DOI
10.1016/j.procs.2012.09.027

Summary
The paper explores the notion of complex regional conflicts from the point of view of complexity theory. According to the authors, complexity in conflicts relates to a strong resistance to any kind of resolutions and presents socially, economically and politically sophisticated issues to be dealt with. In this article, it is noted that, although the innate nature of complexity in conflicts has been recognized, current methodologies often do not make use of the System-of-Systems concept to address the dynamics of the inter-connectedness in complex conflicts. To overcome this issue, the paper proposes the integration of different methodologies (e.g. Critical System Heuristics, Team Syntegrity, etc.) in order to foster the realization of sustainable outcomes leading to stability in regions.

Relevance for Complex Systems Knowledge
As the article presents different models and concepts based on complex systems thinking, it provides relevant support in the identification of current complex systems practices in the field of IR, political science and conflict analysis/resolution. Moreover, the paper conceptualizes conflicts in the post-Cold War era, as a complex interaction of multiple systems and subsystems, which may cause far reaching (in space and time) effects. These systems are identified in the following 4 networks: military, political, economic and social. This idea, provides an interesting basis of analysis for future researches, the authors also propose a new process based on complex systems thinking to address protracted international disputes.

Point of Strength
It presents several examples;
It provides a new model of analysis;
It establishes the sources of complexity within conflicts.