolution, notably the UN, discusses the concerns of the major powers in conflict, and outlines pertinent questions for the future.

Understanding Conflict Resolution will be an essential text for all students, teachers and researchers of international and global politics.