INTR4001: Origins and Foundations of International Relations

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to serve as a cornerstone of the International Relations BA (Hons) programme, and is designed to equip all students with the essential intellectual toolkit for understanding global politics. Its primary aims are to:

1. Introduce core concepts, theories, and historical contexts that fundamentally shape the discipline of International Relations.
2. Provide a robust foundational understanding of critical ideas such as the state system, sovereignty, power, anarchy, ideology, hegemony, and the notion of international order.
3. Explore the history of international relations, from the emergence of the Westphalian system to contemporary global challenges.
4. Examine major theoretical traditions, including Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, and Marxism, and critically assess their strengths and weaknesses.
5. Develop essential analytical tools through the analysis of historical and contemporary case studies, enabling engagement with the complexities of world politics.

By exploring the history of the discipline itself and key international historical events, the module ensures students understand how the field has developed and why certain approaches prevail. Ultimately, the module aims to empower students to critically assess the strengths and weaknesses of different theoretical perspectives in explaining current international dynamics. This module is a core component of the programme since a critical understanding of these foundational elements is indispensable for any student pursuing an International Relations degree. It provides the necessary intellectual scaffolding upon which all subsequent, more specialized learning within the programme will build. It is the vital first step in transforming students into informed global thinkers.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Define and explain core concepts in International Relations, such as sovereignty, the state system, power, order, and the changing character of war.
2. Analyze the historical evolution of the international system, from the emergence of the Westphalian system to contemporary global challenges.
3. Explain the core tenets of major theoretical traditions in IR, including Realism, Liberalism, Marxism.
4. Describe the strengths and weaknesses of different theoretical approaches in explaining continuity and change in world politics.
5. Apply theoretical frameworks to analyse historical and contemporary case studies in international relations, demonstrating their ability to connect theory to real-world events.

Outline Syllabus

This module introduces students to the core concepts, theories, and historical contexts that shape the field of International Relations. It provides a foundational understanding of the state system, sovereignty, power, anarchy, and other key concepts that underpin the discipline. Students will explore the history of international relations, from the emergence of the Westphalian system to contemporary global challenges. The module examines major theoretical traditions, including Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, and Marxism and critically assesses their strengths and weaknesses in explaining current international dynamics. Through the analysis of historical and contemporary case studies, students will develop the essential analytical tools to understand and engage with the complexities of world politics.

Key topics include:

• Foundational concepts: sovereignty, state system, power, anarchy, ideology, hegemony, order, and the changing character of war.
• The historical evolution of world order, from the Westphalian system to the present day.
• History of the discipline and International History.
• Foundational IR theories: Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Marxism.

Assessment Proportions

• Case Study Analysis

This will apply concepts and theories to a real-world example. This assessment is designed to allow students to demonstrate their foundational knowledge of IR concepts and theories, and their ability to apply these frameworks to analyse a specific historical or contemporary international dynamic. It measures their conceptual understanding, theoretical application, and analytical skills developed throughout the module.

• 10-minute Group Presentation

This serves as a micro-application of the module's core analytical frameworks, functioning as a precursor to the more intensive Case Study. By synthesizing a contemporary international dynamic through a specific theoretical lens, groups must demonstrate their ability to move beyond mere historical narration toward rigorous conceptual analysis.

INTR4002: Global Challenges in World Politics

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

• Develop understanding of contemporary challenges in global politics through close engagement with specific issues and topics.
• Consider complex, empirically grounded case studies to which students can apply diverse theoretical analysis.
• Consider the impacts of climate change, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation on international security, migration, and development. How is climate change reshaping the international system?
• Consider political challenges attached to contemporary digital technologies, information ecosystems, and emerging technologies.
• Introduce students to critical political economy thinking on the relationship between capitalism, political power and environment
• Showcase interdisciplinarity in Politics and International Relations.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

• Demonstrate a knowledge foundation of contemporary challenges in politics and international relations
• Consider the inter- and intra-disciplinary nature of contemporary global challenges in Politics and International Relations
• Develop focused and coherent research questions
• Approach and construct empirically grounded case studies when conducting research.
• Communicate scholarly arguments effectively and present complex analyses and research findings coherently.

Outline Syllabus

This module provides students with a nuanced understanding of the forces driving change in the international system and their implications for global order and human security, equipping them with the tools to navigate and contribute to a complex and interconnected world. It moves beyond traditional state-centric perspectives to explore the complex interplay of actors, structures, and processes shaping our world. The module will delve into the intricacies of global governance and address the emergence of new security threats, while tackling shifting power-dynamics at both the national and international level. Throughout the module, students will engage with a variety of case studies that illustrate the complexities of these global issues. Through debates and discussions, students will foster critical thinking, develop their communication skills, and grapple with the ethical and political dimensions of global challenges.

Assessment Proportions

Assessment is based on engagement with key module concepts and readings toward these; research skills; presentation and communication of ideas; and critical thinking (MLO1, MLO2, MLO3, MOL4, MLO5).

INTR4003: Global Governance and International Institutions

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module is a fundamental component of the International Relations BA (Hons) programme, specifically designed to introduce students to the intricate mechanisms and actors shaping our globalized world. Its primary aim is to:

• Contextualize the historical development of the international system and the evolution of world order, providing a crucial framework for understanding contemporary global challenges.
• Examine the diverse range of key actors in global politics, including states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations (MNCs), and transnational non-state actors, and analyse their respective functions and impacts.
• Analyse the complex processes of global governance, such as diplomacy, negotiation, and norm-setting, which are vital for addressing shared global issues.
• Explore the economic, social, and cultural dimensions of globalization, assessing its profound impact on state sovereignty, the dynamics of international cooperation, and patterns of global inequality.
• Critically evaluate, through various case studies, how these diverse actors interact to address pressing global issues, and to assess the effectiveness, legitimacy, and limitations of international cooperation in a highly interdependent world.

