The “conflict volcano”: methodological proposition for conflict analysis Azamat Temirkulov Dr Azamat Temirkulov is an Assistant Professor, based at American University in Central Asia, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Abstract Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to suggest to the conflict study scholars a new instrument – the “conflict volcano” that could be an effective and appropriate tool for conflict analysis. Design/methodology/approach – The “conflict volcano” model was designed as a qualitative method for conflict analysis with a focus on cause analysis. It was developed on the basis of “conflict tree” which underwent modifications. Findings – The benefit of the “conflict volcano” is that it covers all aspects of conflict starting from root cause to catalysts and can reveal a wide range of causes: material, immaterial, institutional. It clearly frames factors; this helps practitioners to determine what should be considered as causes and effects. Moreover, the “conflict volcano” reflects major theoretical representations of the conflict and its aspects. While the “conflict volcano” model can study conflict phases from latent until open violence, it cannot reflect the dynamic of conflict and cannot demonstrate its evolution to post-conflict phases. Practical implications – The “conflict volcano” can be used as a conflict analysis tool by practicing experts and scholars. Academicians can use it in order to understand conflict and especially to reveal its causes. Practicing experts can use it in order to design a conflict transformation strategy. Originality/value – This instrument does not pretend to be a new invention in the field of conflict studies, but rather a new conceptualization, schematization of old concepts and instruments. Keywords Conflict transformation, Conflict analysis tools, Conflict study methodology Paper type Research paper 1. Introduction Conflict studies became a separate scientific discipline in the second half of the twentieth century. It is still in its formative stage in terms of being a scientific subject regarding in particular its concepts and methodology. Conflict studies have mainly adapted research methods originally created for other social sciences. Nevertheless, despite the fact that it is a relatively young discipline, conflict studies have also advanced in the development of its own specific methodology and analysis instruments. Methodological manuals for conflict studies suggest different instruments for conflict analysis, e.g. “conflict layer,” “conflict mapping,” “conflict phases,” “conflict tree” (Fisher et al., 2000; Leonhardt, 2001; UNDG/ECHA, 2004; SIDA, 2006). Some of these instruments were adapted to conflict studies from other fields such as management and as such sometimes possess their initial specificity. There are also a limited number of instruments to address some aspects of conflict studies; for example, conflict causes. The lack of instruments specially designed for conflict studies may limit experts’ analytical opportunities. The purpose of this paper is to propose an instrument that is effective and appropriate for conflict cause analysis. Its methodology is based on the author’s experience in scientific research and development projects in conflict zones from 2003 to 2012. Scientific research, conflict analysis missions for state institutions and IO’s are sources of practical material for the The author wishes to thank: Peace and Development Program, UNDP, Kyrgyzstan, for financial and technical support in initial elaboration of the “conflict volcano” model; Prof Dr Michael Brzoska and Dr Anna Kreikemeyer for their consideration, support and advice. DOI 10.1108/JACPR-08-2013-0017 VOL. 6 NO. 2 2014, pp. 99-115, C Emerald Group Publishing Limited, ISSN 1759-6599 j JOURNAL OF AGGRESSION, CONFLICT AND PEACE RESEARCH j PAGE 99