Undergraduate Course (Bachelor’s Level)
This course introduces undergraduate students to the fundamentals of international diplomacy. It explores the history, institutions, and key concepts of diplomatic practice, from bilateral negotiations to multilateral institutions. The course uses case studies to examine how diplomacy operates in global governance, crisis response, and statecraft.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the historical development of diplomacy and its institutional foundations.
- Identify the key actors, practices, and norms in contemporary diplomacy.
- Analyse diplomatic strategies and negotiation outcomes in specific global cases.
- Develop basic skills in writing policy briefs and simulating negotiations.
Assessment
Class Participation (25%), Case Study Report (25%), Final Essay (50%)
Structure
- What is Diplomacy? Definitions, History, and Functions
- The Evolution of the Diplomatic System: From Westphalia to the UN
- Bilateral Diplomacy and the Role of Embassies
- Multilateral Diplomacy: The UN, Regional Organisations, and Summits
- Diplomacy in Practice: Negotiation Techniques and Protocol
- Crisis Diplomacy: Case Studies from the Cold War to Ukraine
- Economic and Trade Diplomacy
- Cultural and Public Diplomacy: Soft Power in Action
- The Diplomatic Role of Non-State Actors and International NGOs
- Digital Diplomacy and the Future of Foreign Service
- Simulation – Negotiating a Multilateral Climate Agreement
Graduate Course (Master’s Level)
This graduate-level course provides an advanced examination of diplomacy as a strategic practice and a tool of global governance. It investigates the evolution of diplomatic institutions, theories of negotiation and representation, and the intersection of diplomacy with conflict, development, and normative influence. The course draws on historical and contemporary case studies to explore the role of diplomacy in shaping global order.
Learning Outcomes
- Critically analyse the strategic dimensions of diplomacy in international relations.
- Assess the effectiveness of different diplomatic approaches across regions and issue areas.
- Understand the institutional constraints and opportunities faced by modern diplomats.
- Apply theoretical and practical tools to simulate real-world diplomatic challenges.
Assessment
Class Participation (25%), Case Study Report (25%), Final Essay (50%)
- Diplomacy in International Relations Theory: Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism
- Historical Shifts in Diplomatic Practice: Empires, Nation-States, and Global Governance
- Institutional Diplomacy: The UN System and Global Forums
- Power, Norms, and Multilateral Strategy in Diplomacy
- Diplomacy and Conflict: Mediation, Sanctions, and Peacebuilding
- Great Power Diplomacy: The US, China, EU, and Emerging Actors
- The Role of Small States and Middle Powers in International Negotiation
- Transnational and Sub-State Diplomacy: Cities, Regions, and Civil Society
- Strategic Communication, Soft Power, and Narrative in Diplomacy
- Future Diplomacy: AI, Climate Governance, and Crisis Response
- Capstone Simulation – Diplomatic Strategy during a Global Governance Crisis