This module is offered as a core part of the IR programme because it provides students with an indispensable understanding of the structures, processes, and actors that govern international relations in the 21st century. Building upon foundational IR concepts, it equips students with the analytical tools necessary to critically assess the feasibility and challenges of collective action on a global scale. In an era defined by interconnectedness and shared global challenges, a deep comprehension of global governance and the institutions that underpin it is not merely beneficial but essential for any student aspiring to understand, analyse, or contribute to world politics.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Explain the historical development of the international system and the evolution of world order.
2. Identify key actors in global politics and explain the processes of global governance they engage in.
3. Understand the impact of globalization and the effectiveness of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.
4. Apply theoretical concepts and analytical frameworks to assess actor interactions in contemporary global governance case studies.
5. Demonstrate critical thinking and communication skills through the examination of global political processes.

Outline Syllabus

This module provides an introduction to the complex landscape of global governance and the role of international institutions in addressing contemporary challenges. It begins by contextualising the historical development of the international system and the evolution of world order, setting the stage for an analysis of key actors in global politics. Students will explore the functions and impact of states, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations, and transnational non-state actors. The module examines the processes of global governance, including diplomacy, negotiation, and norm-setting, and analyses the economic, social, and cultural dimensions of globalization and their impact on state sovereignty, international cooperation, and global inequality. Using case studies, students will critically evaluate how these diverse actors interact and attempt to address pressing global issues, assessing the effectiveness, legitimacy, and limitations of international cooperation in a globalized world.

Key topics include:

• History of the International System and history of World Order.
• Examine the key actors in global politics: states, international organizations (UN, EU, IMF etc.), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), multinational corporations (MNCs), transnational non-state actors.
• Analyze the processes of global governance: diplomacy, negotiation, and norm-setting.
• Diplomacy and Negotiation: The role of diplomacy in conflict resolution.
• Norm-Setting - The development of international norms and standards.
• Globalization and Interdependence - Economic, social, and cultural dimensions of globalization; The impact of globalization on state sovereignty and international cooperation; Global inequality and its implications.
• Evaluation and Critique of Global Governance, its legitimacy and effectiveness.

Assessment Proportions

The primary summative assessment for this module is an Exam. This assessment is designed to comprehensively evaluate students' foundational knowledge of global governance concepts, the history of the international system, key actors, and major theories. It will measure their ability to recall, explain, and critically analyse the complexities of world politics, the processes of international cooperation, and the legitimacy and limitations of international institutions as covered throughout the module.

INTR4004: Critical Perspectives on Global Politics

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module is a core component of the International Relations BA (Hons) programme, specifically designed to broaden students' analytical horizons and challenge conventional understandings of international relations. Its primary aim is to:

• Introduce students to a range of critical theories and alternative perspectives of world order, moving beyond traditional, positivist approaches to IR.
• Illuminate how critical perspectives such as poststructuralism, feminism, queer IR, postcolonialism, and green theory offer distinct lenses for analysing global politics.
• Shift students beyond state-centric views to examine how power, security, and global order are profoundly shaped by underlying social, economic, and cultural forces.
• Equip students with the necessary analytical tools to deconstruct dominant narratives, uncover hidden power dynamics, and analyse global issues from a variety of diverse perspectives.
• Foster a deeper understanding of alternative international realities and encourage critical engagement with established IR frameworks, exploring the potential for transformative change in global affairs.

This module is offered as a core component of the IR programme because it provides an essential counterpoint to the foundational theories and concepts introduced in earlier modules. In a complex and rapidly changing world, it is crucial for International Relations graduates to possess not only a strong grasp of mainstream theories but also the ability to critically scrutinize them and to analyse global issues from multiple, often marginalized, viewpoints. This module enhances intellectual flexibility, promotes a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of world politics, and prepares students to engage with global challenges in an intellectually rigorous and ethically informed manner.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Identify and distinguish between traditional and critical theoretical approaches within International Relations, including Marxism, poststructuralism, feminism, queer IR, postcolonialism and green theory.
2. Deconstruct dominant narratives and uncover hidden power dynamics in global politics by applying critical theoretical frameworks.
3. Analyze how social, economic, and cultural forces shape power, security, and global order, moving beyond state-centric perspectives.
4. Apply critical perspectives to analyze contemporary global issues and case studies, fostering an understanding of alternative international realities.
5. Critically engage with established IR frameworks and reflect on the potential for transformative change in world politics.

Outline Syllabus

This module challenges traditional understandings of international relations by introducing critical theories and alternative perspectives of world order. It introduces students to the ways in which critical perspectives such as poststructuralism, feminism, queer IR, postcolonialism and green theory contrast with positivist theories. Shifting beyond state-centric views, it examines how power, security, and global order are shaped by social, economic, and cultural forces. Through the use of case studies students will gain the necessary tools to deconstruct dominant narratives and uncover hidden power dynamics. Students will learn to analyse global issues from a range of diverse perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of alternative international realities. This module encourages students to critically engage with established IR frameworks and explore the potential for transformative change.

Key topics include:

• Critical Theories and alternative understandings of international politics.
• Positivism VS Critical Theory
• Poststructuralism, Feminism, Queer IR, Postcolonialism, Green theory
• Neo-Gramscianism and the Frankfurt School
• International Relations from the Global South

Assessment Proportions

The primary, summative assessment is a Case study analysis applying critical theory to a real-world example. This assessment is designed to allow students to demonstrate their knowledge of critical IR concepts and theories, and their ability to apply these frameworks to deconstruct dominant narratives and analyse specific international dynamics. It measures their conceptual understanding, theoretical application, and analytical skills in uncovering hidden power dynamics.

INTR5001: Reshaping Global Order

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module serves as a pivotal core component in the second year of the International Relations BA (Hons) programme, building directly upon the foundational theories and concepts introduced in Year 1. Its primary aim is to:

• Delve into the profound transformations affecting the contemporary international system, offering a sophisticated understanding of current global dynamics.
• Examine the dynamic interplay of power shifts, the multifaceted impacts of globalization, and the rapidly evolving landscapes of security, providing a comprehensive overview of global change.
• Critically analyse the changing distribution of power in the international system and its implications for global order, while also exploring alternative visions of international politics.
• Advance students' understanding by offering a critique of global governance and international cooperation, assessing their effectiveness and legitimacy in a changing world.
• Introduce and critically examine key concepts in security studies, encompassing both traditional and critical approaches, and explore emerging concepts such as human, environmental, and gendered security, alongside new domains of contestation.
• Equip students with the analytical tools to scrutinize the role of power and discourse in shaping security practices and to understand the changing character of conflict in the 21st century.

