About

A tradition of excellence, and a continuing commitment to cutting-edge research


The Centre for the Study of Security and Development (CSSD) is a multi-disciplinary network of scholars, working together to explore the complex intersections of security and development.

There has been a growing recognition among scholars and policy-makers that security and development are interconnected parts of a much broader and more complex web of global phenomena, which strain the capacity of national governments to provide for the collective autonomy, safety, prosperity, and well-being of citizens. Conflict within and between states tears the social fabric, causes dislocation and refugee crises, and disrupts trade and investment. Poverty and inequality create tensions within societies which may spur terrorism, communal violence or civil war. Environmental disruptions trigger conflicts over natural resources and the spread of disease across national boundaries.

The CSSD is dedicated to increasing our understanding of these complex challenges and inform the development of new policies and institutions to meet them. Our diverse community of fellows brings to bear expertise from a variety of academic disciplines, including Political Science, History, Sociology, and Law, as well as experience in government service, the military, and other fields.

The Centre is designed to foster and maintain network connections between experts, facilitate research collaboration, help secure and administer grants and contracts, host conferences and outreach activities, and publish and promote the results of this work, in print and on-line. The CSSD works closely with other organizations on campus, including the Jean Monnet European Union Centre of Excellence (JMEUCE), the MacEachen Institute, and The Dallaire Institute.

The CSSD supports graduate students connected with Political Science and other departments at Dalhousie, but it is not a degree-granting program. Those interested in graduate studies at Dalhousie should consult the Graduate Studies calendar. Application forms can be downloaded from the Registrar’s Office.