Students given unique opportunity to contribute to global research

Essex politics students were given the unique opportunity to not just study their subject – but to actually contribute to crucial research.

During their final undergraduate year, the three students were able to contribute to global peacekeeping research led by Professor Ismene Gizelis, from our Department of Government.

Her latest research - which focuses on the dividends of peacekeeping - is transforming how we understand post-conflict recovery and sustainable development.

As part of the project, Essex students Anastasios Stavrou, Costas Risopoulos and Mamadi Konde worked as research assistants, contributing to a new Peace Dividend Matrix that compares outcomes across the key areas of human development, governmental capacity and political inclusion and gender equality.

Working with real UN data, the students had to undergo rigorous training to learn about UN missions and understand the documents so they could classify then into specific categories efficiently.

The innovative project has provided evidence to inform better peacekeeping policies for the UN, EU and African Union.

One of the students, Anastasios Stavrou, who is now studying for a Masters in Conflict Resolution at Essex, said: “Working on this project has been an invaluable experience for me, allowing me to gain not only practical skills but also deep insights into the workings of high-level research and international operations. It significantly enhanced my understanding of how research is conducted at the highest standards.”

He added: “Overall, being part of this project has been both a challenge and a privilege. It tested and refined my critical analysis abilities while expanding my knowledge of operational mandates, international policy, and research practice in ways that will undoubtedly benefit my future work.”

“This is an excellent example of how we put research-led teaching into action at Essex,” explained Professor Gizelis. “The whole experience was satisfying in many ways. Having a multigenerational group - early career researchers with a PhD, PhD students at different stages of their journey, PGTs with advanced specialist skills and curious undergraduates - makes a large project come alive and creates a unique environment where research and skills training are interlinked and mutually benefit each other.”

She added: “Ultimately, having young, promising scholars engaging with and implementing my ideas is fulfilling and defines what it means to be an academic, a mentor and a scholar. It is moments like these that research becomes holistic and transcending.”

Reflecting on the project, Costas Risopoulos, who is now studying for a Masters in Government and Political Science at University of Glasgow, added: “By systematically coding peacekeeping events, I developed strong skills in conflict analysis and gained a deeper understanding of local dynamics in the DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo).”

Mamadi Konde, who is now studying for a Masters in International Relations and Affairs at Kings College London, added: “Working on this project taught me focus, professionalism and teamwork - skills that will stay with me throughout my career.”