This short, asynchronous online course introduces conflict as a social phenomenon shaped by power relations, inequality, and communication practices. Participants will distinguish interpersonal disagreement from conflict dynamics embedded in institutional structures, and identify how authority, norms, and unequal access to voice shape everyday situations of tension. Through concise input units and guided individual reflection tasks, learners will analyse conflict scenarios, reflect on their own positionality, and apply principles of ethical and conflict-sensitive communication. In doing so, the course prepares students to engage more effectively with diverse communities by strengthening critical awareness and responsible interaction—key competences for participation in community-based initiatives such as Living Labs and societal dialogue formats. The course is suitable for undergraduate and graduate students from all disciplines and requires no prior knowledge.

EUPeace is the European University for Peace, Justice, and Inclusive Societies. It is only too obvious that these values are fragile and heavily contested in Europe and all over the world. Our mission is to help future generations of citizens and policy-makers and provide them with the skills, knowledge, and experience to cultivate Peace, Justice, and Inclusive Societies. In order to achieve this, EUPeace focuses on a fruitful societal dialogue, reflecting the third mission of universities to engage with and contribute to society. By offering flexible and elective Soft Skill micro-courses on a wide range of topics, from critical thinking and intercultural awareness to problem-solving and mediation, EUPeace invests in capacities that transcend disciplinary boundaries. These Soft Skill courses for students, staff, and beyond, are designed to strengthen the competences needed for inclusive, ethical, and peace-oriented community engagement.