The “Byblos Autumn School” covered two main areas of research: the theoretical part dealt with the causes of ethnic conflict as well as modes of conflict regulation, an the empirical part probed into case studies of ethnic conflict and different patterns of conflict regulation ranging from power-sharing to decentralization. The international dimension and the increasingly complex role of trans-national factors in ethnic conflict and conflict resolution were also highlighted. Conflicts in South Eastern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America were thoroughly explored and discussed. Comparative perspectives and future prospects for each conflict were also raised.

Works groups followed by plenary sessions whose purpose was to elucidates some controversial key questions took place. In these works groupes, participants addressed mainly the successes and limitations of power-sharing, decentralization, federation, and conflict-management within a unitary state. The last day was devoted to simulation exercices session which revolved around conflict genesis and preventatives interventions. An evolution session which exposed the findings of the conference was finally held.