This course introduces students to diplomacy as a distinct area of study. It opens by analysing classical accounts of diplomacy as consisting of a process of dialogue and negotiation between agents of the state, and proceeds to examine how processes of globalisation and fragmentation have affected the nature of diplomatic activity.

Particular attention is paid to three aspects of transnational diplomacy:

1. The developments of cross-border partnerships between state and non-state actors in setting and promoting multilateral political agendas;
2. The contribution of formalised ‘second-track’ diplomacy to the management of relations between states, and between state and non-state actors; and
3. The involvement of professional diplomats in rebuilding disrupted states.

The course draws extensively on concrete examples to highlight recent changes in diplomatic practice, and explores political, legal and ethical questions to which the changing character of diplomacy gives rise.

This course, which sets the scene for the remaining three courses which form part of the Master of Diplomacy degree, will introduce students to diplomacy as a distinct area of study. It analyses classical accounts of diplomacy as consisting of a process of dialogue and negotiation between agents of the state, and proceeds to examine how processes of globalisation and fragmentation have affected the nature of diplomatic activity. Particular attention is paid to three aspects of transnational diplomacy: (1) the developments of  cross-border partnerships between state and non-state actors in setting and promoting multilateral political agendas; (2) the contribution of formalised ‘second-track’ diplomacy to the management of relations between states, and between state and non-state actors; and (3) the involvement of professional diplomats in rebuilding disrupted states. The course draws extensively on concrete examples to highlight  recent  changes in diplomatic practice, and explores political, legal and ethical questions to which the changing character of diplomacy gives rise.

Written work of 6000 words, and a take-home exam

Students undertaking this course could expect a workload of 20 hours per week.  This is inclusive of actual contact hours for lectures and also out of class preparation time.