David Connolly

Professor of Practice

Email:-

Room:- E2.06

Phone:- +44(0)2476 150547

Profile

My work sits at the intersection of evidence, policy, and practice within international peacebuilding and development. My primary interests include assessing the impact of mediation processes, primary education in post-conflict settings, and community-driven development.

As a practitioner, I lead evaluation, research, and learning initiatives that enable organisations to make informed decisions, demonstrate measurable impact, and adapt within complex and fragile environments.

Since 2000, I have directed programmes for organisations based in The Hague, Washington, D.C., and Berlin. Additionally, I have worked in over 15 conflict-affected countries, collaborating with development agencies, international NGOs, philanthropic foundations, and community organisations to strengthen strategy, improve implementation, and demonstrate results.

My teaching aims to foster critical thinking and practical skills, encouraging students to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world challenges. I emphasise collaborative learning and interdisciplinary perspectives to prepare students for impactful careers in the field.

I have taught postgraduate courses in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, and the United States. At the University of York, I co-founded and led the MSc in International Humanitarian Affairs and convened the MA in Post-war Recovery Studies.

My research has received support from the Dutch Research Council, the British Council, UNICEF, Education Above All, and the U.S. Department of State. I write for both academic and practitioner audiences, publishing in journals such as Comparative Education and Civil Wars, and contributing commentary to platforms including openSecurity.