This module is offered as a core component because it is crucial for students to progress beyond introductory concepts to engage with the complex and ongoing transformations of the global order. It integrates insights from power politics, global governance, and security studies, reflecting the interconnectedness of contemporary international challenges. By critically analyzing these dynamics and exploring alternative perspectives, the module prepares students for advanced specialized study, research, and future careers requiring a nuanced understanding of global change, ensuring they can actively reflect on how these challenges are affecting global governance and international cooperation.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Analyse the changing distribution of power and assess its implications for global order, including alternative visions for international cooperation.
2. Examine the evolving nature of security and conflict by applying concepts such as human, environmental, and gendered security, and by scrutinizing the role of power and discourse in shaping security practices.
3. Evaluate the complexities of global governance in a transforming world including assessing the legitimacy and effectiveness of international organizations.
4. Apply theoretical frameworks from International Relations and security studies to analyze contemporary global transformations.
5. Analytical and critical thinking skills through the examination of global power shifts, evolving security landscapes, and governance processes.

Outline Syllabus

This module delves into the profound transformations affecting the contemporary international system. Building directly upon the theories and concepts introduced in Year 1, it examines the dynamic interplay of power shifts, globalisation, and evolving security landscapes. Students will critically analyse the changing distribution of power in the international system and its implications for global order, while exploring alternative visions of international politics. The module then moves onto a critique of global governance and international cooperation, before introducing key concepts in security studies, including critical and traditional approaches. It examines emerging concepts such as human, environmental, and gendered security, along with new domains of contestation. Overall, students will develop the tools to scrutinise the role of power and discourse in shaping security practices and the changing character of war. Throughout the module, they will engage with the complex dynamics that are characteristic of our changing global order and reflect on how these challenges are affecting global governance and international cooperation. Key topics include:

• The Changing Distribution of Power and Global Order
• Global Transformations and the Global South
• Alternative Visions of International Order
• Conceptualising security – traditional and critical approaches.
• Exploring the evolving nature of conflict in the 21st century, including new forms of warfare, the role of non-state actors, and the impact of globalization and technology.
• Evaluation and Critique of Global Governance, its legitimacy and effectiveness.

Assessment Proportions

Summative Assessment: The primary summative assessment is a self-designed essay with clearly defined parameters and structure. This assessment is designed to allow students to demonstrate their detailed knowledge of the module's themes (power shifts, globalisation, security, alternative orders), their critical analysis of theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, and their ability to formulate a clear research question and conduct independent, in-depth inquiry into complex dynamics of global order.Formative Assessment: A key formative assessment is a presentation of essay plan and argument.

• It provides early, low-stakes feedback on students' chosen essay topic, proposed argument, and initial analytical approach for their self-designed essay.
• Students receive constructive feedback from their peers, offering diverse perspectives and identifying potential areas for improvement in their arguments and structure.
• Students also develop their own "feedback literacy" by critically engaging with and providing feedback on their peers' proposals.
• The feedback received directly informs and guides students in the development and refinement of their final summative self-designed essay, ensuring a continuous learning loop.

INTR5002: War, Peace and Modernity

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to…

• Explore the impact of modernity on conflict: How technological breakthroughs and new modes of international interaction have fundamentally redefined the conduct of war and the pursuit of peace.
• Critically engage with diverse approaches that interrogate the legacies of modern warfare alongside emerging frameworks for understanding global peace and non-violence.
• Develop an interdisciplinary perspective on modern conflicts by encouraging students to evaluate war and peace through lenses that range from cultural and political histories to technological shifts, thereby linking historical trajectories with contemporary realities in modern international politics.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Analyse the transformation of conflict in the Modern Age and evaluate how modernity has influenced the ethical, political, and strategic dimensions of warfare and peace.
2. Apply diverse methodologies to contemporary and historical conflicts to challenge conventional narratives of war, peace, and modern geopolitical dynamics.
3. Synthesise perspectives on modern war and peace to construct a nuanced understanding of how modern technologies, events, and practices shape contemporary conflict and cooperation.
4. Communicate ideas and articulate informed arguments and critical reflections on modernity’s role in shaping conflict and peace.

Outline Syllabus

How have war and violence changed with the birth of the modern age, the industrial revolution and the rise of nation-states? How have modern geopolitics and war transformed the ethical, political and strategic conditions of international politics and economy? In this module students will learn key concepts and critical approaches to the study of war and peace. In taking a longer view of war’s social, political, and cultural histories, this module seeks to provide students with a strong intellectual foundation as well as an introduction to heterodox methods for investigating conflict at various geographical scales. Attending to key events, technologies and practices that have shaped the modern world, this module interrogates war’s contested legacies around the globe while also challenging normative disciplinary tendencies to prioritise the study of war over alternative frames of peace, non-violence, and political action.

Assessment Proportions

• 100% Essay, ~2500 words

INTR5003: Global Capitalism and its Discontent

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to introduce students to the key dynamics, contradictions, and power relations that shape the global capitalist economy. In a time marked by financial instability, environmental crises, technological transformation, and growing global inequality, it seeks to equip students with the conceptual and analytical tools needed to make sense of the present and future of global capitalism. The module also aims to introduce students to the key intellectual traditions, debates, and controversies that have shaped the study of global capitalism, including green, marxist, decolonising and feminist critiques of the production of knowledge in the discipline of political economy. It aims to help students think through the ways capitalism has evolved and explain the crises, contestation, and uneven forms of development that have characterised its historical trajectory.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Demonstrate knowledge of key theories and concepts in the study of global capitalism
2. Apply these concepts and theories of capitalism to the study of real world political-economic developments
3. Analyse the relationship between politics and the global economy
4. Evaluate policy debates and real-world trends, from automation and climate breakdown to debt and financialisation.
5. Formulate coherent and well supported written arguments using appropriate evidence
6. Read broadly, critically engage with academic literature and compare different perspectives
7. Carry out independent research

Outline Syllabus

From financial meltdowns to rising inequalities, from environmental breakdown to the looming automation revolution, global capitalism appears to be in a state of permanent uncertainty. Studying the global economy has never been more urgent and students will have the opportunity to grapple with various questions regarding the present and future of global capitalism: Are states at the mercy of global corporations? Can capitalism survive the climate crisis? Is Western economic hegemony coming to an end? What is neoliberalism and are there alternatives to it? Students will explore the historical evolution, major transformations and possible futures of global capitalism, drawing on the insights of its defenders and its critiques. Crucially, the module casts light on the unequal power relations structuring the global economy and the ways existing patterns of trade and production impact development opportunities in the Global South. Through both theoretical engagement with competing political economy perspectives and the study of real-world developments, students will learn to critically analyse the social challenges posed by the evolution of global capitalism and assess the limits of contemporary economic governance.

