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Unconventional and Emerging Threats in Modern Conflict
9 students
Unconventional and Emerging Threats in Modern Conflict
Understanding Modern Threats and Countermeasures for a Safer World
Created byBenedict Kioko Mwololo
Last updated 1/2026
English
What you'll learn
- Analyze the history, mechanisms, and impacts of bioweapons, chemical weapons, and radiological devices.
- Evaluate the roles of state-sponsored and independent terrorism in deploying weapons of mass disruption.
- Understand the legal and ethical challenges of countering these threats.
- Apply interdisciplinary strategies to improve detection, response, and mitigation efforts.
- Anticipate future trends and develop proactive strategies for addressing emerging threats.
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Course content
8 sections • 22 lectures • 3h 16m total length
Requirements
- No Prerequisites Needed • This course is open to all learners, regardless of their educational or professional background. • No prior knowledge of biology, chemistry, radiology, or terrorism studies is required.
- While anyone can enroll, the course may be particularly valuable for: • Professionals in Security and Defense: Military personnel, law enforcement officers, or national security advisors. • Public Health Practitioners: Emergency response coordinators, epidemiologists, and public health officials involved in biodefense. • Policy-Makers and Diplomats: Individuals involved in international relations, peacekeeping, or policy-making roles. • Academics and Students: Learners pursuing studies in international relations, security studies, or public policy. • Crisis Managers: Professionals responsible for managing emergencies in corporate or government settings.
Description
In an increasingly interconnected and volatile world, the threat of unconventional weapons—whether biological, chemical, or radiological—has grown into one of the most pressing security challenges of our time. This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge and critical insights needed to understand, analyze, and address these complex threats.
Why This Course Matters
Modern conflicts have evolved beyond traditional battlefield engagements. Today, weapons of mass disruption are being deployed not just by state actors, but also by non-state entities such as terrorist organizations and independent networks. These weapons are designed to create fear, chaos, and destruction, often with devastating psychological and societal effects.
The course addresses the following critical questions:
What are bioweapons, chemical weapons, dirty bombs, and radiological devices?
How have these weapons been used historically, and what lessons can we draw from past incidents?
What are the ethical, legal, and practical challenges in detecting, mitigating, and responding to such threats?
How can interdisciplinary strategies involving national security, public health, law enforcement, and policy-making help counter these threats?
What You Will Learn
Throughout the course, you will gain:
A historical perspective on bioweapons and chemical attacks, with case studies like the Tokyo sarin attack and anthrax incidents.
Insights into the mechanisms, detection technologies, and delivery systems used for these weapons.
A deeper understanding of state-sponsored versus independent terrorism and their use of weapons of mass disruption.
A critical appreciation of the ethical and legal frameworks such as the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) and the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
Awareness of emerging threats and future trends, from advancements in technology to the role of cyber capabilities in amplifying terror.
This course was designed and delivered by Brigadier (Rtd.) Benedict Kioko Mwololo, drawing on 37 years of distinguished military service, deep expertise in conflict, defense and security studies, and hands-on experience in global strategic analysis. His experience include leadership roles in UN peacekeeping, aviation, and defense education at the National Defence University–Kenya. To ensure structural coherence and pedagogical clarity, AI tools were used in the development phase to assist with drafting outlines and assessment questions. All content has been rigorously reviewed, fact-checked, and personalized by the instructor—anchored in verified data, field experience, and strategic analysis. No AI-generated voice, video, or unvetted material is used.
Who this course is for:
- Who Should Join? This course is ideal for: • Beginners: Those with no background in the field but an interest in learning about modern threats. • Mid-Career Professionals: Individuals looking to expand their expertise in security, public health, or policy-making. • Aspiring Leaders: People preparing for leadership roles in high-stakes environments.