The evolution of the field of peace and conflict studies parallels a paradigm shift following the end of World War II.  The inadequacy of coercive strategies and power-based theories to respond to the changing dynamics of contemporary conflicts led to systemic theory building and analysis that continues to expand the breadth and redefine the scope of the conflict resolution field.  This process has resulted in a multi-disciplinary approach to peacebuilding, conflict analysis and resolution.

Concomitant with the evolving nature of peace and conflict studies, there is a need for all involved to reassess its overall focus, reflect upon its academic conceptions and the lessons from practice, in further shaping the field.  In recognition of the significant role and responsibilities of academic institutions in contributing to theories and practices in the field while shaping the ways in which we perceive, and interact with one another, the Conflict Resolution Program at the Monterey Institute for International Studies (MIIS) introduces The Pathfinder: A Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, an annual peer-reviewed journal written and edited by the students of the Monterey Institute for International Studies.  

The Pathfinder publishes research papers that further the understanding of conflict by evaluating and challenging existing methods for preventing and ending violence.  It also examines and proposes innovative approaches to building peace.  Research articles in the journal explore issues such as identity, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, human rights, non-violence, social change, social justice, social movements, human and environmental security, sustainable development, governance and democracy.   

Consistent with the multi-disciplinary approach of the field, The Pathfinder’s featured sections provide a forum by which students may speak as individuals, members of varied gender, racial, ethnic, or religious groups, as well as from different cultural backgrounds, geographic areas, or academic disciplines.  These sections include Stories of War and Peace, Reports from the Field, Book and Film Reviews, Why Study Conflict Resolution? and Exploring Meanings which provides a forum to discuss current issues and events.  Every issue of The Pathfinder also includes a conceptual paper from the field translated into one of the languages offered by the Translation and Interpretation School of the Institute.

The Pathfinder was founded in the fall of 2008 by Dr. Pushpa Iyer, Assistant Professor and Coordinator of the Conflict Resolution Program at the Institute's School of International Policy Studies who also serves as the faculty advisor to the journal. Yasasvin Nandish Wijetilleke, a 2008 graduate of the MAIPS program at MIIS and specializing in conflict resolution, served as the editor-in-chief along with Dr. Iyer for the first issue.