Assessment Proportions

The assessment for this module is designed to develop both foundational academic skills and the ability to apply political economy theories and concepts to real-world problems.

The first assignment will be a short blog post aimed for public dissemination/non-academic audience. It will require students to draw on key concepts and material from the module to analyse current global economic issues. By translating academic debates and concepts into accessible language this assessment will test student’s understanding of key concepts but also their ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively. Through the blogpost students will also have the opportunity to demonstrate the relevance of theoretical perspectives to ongoing political-economic developments.

The second assessment is a research essay which is based on independent research, critical engagement with different political economy perspectives, and exploration of empirical case studies. For this assessment students will select a topic related to the module and develop a critical, well-evidenced argument in relation to it. Towards the end of the module there will be a seminar-essay workshop where students will be able to get peer feedback and teacher feedback on their ideas and angles for the research essay.

INTR5004: Authoritarianism, Repression and Resistance in the 21st century

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module addresses a critical area within contemporary global politics: the surge of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding. It is being offered as a core component of the International Relations program to provide students with a nuanced understanding of these pressing global phenomena. Drawing on recent scholarship, it introduces students to different types of autocracies, reveals how they are governed, and explores what steps they take to survive in an increasingly democratic world. Crucially, the module also examines the various forms of resistance to authoritarian rule, including grassroots movements, civil disobedience, transnational advocacy, and digital activism. This dual focus on both authoritarian tactics and resistance strategies addresses a significant gap in many traditional IR curricula, providing a specialized and timely focus that strengthens the overall programme's relevance and distinctiveness in the higher education landscape. This module aims to:

• Unpack the global surge of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding.
• Examine different forms of autocracy and diverse strategies of repression and managing dissent employed by 21st-century authoritarian regimes, from digital surveillance to physical violence.
• Assess the forces contributing to the resilience of authoritarian regimes, including institutions and processes, economic resources, international support, and the erosion of democratic norms
• Explore various forms of resistance that emerge in response to authoritarian rule, from grassroots movements and civil disobedience to transnational advocacy and digital activism.
• Critically assess the effectiveness of different resistance strategies and explore their implications for international relations and human rights.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the critical differences between democracies and various authoritarian regime types, including their governance, institutions, and processes.
2. Analyse how authoritarian regimes hold on to and lose power, assessing the forces contributing to their resilience and democratic backsliding.
3. Discuss the implications of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding for international relations and human rights.
4. Apply key concepts and theoretical frameworks to case studies that illustrate diverse forms of resistance to authoritarian rule, ranging from grassroots movements to digital activism.
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of different resistance strategies and their broader implications for global politics.

Outline Syllabus

This module unpacks the global surge of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding. It examines different forms of autocracy and moves beyond traditional typologies to explore the diverse strategies of repression employed by 21st-century authoritarian regimes, from digital surveillance and manipulation to physical violence. The modules engages with the forces contributing to the resilience of these regimes, including economic resources, international support, and the erosion of democratic norms. Crucially, it also examines the various forms of resistance that emerge in response to authoritarian rule, from grassroots movements and civil disobedience to transnational advocacy and digital activism. Through comparative case studies and theoretical frameworks, students will develop a nuanced understanding of the challenges and possibilities for democratic contestation in an era of resurgent authoritarianism. Students will get to critically assess the effectiveness of different resistance strategies and to explore the implications for international relations and human rights. Throughout the module, we will engage with fundamental questions:

• How do democracies and authoritarian regimes differ in their governance, institutions, and processes?
• What forces enable authoritarian regimes to maintain power, and what drives democratic backsliding?
• What are the implications of authoritarianism and democratic backsliding for international relations and human rights?
• What forms does resistance to authoritarian rule take?
• How can we critically evaluate the effectiveness of different resistance strategies and their broader implications for global politics?

Key topic areas include:

• Defining democracy and autocracy
• Authoritarian regime types
• Autocratic governance: institutions, economy, processes, and managing dissent
• International politics of autocracies
• Drivers of democratic transitions and pathways to democracy
• Democratic backsliding and breakdown
• Forms of resistance to authoritarian rule (grassroots, civil disobedience, transnational advocacy, digital activism)
• Effectiveness and implications of resistance strategies for international relations and human rights

Assessment Proportions

Summative Assessment: The primary summative assessment is a substantial final critical writing piece (self-designed essay question; case study analysis) on a topic of the student's choosing. This assessment is designed to allow students to demonstrate:

• Detailed knowledge of authoritarianism, repression, and resistance.
• Critical analysis of theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence.
• The ability to formulate a clear research question and conduct independent, in-depth inquiry.
• Effective communication of complex ideas in a well-structured academic format.

Formative Assessment: A key formative assessment is an informal peer feedback exercise where students present their research proposals for the final critical writing piece.

• It provides early, low-stakes feedback on students' chosen topics, research questions, and initial analytical approaches.
• Students receive constructive feedback from their peers, offering diverse perspectives and identifying potential areas for improvement.
• Students also develop their own "feedback literacy" by critically engaging with and providing feedback on their peers' proposals.
• The feedback received from this exercise will directly inform and guide students in the development and refinement of their final summative critical writing piece, ensuring a continuous learning loop.

