International Diplomacy: Institutions, Actors, and Practice Course

Explore the art and science of international diplomacy through undergraduate and graduate courses, focusing on Eurasia and Africa. Using case studies and simulations, these courses prepare students for careers in diplomacy, global governance, and international relations.

Undergraduate Course (Bachelor’s Level)

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of international diplomacy, from bilateral negotiations to multilateral institutions. Through seminars and case studies, students examine diplomatic practices, crisis response, and statecraft, with a focus on Eurasia and Africa.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the historical development and institutions of diplomacy.
• Identify key actors, practices, and norms in global diplomacy.
• Analyse diplomatic strategies and outcomes in global cases.
• Develop skills in policy brief writing and negotiation simulation.

Assessment

• Class Participation (25%): Engage in discussions and group exercises.
• Case Study Report (25%): 1,500-word analysis of a diplomatic event (e.g., Ukraine crisis). Due Week 8.
• Final Essay (50%): 3,000-word essay on diplomatic strategy (e.g., EU-Africa diplomacy). Due Week 11.

Structure

1. What is Diplomacy?: Explores definitions, history, and functions of diplomacy.
2. The Evolution of the Diplomatic System: Traces diplomacy from Westphalia to the UN.
3. Bilateral Diplomacy and Embassies: Examines state-to-state relations.
4. Multilateral Diplomacy: Studies the UN, regional organizations, and summits.
5. Diplomacy in Practice: Covers negotiation techniques and protocol.
6. Crisis Diplomacy: Analyses cases like Ukraine and infrastructure crises.
7. Economic and Trade Diplomacy: Focuses on trade agreements and African partnerships.
8. Cultural and Public Diplomacy: Explores soft power strategies.
9. Non-State Actors and NGOs: Examines their diplomatic roles.
10. Digital Diplomacy and the Future: Investigates cyber threats and digital tools.
11. Simulation – Negotiating a Climate Agreement: Simulates multilateral talks.

Graduate Course (Master’s Level)

This advanced course critically examines diplomacy as a strategic tool in global governance, exploring institutions, theories, and conflict dynamics. Through seminars, simulations, and research, students analyse diplomatic strategies in Eurasia and Africa, developing solutions for complex global challenges.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically analyse diplomacy’s strategic role in international relations.
• Assess the effectiveness of diplomatic approaches across regions.
• Evaluate institutional constraints and opportunities in diplomacy.
• Apply theoretical and practical tools to diplomatic simulations.

Assessment

• Class Participation (25%): Contribute to seminars and simulations.
• Case Study Report (25%): 2,000-word policy brief on a diplomatic issue (e.g., UN mediation). Due Week 8.
• Final Essay (50%): 5,000-word research paper on diplomatic strategy (e.g., EU-Africa relations). Due Week 11.

Structure

1. Diplomacy in IR Theory: Examines realism, liberalism, and constructivism.
2. Historical Shifts in Diplomatic Practice: Traces empires to global governance.
3. Institutional Diplomacy: Studies the UN system and global forums.
4. Power, Norms, and Multilateral Strategy: Analyses diplomatic influence.
5. Diplomacy and Conflict: Explores mediation and peacebuilding in Eurasia.
6. Great Power Diplomacy: Focuses on the US, China, EU, and African ties.
7. Small States and Middle Powers: Examines their negotiation roles.
8. Transnational and Sub-State Diplomacy: Studies cities and civil society.
9. Strategic Communication and Soft Power: Investigates narrative strategies.
10. Future Diplomacy: Explores AI, climate governance, and cyber threats.
11. Capstone Simulation – Global Governance Crisis: Simulates diplomatic strategy.