Navigating Research Challenges in Conflict Studies: Political, Methodological, and Ethical Dilemmas

Session Submission Type: Roundtable

Brief Description

Researching conflicts presents scholars with a unique set of methodological, ethical, and practical challenges. This roundtable brings together researchers working on various aspects of conflict studies to discuss the difficulties they encounter and strategies for overcoming them. Participants will reflect on navigating restricted access to sources, dealing with politically sensitive topics, addressing ethical concerns related to fieldwork and human subjects, and adapting research methodologies in dynamic and often volatile environments. By sharing personal experiences and insights, panelists will explore how scholars can critically engage with contested narratives, mitigate biases, and ensure responsible and rigorous research.

Sub Unit

• History: Since 1990

Chair

• Alexander Agadjanian, Yerevan State U (Armenia)

Roundtable Speakers

• Timothy K. Blauvelt, American Councils for International Education / Ilia State U (Georgia)

• Ashkhen Hakobyan, Yerevan State U (Armenia)

• Stefan B. Kirmse, Leibniz-Zentrum Moderner Orient (Germany)

• Norihiro Naganawa, Hokkaido U (Japan)

• Naira E Sahakyan, American U Armenia (Armenia)