POL466H1S L0101
Graduate Course Code: POL2207H1S L0101
Topics in International Politics III
Advanced Topics in International Security
Themes
At its heart, this course is about the international dimensions of civil wars. As a result, the questions discussed in this course lie at the nexus between International Relations and Comparative Politics. How are ethnic identities activated and mobilized in civil wars? If identity-based conflicts are “contagious,” what are the mechanisms through which domestic conflicts spread across borders? Looking at the conflict processes on the ground, can these violent processes be contained? What are the legal criteria for intervening in these conflicts? What are the potential hazards of international interventions in these complex conflict zones, both from an operational standpoint and in terms of long-term stabilization goals? What are the obstacles and opportunities in negotiating peace?
To answer these questions, this course engages the literatures on ethnic conflict, civil wars, international interventions, negotiated settlements, irredentism and separatism, and war economies. This course is an advanced fourth year undergraduate seminar that assumes a strong foundation in International Relations theory, and previous coursework in International Security. Reading, writing, teamwork, participation, and presentations are required. There is no final exam.
Texts
Academic articles only. All resources are available online. No books are required for purchase.
Format and Requirements
Pop Quizzes: 10%; Précises: 10%; Team lead: 10%; Participation: 20%; Research paper proposal: 10%; Research presentation: 10%; Final paper: 30%
Prerequisites
POL208H1 or POL208Y1 or POL209H5 or POLB80H3