International Relations and Global Diplomacy Fall 2018
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is a principal training arm of the United Nations, working in every region of the world. We empower individuals, governments and organizations through knowledge and learning to effectively overcome contemporary global challenges.
UNITAR offers various training and capacity-development activities in the thematic areas of Capacity for the 2030 Agenda, Strengthen multilateralism; Promote economic development and social inclusion; Advance environmental sustainability and green development; Promote sustainable peace; and Research and Technology Applications.
Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.
Collegiate Internationals (CI) is an international student-run project for international students, and an initiative of Collegiate Congress. As a leading student advocacy organization, Collegiate Congress is a Non-Governmental Organization comprising representatives of college student governments. By developing a cohesive voice, Collegiate Congress aims to educate and advocate on behalf of otherwise separated constituents.
Collegiate Internationals works in the same way, if with a more specific constituent. Like its parent organization, CI works to serve the interests of all international students at New york City’s many universities. It seeks to assist with their unique circumstances. further, the spirit of Collegiate Internationals promotes oneness and unity among diverse cultures. We believe that in a globalized society it is vital to both be proud of one’s culture, and work best understand those of others.
Collegiate Congress’ mission is to empower young people through socio-political knowledge. We emphasize the role students can and should play in the political process, and promote their involvement in social and political activities. The need for this investment in the leaders of tomorrow is not exclusive to New york City, of course, but remains a pressing concern all over the world. Within higher education, there has been a well-noted drift away from college as a social good. The promotion of more market-minded studies at the expense of social studies and the humanities serve as an example of this drift. Like the U.N., Collegiate Congress values higher education partly for its ability to develop an active and engaged citizenry.
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research developed a curriculum that sees a brighter future through diplomacy. This newly-designed program allows students to listen to and learn about international relations and politics from those actively engaged in these fields — the diplomats themselves. Envisioned for students currently enrolled in Political Science, International Relations, Urban Affairs, or a similar academic program, the desire to better understand world affairs is a must. As well as those who envision a career in diplomacy.
Unit I: Academic
1. UN Study: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
-This program gives the opportunity to learn about the UN and organs. The main highlight will be the teaching on SDG’s and their objectives.
- This program provides the thorough understanding of UN functions, especially the SDG’s.
- Update on SDG’s and its functionalities.
- Help concentrate on specific UN objectives related with the Sustainable Development goal and Sustainable Developments.
- Shape the brain of tomorrow’s international relations actors, contributing to re-establish the UN leadership in the long term.
- The students will get the chance to witness UN forums and meetings which
2. Current Global Issues
-This section is about current global issues. These are topics relevant to students pursuing in related programs. They will be given upto-date summary on these issues and the steps taken to solve and improve the situation: we want UNITAR high skilled formation in conflict resolution to be accessible for the actors of tomorrow.
- Tackle critical political, economic, and social issues
- Gain personal experience of the diplomats on certain global issues
- Assess news media and social media influence on global issues
- Consider innovative solutions to contemporary the realities of international relations
3.Diplomacy and Global Treaties
-This course should teach students about global diplomacy, negotiations and conflict resolution. This comprises; formation of UN, diplomatic relationship, alliances formed, and peacekeeping.
- Better understand national and international governance
- Appreciate the perspective of a diplomat regarding global issues
- Gain first-hand learning experience from a diplomat involved in an initiative or negotiation
- Understand agreements and coalitions among countries
- Gain insight on the WTO, IMF, and ICC, among other organizations
Unit Two: Practical :
Attendance at U.N. Events, Including U.N. General Assembly Session(s)
A rare glimpse at the inner workings of the UN, students will observe the diplomatic process within a real-world setting.
- Observe the diplomatic process in a real-world setting as it happens
- Develop understanding of core functions of UN in practice
- Contextualize diplomacy as it happens as opposed to hypothetical scenarios
- Witness global leaders and understand their visions for a better world
The International Relations and Global Diplomacy Program is comprised of 2-3 hour duration courses, held once a week for ten weeks. This program will be conducted three times a year on trimester basis: Spring, Summer, and fall. These courses will be taught by distinguished Ambassadors and high level UN Officials. This program is designed for students pursuing political science, international relations, global studies or related programs and are in their senior year in undergraduate, and any in Masters/ Graduate program. Research students can also apply. Students within commuting distance may also apply. Students of the program will earn a Certificate of Completion
This program targets delegates to the United Nations, national change agents and students who are currently enrolled in Political Science, International Relations, Urban Affairs, or a similar academic programs ranging from the undergraduate level to any Masters/Graduate Progam. Research students can also apply.
Course Schedule
1. UN Study; 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and Sustainable Development Goals
9 hours (once a week for three weeks)
2. Current Global Issues
12 hours (once a week for four weeks)
3. Diplomacy and Global Treaties
12 hours (once a week for four weeks)
1: Attendance at U.N. Events, Including U.N. General Assembly Session(s)
Available upon registration.
2: Final Project Submission
Final day of Class.