This course explores the reconstruction of public health as a central factor for domestic and international actors to address in postwar transitions. First, we will examine how violence on the battlefield has direct and indirect effects on the health of individuals in the postwar era. War directly affects individuals overall well-being, ranging from the physical traumas suffered to the emergence of infectious diseases and mental problems. Civilians and soldiers alike suffer the short-term risks of morbidity and mortality when they cannot access basic nutrition, water, or health services. The next part of the course turns to the indirect effects, that the conflict has likely diminished or eliminated the underlying social systems and institutions that provided the population with basic health care services. The long-term costs include the diversion of essential resources to the fight and the massive rebuilding costs of the infrastructure to promote basic health outcomes. Finally, the course will consider whether the provision of public health and the attending professionals can reduce the likelihood of a return to violence. Examples covered in the course will include Syria, the former Yugoslavia, Uganda, and Sierra Leone.

In the course, students will critically assess various theoretical and policy perspectives to address the health consequences of fighting to arrive at a broader understanding of possible intervention strategies to restore a society’s well being.

Course Requirements:

INTLSTD 401 has no testing components. All assignments are written papers and will be submitted via Canvas throughout the semester.

Intended Audience:

International Studies Majors and Minors

Class Format:

We will have biweekly discussion sessions that require participation in various conversations. The course will also include short videos for students to watch at their convenience, prior to certain discussions and assignments.