INTR6002: Critical Studies of War and Security

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to…

• Develop advanced critical perspectives to enable students to interrogate the social, political, and cultural complexities of war and security. In particular: engage with advanced critical theories such as critical geopolitics, and contemporary understandings of ‘late modern war’.
• Challenge conventional understandings of war while embracing diverse approaches that reveal deeper interconnections between war, security, and societal dynamics.
• Examine transformative political, social, and cultural shifts to guide students in analysing the transition from the Cold War to the Global War on Terror to the so-called ‘New Cold War’.
• Foster interdisciplinary research and equip students with the necessary analytical skills to synthesize diverse theoretical and empirical insights by building on their existing theoretical foundations and further develop their ability to evaluate contemporary conflicts and security issues from multiple perspectives.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Critically analyse the evolution of warfare—from the Cold War through the Global War on Terror to the reemergence of great power conflict.
2. Apply critical theories and methodologies including critical geopolitics to understand contemporary scholarship on ‘late modern war’.
3. Synthesise multidimensional perspectives on security.
4. Articulate how shifts in political, cultural, and technological domains contribute to current security dilemmas and challenges.
5. Communicate scholarly arguments effectively and present complex analyses and research findings coherently.

Outline Syllabus

This module introduces students to advanced critical approaches to the study of war and security. Focusing on the social, political, and cultural complexity of war in the ‘late modern’ period, this module builds on students’ theoretical foundations to investigate and contest war’s increasing reach both around the globe and into everyday life. Marking the transition from the Cold War to the ‘Global War on Terror,’ this module considers especially how contemporary scholars have come to view ‘late modern war’ and the multiple spaces through which war is fought. The module takes a critical geopolitical approach to interrogate and contest how the re-emergence of great power conflict has been understood as a ‘New Cold War’.

Assessment Proportions

• 100% Essay, ~3000 words

INTR6003: Environment and Development

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to provide students with a theoretical foundation for the study of international development and the environment, by focusing on the structural roots of current challenges (with a particular attention on global inequalities and environmental injustice).

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Critically analyse the economic and socio-political structures that underpin current global disparities and environmental challenges and injustice;
2. Apply key concepts and theoretical frameworks to case studies that illustrate the complex interaction between environmental management and development policies in various global contexts;
3. Identify theories, knowledges and value that shape the different understandings and practices of sustainable development;
4. Evaluate the effectiveness and impacts of international development initiatives and environmental policies.

Outline Syllabus

Drawing on mainstream and critical development studies, international relations, international political economy, and discourse analysis, the module examines the interconnections between uneven development and environmental degradation. Students are invited to critically examine dominant narratives of economic growth, progress and sustainability, while exploring transformative approaches rooted in decolonisation and non-Western perspectives. This approach not only enhances understanding of structural inequalities but also emphasizes alternative visions of sustainability emerging from the Global South. Key concepts and theories will be discussed alongside specific case studies. Topics covered will typically include the global debt crisis, green discourses (from ecological modernisation to deep ecology), the neoliberalisation of Nature, climate inequalities, the evolution of the concept development and the centrality of economism, the influence of colonial history and capitalism on the concept and practices of sustainable development, voices and alternative knowledges from the Global South.

Assessment Proportions

The assessments are designed to allow students to analyse and apply mainstream and critical theories to development and environmental politics and policies through a reflective piece documenting their understanding and engagement with the topics and the core readings, and a case study documentary (video) on a topic of their choice selected from the Global South.

• 40% Reading and reflective journal
• 60% Case study documentary (video)

INTR6004: Security, Strategy and Technology

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to…

• Explore the interaction between military strategy and technological innovation. It will Introduce students to the foundational concepts and evolving paradigms of Strategic Studies, emphasizing how traditional strategic principles adapt when confronted with emerging and disruptive technologies in the 21st-century security environment or when geopolitical conditions of technological provenance differ.
• Provide a critical analysis of how technologies such as Artificial Intelligence/Machine learning, Quantum, telecommunications, space, biotechnologies and more are being integrated by militaries for warfighting and defence innovation, and what this integration means for future conflict scenarios.
• Examine key domains—including cyber conflict and maritime security—by analysing historical trajectories, current practices, and future trends, including how these domains are reshaped by technological and geopolitical changes.
• Equip students with the analytical tools and strategic foresight necessary for effective leadership in security and defence, fostering the ability to critically assess and respond to dynamic security challenges.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of Strategic Studies as an academic sub-discipline, including its evolution and relevance within the modern security studies landscape.
2. Critically analyse the impact of emerging and disruptive technologies, including how they are transforming military strategies and defence innovation processes.
3. Assess the past, present, and prospective developments in cyber conflict, and evaluate the strategic uses of cyber capabilities by both state and non-state actors to secure competitive advantages.
4. Evaluate the shifting parameters of conflict in the maritime domain, assessing how advancements in technology and evolving geopolitical contexts are reshaping seapower and maritime security.
5. Synthesise insights from strategic theory, technological innovation, and domain-specific analyses to formulate and articulate well-supported arguments regarding contemporary security challenges.

Outline Syllabus

This module is focused on the interrelationship between Security, Strategy and Technology. The course begins with an introduction to Strategic Studies as an academic discipline, outlining key concepts and their relevance in the 21st Century security environment. The course goes on to apply these concepts to a variety of domains of conflict. The module examines Emerging Disruptive Technologies, including Artificial Intelligence and Quantum, biotechnologies and space, and how militaries are integrating them into war fighting and defence innovation processes. The course then moves on to explore the past, present and future of Cyber Conflict, and how state and non-state actors are leveraging cyber capabilities for strategic advantage inside and outside of war. The course concludes by examining the parameters and drivers of conflict in the maritime domain, and how sea power and Maritime Security are changing in response to shifting geopolitical and technological trends. The course encourages critical thinking for future leaders in security and defence.

Assessment Proportions

• 100% Portfolio (including a tabletop exercise report and a critical assessment of the exercise), ~3200 words

POIR5001: Global Superpowers

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

Contemporary international society is in a state of flux. It is going through a process of rapid change with new challenges and new actors dominating the scene on a constant basis. Gone are the old certainties of a unipolar, and before that a bipolar order.?This module examines this evolving landscape of global power, identifying the forces challenging established hegemonies and exploring the fluid nature of influence in the 21st century. It analyses the shifting balance of power, exploring the relative decline of traditional superpowers such as the United States and Russia and the simultaneous rise of new actors on the global stage, including the traditionally identified BRICS nations as the core members of the new superpower grouping. The module encourages students to consider how economic, military, and cultural influence is being reconfigured in a multipolar world, reshaping traditional understandings of world order. Crucially, the module also analyses the internal and external pressures these powers face: rising regional actors, the evolving nature of global threats, and the erosion of traditional power structures. Through different case studies and theoretical frameworks, students will gain a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between rising and established powers and the implications for global stability and future orders.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Assess how traditional power dynamics in the international system are changing
2. Identify emerging global powers
3. Examine the social, political, and economic causes of changing global power
4. Understand the behaviour and power attributes of traditional superpowers and emerging powers

Outline Syllabus

The module will use theoretical frameworks and case studies to examine the changing power dynamics in the international system. The module will examine traditional superpowers, including the United States and Russia, as well as emerging powers, including China and other BRICS nations. The module will give students the tools to understand the international relations, power, and influence of these traditional and new actors and how their behavior influences the international system.

