Course Overview

The British Academy introduces this course on "International Relations and Foreign Diplomacy" which aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of global interactions, diplomatic practices, and the dynamics of international relations. Participants will gain insights into theoretical frameworks, practical diplomatic skills, and contemporary issues shaping the international landscape. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to analyze global events critically, engage in diplomatic processes effectively, and contribute to informed decision-making in international affairs.

Who should attend? 

• Professionals of political science, international relations, and diplomacy.
• Professionals working in international organizations, foreign ministries, and diplomatic missions.
• Individuals interested in global affairs, geopolitics, and international cooperation.

Knowledge and Benefits:

After completing the program, participants will be able to master the following:

• Provide an overview of the key concepts and theories in international relations.
• Explore the role of diplomacy in global governance and conflict resolution.
• Analyze contemporary issues and challenges in international diplomacy.
• Develop critical thinking and analytical skills in understanding global affairs.

Course Content

• Introduction to International Relations
• Definition and Scope: Understanding the scope and interdisciplinary nature of international relations (IR).
• Key Concepts: Sovereignty, power, statehood, and globalization.
• Historical Development: Evolution of international relations as a field of study.
• Theories of International Relations
• Realism: Core tenets and principles of realism in IR theory.
• Liberalism: Principles of liberal internationalism and institutionalism.
• Constructivism: Understanding social constructs and norms in international relations.
• Critical Approaches: Post-colonialism, feminism, and other critical perspectives.
• International Organizations and Global Governance
• United Nations (UN): Structure, functions, and roles in international diplomacy.
• Regional Organizations: Role of regional bodies (EU, AU, ASEAN, etc.) in global governance.
• Non-State Actors: Influence of NGOs, multinational corporations, and civil society in global affairs.
• Global Governance Challenges: Addressing transnational issues (climate change, terrorism, pandemics).
• Diplomatic Practices and Protocol
• Role of Diplomacy: Functions of diplomacy in statecraft and international relations.
• Types of Diplomacy: Bilateral, multilateral, and track II diplomacy.
• Diplomatic Skills: Negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Diplomatic Immunity and Protocol: Understanding diplomatic privileges and protocol norms.
• International Law and Treaties
• Sources of International Law: Treaties, customs, general principles, and judicial decisions.
• International Courts and Tribunals: Role of ICJ, ICC, and other international judicial bodies.
• Human Rights and International Law: Protection mechanisms and challenges in human rights law.
• Arms Control and Disarmament: Efforts and treaties to regulate arms proliferation.
• Global Security and Conflict Resolution
• Security Theories: Understanding security paradigms (traditional vs. non-traditional security).
• Conflict Analysis: Causes and dynamics of conflicts in different regions.
• Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution: Role of mediation, peacekeeping, and post-conflict reconstruction.
• Case Studies: Analyzing historical and contemporary conflicts (e.g., Middle East, Korean Peninsula).
• Contemporary Issues in International Relations
• Emerging Powers: Rise of China, India, and other emerging powers in global politics.
• Climate Diplomacy: International efforts to combat climate change (Paris Agreement, COP conferences).
• Digital Diplomacy: Influence of digital technologies on diplomacy and global communication.
• Pandemic Diplomacy: Global responses to health crises and pandemic diplomacy strategies.
• Ethics and Challenges in Diplomacy
• Ethical Dilemmas: Balancing national interests and global responsibilities in diplomacy.
• Diplomatic Integrity: Transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption measures in diplomacy.
• Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy: Use of culture, education, and public diplomacy in international relations.
• Information Warfare and Cyber Diplomacy: Challenges posed by cyber threats and disinformation campaigns.