Dr. Erin McCandless | Politics | Best Researcher Award
Dr. Erin McCandless | Politics – University of Johannesburg, South Africa
Dr. Erin McCandless is a distinguished scholar in the fields of peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and statebuilding. She is known for her innovative research, which intersects the complexities of conflict resolution with social, political, and development challenges. With an extensive academic career, Dr. McCandless has made significant contributions to the development of theories and practices for post-conflict peacebuilding and inclusive governance. Her work has been instrumental in rethinking the role of social contracts in fragile and conflict-affected states, and she has helped bridge the gap between academia and policy, influencing both theoretical discourse and practical peacebuilding strategies worldwide.
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Education:
Dr. McCandless holds an advanced academic background that laid the foundation for her impactful work. She earned her undergraduate degree in social sciences, followed by a graduate degree in conflict resolution and peace studies. She furthered her academic career with a Ph.D. focused on peacebuilding strategies and the evolution of social contracts in post-conflict settings. Her education has not only contributed to her robust understanding of conflict dynamics but also positioned her as a leading expert on sustainable peace initiatives in global conflict zones.
Experience:
Dr. McCandless brings a wealth of experience from both academic and field-based work. Over the years, she has collaborated with prominent scholars, international organizations, and government agencies. She has worked on peacebuilding projects in various regions, notably in Africa, and contributed to the United Nations’ peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts. As the Acting Director at the Qatar-South Africa Centre for Peace at the University of Johannesburg, she has helped shape policies aimed at promoting peace and social cohesion in conflict-affected countries. Her involvement in interdisciplinary peace studies and conflict resolution practices has also positioned her as a sought-after advisor for peace initiatives globally.
Research Interests:
Dr. McCandless’ research interests span a range of topics focused on peacebuilding, governance, and conflict resolution. She has extensively studied the concept of social contracts in fragile states, exploring how inclusive governance and local ownership can promote sustainable peace. Another key area of her research is transformative peacebuilding, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions rather than short-term interventions. She also investigates the role of education in post-conflict recovery and how it can foster a culture of peace and stability. Dr. McCandless is committed to exploring integrated approaches to development and peacebuilding, particularly in settings that experience political instability or armed conflict.
Awards:
Dr. McCandless has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to the field of peacebuilding. Her innovative approaches to peace processes, particularly in fragile and post-conflict societies, have garnered widespread acclaim. Although her career has yet to be officially recognized with a prestigious award such as the Best Researcher Award, her influence on global peacebuilding discourse is immeasurable. Her scholarly work continues to shape both academic literature and policy on peace, development, and governance. She is a respected figure in her field, continuously advancing the understanding of social contracts, inclusion, and conflict transformation in the context of international peacebuilding.
Publications:
Dr. McCandless has authored several seminal publications that have contributed to advancing peacebuilding theory and practice. Her work has been widely cited, influencing both academic research and policy development in conflict-affected regions. Below are key publications by Dr. McCandless:
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“International Peacebuilding and the Emerging Inclusivity Norm”
Third World Quarterly, 38(2), 291-310, 2017
This article explores the evolving norm of inclusivity in international peacebuilding, which has become a central theme in contemporary peacebuilding practices.
Cited by: 105 -
“Polarization and Transformation in Zimbabwe: Social Movements, Strategy Dilemmas, and Change”
Rowman & Littlefield & UKZN Press, 2011
This book analyzes the role of social movements in Zimbabwe, offering insights into their strategies and the challenges of transformation.
Cited by: 100 -
“The Role of Education in Peacebuilding: Literature Review”
UNICEF, 2011
A comprehensive review of the role education plays in fostering peace in post-conflict societies, aimed at promoting social cohesion.
Cited by: 88 -
“Wicked Problems in Peacebuilding and Statebuilding: Making Progress in Measuring Progress through the New Deal”
Global Governance, 19, 227, 2013
A study examining the complexities of peacebuilding metrics and the New Deal framework for fragile states.
Cited by: 48 -
“Forging Resilient Social Contracts: A Pathway to Preventing Violent Conflict and Sustaining Peace”
United Nations Development Programme, 2018
This report emphasizes the importance of building resilient social contracts to prevent violent conflict in fragile regions.
Cited by: 34 -
“Resilient Social Contracts and Peace: Towards a Needed Reconceptualization”
Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding, 14(1), 1-21, 2020
A theoretical paper revisiting the concept of the social contract and its role in fostering peace in post-conflict and fragile states.
Cited by: 30 -
“Sustaining Peace One Day at a Time: Inclusion, Transition Crises, and the Resilience of Social Contracts”
Journal of Intervention and Statebuilding, 14(1), 119-138, 2020
An article discussing the need for sustained and inclusive peacebuilding approaches to address the challenges of transitional societies.
Cited by: 24
Conclusion:
Dr. Erin McCandless is a pivotal figure in the field of peacebuilding, with a profound influence on both academic research and policy development. Her interdisciplinary approach and focus on the integration of peacebuilding practices into broader development and governance strategies have made her a leader in the field. Dr. McCandless’ contributions, particularly in the areas of social contracts, education, and transformative peacebuilding, continue to shape global peace efforts. Given her influential publications, experience in the field, and commitment to advancing peacebuilding theory and practice, Dr. McCandless is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work continues to inspire the next generation of scholars and practitioners dedicated to fostering sustainable peace in conflict-affected regions worldwide.