Assessment Proportions

• 100% essay, ~2500 words

POIR5002: Politics of the Global South

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

Taught by a team of specialists, the primary aim of this module is to demystify the idea of the Global South. Through a series of linguistic, economic and political interpretations, it introduces students to the uniqueness of the region. The architecture that holds together the Global South is not just its demarcation from its counterpart - the developed “Global North” but the interplay and interconnectedness of specific themes that runs through them. The core objective of this module is to focus on these specific traits. They broadly range from issues of colonialism and post colonialism, dimension of contemporary nationalism, economic underdevelopment, external intervention, inter-state war, intra-state violence, regional cooperation (South-South Cooperation), processes of governance marred by authoritarianism, poverty and migration and such.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Upon completion of this module, the students will gain a critical understanding on the nature, character and workings of a very complex part of the international society.
2. Upon examining the Politics of the Global South, they will also gain an in-depth understanding of the future of the Global North as the fate of both are intimately intertwined.
3. Given the importance of the area global affairs, the module will prepare the student to plunge in a diverse range of career options. The knowledge gained will help them launch in the career of academia, journalism, social activism, civil service, international advocacy, as well as the world of finance and law.

Outline Syllabus

Global South is both an academic interpretation as well as practical reality in contemporary international politics. It is loosely defined as a group of nations in the non-western world who exhibit a particular kind of socio-economic and political culture. Comprising of some 134 states from Africa, Asia, Oceania and Latin America and the Caribbean region. These are traditionally considered “peripheral countries” lacking in development, marked by political instability, and united by a common colonial past. Taken together, Global South constitutes three-fourth of humanity. Despite the numerical strength, the region remains shackled by numerous challenges. The primary goal of this module is to demystify the idea of the Global South. Through a series of linguistic, economic and political interpretations, it introduces the students to the uniqueness of the region. The architecture that holds together the Global South is not just its demarcation from its counterpart - the developed “Global North” but the interplay and interconnectedness of specific themes that runs through them. The core objective of this module is to focus on these specific traits. They broadly range from issues of colonialism and post colonialism, dimension of contemporary nationalism, economic underdevelopment, external intervention, inter-state war, intra-state violence, regional cooperation (South-South Cooperation), processes of governance marred by authoritarianism, poverty and migration and such. Introduction – Defining the Global South

1. The Birth of Pan-Africanism
2. Pan-African Thinkers
3. Contemporary Pan-Africanism
4. South Africa and BRICS
5. Legacies of colonialism
6. Disputed borders
7. The question of gender
8. Identity and the state
9. Dimensions of democracy
10. A world divided by ethnicity and religion
11. Place of radical nationalism
12. Competition and Cooperation Engaging with the North

Conclusion - Looking Ahead: The future of South-South Cooperation

Assessment Proportions

The module offers a mixed method of assessment. It is divided into two segments. Essay (50%) and end of the term examination (50%). There will be a dedicated set of 12 essay questions available in the module outline for the students. The examination questions will be available during the scheduled examination hours and day.

• 50% essay, ~1500 words
• 50% exam, 1 hour

POIR6002: The Politics of Crises and the Future of Governance

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

The module aims to examine contemporary manifestations of crisis and how various actors seek to govern, exploit or resist them. The module aims to examine the different ways that crises are theorised by competing perspectives and the different remedies that are proposed to address them. The module aims to provide students with a critical understanding of the intersecting political, economic, social, and environmental crises that define the contemporary landscape of global governance. The module aims to foster future-oriented thinking about various aspects of governance (e.g. economic, environmental, social) by encouraging critical engagement with debates on crises and their management. The module aims to develop students’ ability to synthesise conceptual insights from various fields (including but not only critical political economy and environmental studies) in order to make sense of complex real-world developments and crises.

Educational Aims

1. Evaluate competing approaches to crisis, including from the fields of critical political economy, environmental theory and development studies.
2. Explain how economic, political, environmental, and social crises intersect and shape contemporary governing challenges
3. Analyse how different actors and institutions respond to crises, and assess the effectiveness, limitations, and political implications of these responses.
4. Apply key concepts from the course to explain and interpret real-world developments
5. Formulate and communicate well-supported arguments about the present and future of governance in a context of overlapping global crises.

Outline Syllabus

We are living in an era of accelerating crises – of democracy, capitalism, environment, and governance itself – that are reshaping the 21st century global order.?This module critically?examines these intersecting crises and their uneven social, political and economic impacts. Moving beyond traditional political analyses, the module offers an original perspective on the complex interplay of technological disruptions, economic instability, health emergencies and geopolitical shifts.?Informed by among others, by debates within the fields of political economy, environmental politics and development, the module explores how different actors, from international institutions to grassroots movements, attempt to contain these crises and how they are transformed by them. Students will assess competing understandings and responses to ongoing challenges through in-depth case studies of specific crises (e.g. crisis of economy, crisis of social reproduction, crisis of work, energy crisis, climate crisis) critical debates around their nature, and forward-looking research about their possible trajectories. Students will explore how our understanding of power, security and governance are being reshaped by a world where crisis has become the norm. Each week will focus on a different site of crisis, from the stagnating global economy and the breakdown of environmental governance, to the erosion of democratic institutions and the rise of authoritarian responses. Students will also engage with debates around the limits of reform, the crisis of alternatives, and the political viability of proposals such as the Green New Deal or new forms of social democracy. Through case studies, theoretical debates, and future-oriented analysis, the module equips students to critically understand the politics of crisis and grapple with the possibilities and constraints of governance in an age of systematic disruptions.

