This thoroughly revised edition of Peter Wallensteen's text provides a comprehensive guide to understanding conflict resolution in the contemporary global environment. Understanding Conflict Resolution draws on recent and classic research from around the world, linking the theory of conflict resolution to in-depth case studies throughout. The first part reviews the development of conflict resolution since the Cold War and demonstrates the various approaches to conflict analysis. The core of the book explores the settlement of three major types of international conflict: inter-state, internal and those arising from state formation. In the final part, regional and international approaches are examined, and questions posed regarding the future of conflict resolution. This new edition has been brought fully up to date with coverage of the ongoing 'war on terror', as well as events in Sudan, Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Part Three considers the developments in UN reform and the increasing importance of civil society organizations. Understanding Conflict Resolution remains an essential text for all students, lecturers and researchers of peace and conflict resolution in international relations, global politics and political science.