Learning Objectives
5 objectives- Understand foundational concepts and key theories in international relations.
- Analyze the roles and impacts of international organizations and global governance mechanisms.
- Evaluate the causes and consequences of conflicts and security challenges in the international system.
- Examine the intersection of politics, economics, human rights, and environmental issues in global affairs.
- Develop critical thinking skills to assess international policies and interventions.
Content Outline
PreviewUnit 2497: International Relations - Theories, Institutions, and Global Challenges
1. Introduction to International Relations
- Definition and scope of international relations (IR)
- Importance of studying interactions among states, non-state actors, and international organizations
- Key concepts: sovereignty, power, diplomacy, interdependence
- Overview of the international system and its characteristics
2. Theoretical Frameworks in International Relations
2.1 Realism
- Core assumptions: state-centrism, anarchy, power struggle
- Classical realism vs. neorealism
- Implications for foreign policy
2.2 Liberalism
- Focus on cooperation, institutions, and interdependence
- Democratic peace theory
- Role of international organizations
2.3 Constructivism
- Importance of ideas, identities, and norms
- Social construction of state interests
- Impact on changing international behavior
2.4 Feminism in IR
- Gender perspectives on global politics
- Critique of traditional IR theories
- Contributions to understanding security and peace
3. International Organizations and Regimes
- Definition and types of international organizations (IOs)
- The United Nations: structure, functions, peacekeeping
- World Trade Organization and global trade governance
- Regional organizations (e.g., EU, ASEAN, African Union)
- International regimes and their role in cooperation
4. Global Governance and International Law
- Concept of global governance and multilateralism
- Sources and significance of international law
- Treaties, conventions, and customary law
- Mechanisms for dispute resolution and enforcement
- Challenges to global governance (sovereignty, compliance)
5. Conflict and Security Studies
5.1 Causes of Conflict
- Interstate vs. intrastate conflicts
- Economic, political, ethnic, and ideological factors
5.2 War and Peace Dynamics
- Theories of war
- Conflict resolution and peacebuilding strategies
5.3 Terrorism and Asymmetric Warfare
- Definitions and motivations
- Counterterrorism policies
5.4 Nuclear Proliferation
- Non-proliferation treaties and regimes
- Deterrence theory
5.5 Military Alliances and Peacekeeping
- NATO and other alliances
- UN peacekeeping operations: mandates and challenges
6. Global Political Economy
- Relationship between politics and economics internationally
- International trade theories and practices
- Global finance and economic institutions (IMF, World Bank)
- Development challenges and globalization effects
- Role and influence of multinational corporations
7. Human Rights and Humanitarian Interventions
- Historical evolution of human rights norms
- International human rights law and mechanisms
- Challenges protecting rights in conflict zones
- Humanitarian interventions and ethics
- Responsibility to Protect (R2P) doctrine: principles and controversies
8. Environmental Politics and Sustainable Development
- Environmental issues in IR: climate change, resource scarcity
- International environmental agreements and protocols
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Role of states, NGOs, and international actors in environmental governance
- Case studies on environmental cooperation and conflicts
Unlock the full outline
Get the complete content outline, learning outcomes and assessment methods for International Relations.
KSh 20 one-off, or included with a plan
Learning Outcomes
Unlock the outline above to see learning outcomes.
Assessment Methods
Unlock the outline above to see assessment methods.