Assessment Proportions

The assessment will be a crisis case study. Students select a specific crisis (e.g. democratic backsliding, care crisis, climate governance breakdown) and examine its roots, how particular institutions or actors have responded, and the prospects for resolution.

• 100% crisis case study, ~3150-3005 words

POIR6003: Russia and China

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This course unpacks the socio-political currents of two dynamic actors in world politics - the People’s Republic of China and the Russian Federation. It is divided into two sections. The first section critically evaluates the application of familiar concepts like modernity, legitimacy, nationalism and capitalism in understanding China under Xi Jinping. The second section examines the emergence of President Putin’s Russia before assessing implications of the consolidation of his power for Russian domestic and foreign policies. The aim of this section is to critically assess reasons for the deterioration of Russia’s relations with the West. The course concludes with a comparison of China’s and Russia’s political directions and the implications for their role in a gradually changing world (dis) order.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Understand the evolution of China’s and Russia’s political systems and societies.
2. Discuss implications of these changes for citizens and civil society in China and Russia.
3. Identify linkages China’s and Russia’s political and societal developments with their foreign policies.
4. Examine the concept of norm contestation in China’s and Russia’s relations with the West.
5. Distinguish Chinese and Russian political and social developments in relation to common social scientific constructs including modernity, capitalism, legitimacy and identity.

Outline Syllabus

1. What are key differences and similarities in China’s and Russia’s governance, compared with each other, and with other political systems?
2. What are implications of these differences and similarities for China’s and Russia’s domestic political futures? s
3. What are implications of these differences and similarities for China’s and Russia’s foreign policies?
4. How did the political and economic transformations from the Soviet Union to Russia, and from Maoism to China’s “socialist market economy,” unfold?
5. How have China and Russia’s self-images been changing, and how are they perceived by other actors in international politics?
6. To what extent did Russia’s and China’s internal political and economic transformations facilitate or hamper their relations with other actors?
7. What is the current state and direction of Russia’s and China’s relations with the US, NATO and their neighbours in Europe and Asia?
8. How and why is the China-Russia relationship evolving?

Assessment Proportions

The course is designed with the intention that students will work throughout the term towards a substantial final research essay on a topic of their choosing, developed through the term. From week 2 onward, each of the weekly topics is designed to overlap with the others in order that each student can read and discuss texts relevant to their intended research essay.

Students thereby receive weekly formative feedback as their ideas develop throughout the term, and in turn, broaden the perspective of others in the class by choosing readings related to their own chosen angle on the topic.

• 100% essay, ~3150 words

POIR6004: Politics of Latin America and Africa

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

Latin America and Africa are two of the most dynamic, yet, overlooked regions in contemporary international society. This module aims to explore their shared colonial history, which continues to shape their political economies, post-colonial politics and policy-making, and rich cultural life. This is seen in their role as primary commodity exporters in the global economy, extensive ongoing external intervention, corruption, inequality, poverty, internal violence, social movements, electoral populism, deep religiosity, and creative renewal.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to…

1. Critically analyse how European colonialism brought Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America together resulting in ongoing, multi-faceted processes of development and underdevelopment.
2. Familiarise themselves with both canonical and recent writers from the regions and interrogate the post-colonial politics of knowledge production and intersectional epistemic injustice.
3. Apply theories introduced and explored in the module from postcolonialism, dependency theory, world systems analysis, democratisation, populism, and conflict studies.
4. Confidently undertake independent research projects both in terms of generating ideas and arguments and in terms of how and where to find appropriate sources.

Outline Syllabus

This course will examine how both regions were brought together by sixteenth century European colonialism for its own economic, political and cultural development as well as how their current socio-economic and political processes are conditioned by external intervention and influence. On the question of Latin America, the module will focus on the region’s specific brand of politics marked by strongman culture, complex civil-military relations, the role played by religion in both the societal and the political arena, the debilitating effect of non-state violence in the process of governance and how the continent’s internal socio-economic and political developments have been marred by external actors; most notably the United States. The module will explore the literature and debates on the export of primary commodities, ‘extractivism’, beginning with key texts by Eduardo Galeano from Latin America and Walter Rodney from the Caribbean and Africa.? We will also draw on Emmanuel Wallerstein’s World Systems theory.? This will provide a basis for understanding contemporary forms of extractivism and attempts to counter this with industrialisation, ‘neo-extractivism’ and China’s demand for natural resources from both regions and the alliances formed.? We will look at the critiques from the perspective of those who have suffered the most, for example indigenous people excluded from ‘development’.?? We will draw on examples from mineral- and oil-rich countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Ghana and Ecuador. Introduction – Framing Latin America and Africa

1. Civil Military Relations
2. Politics of populism
3. Role of religion
4. Corruption
5. Non-state violence
6. External intervention (the US in Latin America)

1. Africa’s Incorporation into the World System
2. Colonialism: Economy, State and Ideology
3. Anti-colonialism, Independence and Industrialisation
4. Neoliberalism and Extractivism
5. China and Neo-Extractivism
6. Alternative Models of Development

Assessment Proportions

The mode of assessment for this module is 100% coursework. Given that this is a Year 3 module, we encourage our students to undertake independent research.

As part of independent research undertaking, students are required to answer 2 questions from a set of 12 essay questions (the list is not exclusive). Each essay should be of 3,000 words covering one of the regions concerned (i.e., 1 essay on Latin America + 1 essay on Africa). The answer should reflect the student’s deep critical exploration of the chosen topic while expressing originality, independent thinking and engagement with the existing body of knowledge.

POIR6005: Europe and America

• Terms Taught: Lent/Summer term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to:

• To examine the longstanding and important relationship between the European Union and the United States
• To encourage students to develop appropriate scholarly and theoretical frameworks for understanding the effectiveness of the transatlantic alliance
• To develop writing and verbal skills within the context of a class that focuses on two of the world’s most important superpowers
• Critically and reflexively evaluate the assumptions, values, and potential biases that shape their role in International Relations

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to:

1. Engage with the key state of the art political science and international relations literature on Brussels-Washington relations
2. Utilise relevant academic and policy sources to analyse effectively the key aspects of EU-US relations

Outline Syllabus

This class examines two of the world’s most important powers - the European Union (EU) and the United States (US). The transatlantic alliance was forged post-war and remains one of the most important globally despite current challenges. The module provides an introduction to the EU’s normative power and its attempts to upload its distinctive European values internationally:

• what exactly are European rights and values, and what is the ‘European way of life’?
• how do the institutions and laws of the EU impact upon its neighbourhood and foreign policy?
• as Europe increasingly turns to security issues, how realistic is President Macron’s proposal for a European army to replace long-established American hard power?

