Core Team

Dr Ronit Berger-Hobson, Professor Mike Bourne, Professor Kieran McEvoy, Dr Andrew Thomson

Theme members are engaged in diverse critical studies on political violence, terrorism and counter-terrorism.  The legacy of the Northern Ireland and Colombian conflicts, the post 9/11 War on Terror, the rise of groups such as ISIS, far right violence, cyber-terrorism, state counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency strategies – these and other themes are all focused on by Mitchell Institute Fellows working in this field.  In addition to historical and contemporary analysis on the ideology, strategies and tactics of violent groups and the efforts of states to counter (and sometimes encourage) such activities, we also look at how some armed groups can be held accountable for past actions.  Our work is premised on the view that a better understanding of the historical evolution, causes, and consequences of political violence as well as a critical approach to government security strategies is required in order seek to resolve conflict and prevent future violence.