By: DiploFoundation
Why do we need diplomats?
Diplomats are members of a profession developed over many centuries. But why do we still need them in a world transformed by electronic communications? This course examines the nature of diplomacy; when it is appropriate; the advantages and disadvantages of different diplomatic methods; and the lexicon of diplomacy.
The materials for this course were developed by Prof. GR Berridge, based on his book Diplomacy: Theory and Practice, now in its 5th edition. Prof. Berridge is an Emeritus Professor of International Politics at the University of Leicester and a DiploFoundation Senior Fellow; read more, including his current blog postings, on his website.
Programme details
What will you learn?- Describe and explain with clarity the shape and functions of the contemporary world diplomatic system.
- Identify and describe the different stages of negotiations, the objectives for each stage, and techniques for securing agreement, providing examples from diplomatic practice.
- Compare and contrast the various missions, offices, conferences, techniques and procedures of bilateral and multilateral diplomacy.
- Analyse what contributes to successful mediation.
- Justify the role of summits and their place in the negotiating arena.
- Defend the value of diplomacy with authority and enthusiasm.
- 1 week of course introduction and orientation to online learning
- 8 weeks of addressing the course topics one by one (see below for more details)
- 1 week for the final assignment and completing pending tasks