The module will then go on to look at the US as the pre-eminent global superpower. In particular, key dynamics of EU-US relations will be explored and scrutinised:

• how has the Trump presidency affected the relationship between Brussels and Washington
• is there evidence of America stepping back more profoundly from its close ties with Europe?
• what are the long term prospects for the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), still of vital importance to Central and Eastern Europe states

International relations between the United States and European Union has an impact not just on these two regions but globally - both liberal democracies, American hard power traditionally compliments European soft power but to what extent will the twenty first century witness a fundamental shift in this relationship?

Assessment Proportions

• 50% examination, 1 hour
• 50% essay, ~1500 words

POIR6006: Politics of the Middle East and Asia Pacific

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

• To examine and analyse the political systems of the states in Asia and the Middle East against the backdrop of the colonial (and pre-colonial) history.
• To examine and analyze the key security concerns of Asia and the Middle East.
• To examine the basis of political identities, the nature of nationalism and sub nationalism and their implications for the nation-state, regional stability, peace, co-operation and development.
• To critically analyse the foreign policies of all the major states in the Middle East and Asia, their relations with world powers and the rest of the world.
• To study the growth and evaluate the success of regional co-operation in Asia and the Middle East and impediments to further co-operation.
• To identify the economic challenges of Asia and the Middle East and explore alternative approaches to dealing with them, and to critically analyse Asia's/Middle East's position in the global economy.

Educational Aims

Upon successful completion of this module students will be able to have:

1. An appreciation and understanding of the impact of colonial rule on the region
2. An ability to critically analyse the political systems of various states in Asia and the Middle East, and compare and contrast them with each other
3. An ability to evaluate the foreign policies of the rising powers in the region
4. A knowledge of regional integration theories and the ability to use them to analyse the efforts to promote regional co-operation in Asia and the Middle East
5. An ability to analyse political identities in Asia and the Middle East using theories of nationalism, ethnicity and the literature on identities in IR
6. An ability to identify the economic challenges and security concerns of the region and critically comment on the efforts being made to deal with them
7. An ability to apply IR theory to the analysis of Asian/Middle Eastern politics and in the process develop and/or critique it

Outline Syllabus

The course critically examines the politics and history of the Middle East and the Asia Pacific, focusing on how these regions have been historically constructed and contested. We will explore themes such as the impact of colonial legacies on the region, key security concerns, the rise of authoritarianism/political hybridity, gender and sexuality, religious identity, the position of minorities in the region, social movements, changing forms of bureaucracy and governance, regionalism and the impact of globalisation, just to mention a few. Since many of the states in the region have adopted western political institutions, it is important to inquire if these are working satisfactorily and if they are not, what is the alternative? This necessitates an examination of the political systems.

However, in order to further our understanding of Asian and Middle Eastern politics we also need to look at ethnicity and nationalism in the region. An examination of the relations between the states in the region as well as their relations with the rest of the world is important in understanding the foreign policy goals of each state and their contribution to the region's overall development. Important issues that also need to be examined include efforts to promote regional co-operation and the Middle East's and Asia’s role in the global political economy. Finally, through comparative case studies, students will be introduced to the diversity of political systems and experiences across the two regions whilst also looking at areas of similarity and difference. The module offers a flexible framework that responds to contemporary global developments and challenges, and supports critical reflection on state, society, and regional identity.

Assessment Proportions

• 100% essay, ~3000 words

POIR6007: The Politics of Borders and Migration

• Terms Taught: Michaelmas term
• US Credits: 5
• ECTS Credits: 10 ECTS
• Pre-requisites: None

Course Description

This module aims to:

1. Equip students with analytical tools to critically engage with migration as a key political issue of our time.
2. Develop students' understanding of the complex dynamics of human mobility across international borders.
3. Enable students to identify and analyse the gap between political rhetoric and policy implementation in migration governance.
4. Foster critical assessment of the diverse impacts of migration on both origin and destination countries.
5. Examine the tensions between border control policies and human rights principles.
6. Engage students with cutting-edge research from political science, international relations, and related disciplines, tied to overall programme objectives.
7. Prepare students to participate meaningfully in informed public discourse about migration governance in an increasingly interconnected world.

Educational Aims

Knowledge and UnderstandingBy the end of this module, students will be able to:

1. Critically analyse the key political debates surrounding migration and border control in the UK and other Global North countries.
2. Evaluate the empirical evidence on migration's impacts on both sending and receiving countries.
3. Identify and explain the gap between political rhetoric and policy implementation in migration governance.
4. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of migration as both a human rights issue and a matter of state sovereignty.

Key Transferable SkillsBy the end of this module, students will be able to:

1. Develop well-structured arguments that engage with complex ethical and political questions.
2. Critically evaluate media and political claims about migration using robust evidence.
3. Communicate effectively about sensitive political issues with awareness of diverse perspectives.
4. Engage constructively in debates that involve competing normative frameworks and empirical claims.

Outline Syllabus

In the United Kingdom and in most of the Global North the movement of people across international borders is a key political issue of our time. The public, researchers and politicians across the political spectrum participate in passionate debates about immigration. Political parties make strong claims about how they would “manage” or “cut” migration, recognising that it is top voting issue. Meanwhile, the systematic study of human movement supplies us with robust evidence concerning such questions as:

• Is migration desirable or not?
• How should we understand its effects on origin and destination countries?
• How to address it in policy terms?
• Why do we see gaps between what politicians say on immigration and what they do?
• Is migration a matter of human rights?
• What is the relationship between capitalism and immigration policy—and how does immigration reshape capitalism?
• Why do political parties struggle with immigration? How is public opinion on immigration shaped?
• Can border control be reconciled with respect for the rights of people on the move?

Drawing on cutting edge research in political science, IR and cognate disciplines this module prepares students for informed participation in the unfolding societal debate on what it means to inhabit a world on the move.

Assessment Proportions

• 25% in-class presentation, ~5 minutes
• 75% research essay, ~2300 words