Helping to find solutions to global challenges

Colchester: Friday, 23rd July 2010 Working to find solutions to world problems of democracy, governance and conflict resolution is at the heart of a new institute, to be housed on the University of Essex's Knowledge Gateway. A visionary state-of-the-art building is being planned for the Institute for Democracy and Conflict Resolution which will work with a wide range of national and international organisations. The Institute draws on the research, training, and practical expertise developed over the last 40 years at Essex in the areas of democracy, conflict, human rights, justice, and governance, to provide a wide range of activities that will be of interest to policymakers, think tanks, non-governmental organisations, and private companies. Professor Todd Landman, from the University's Department of Government, has been appointed Director of the new Institute, which is planning to stage regular seminars and specialist training activities. These will highlight the importance of fundamental factors needed to achieve justice, prosperity and sustainable development. A key aim of the Institute is to be able to make research findings more accessible, allowing Essex to play a leading, independent role in influencing global developments. 'I am very excited to lead the Institute as it captures the tremendous amount of expertise within the University,' said Professor Landman. 'Essex is particularly well-placed to enhance what it already does to find new audiences, build new relationships, and enhance its presence in the region, Europe, and the world.' The tendering process to design the building is underway, and six leading architectural practices have been shortlisted. The appointment is due to take place in September. Work on the infrastructure for the 40-acre Knowledge Gateway is due to get underway in August. It will provide a new home for research and development and business space in Colchester, and build on the University's diverse outreach initiatives. Pictured: Professor Todd Landman, Director of the new Institute for Democracy and Conflict Resolution.