Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction

An overview of the MOOC

The UN Today: what is it?

This week will introduce the idea of the United Nations as a system of more-or-less connected agencies that exist to address a wide range of world problems, and provide an overview of how different parts fit together to constitute the modern United Nations system.

Where did the United Nations come from, and why?

This week will provide an overview of the historical circumstances of the beginning of the UN – what early UN agencies were, what were the influential powers and groups at the early negotiations, and what values the UN was founded on, with comparisons to modern-day approaches.

Power in international politics: how does the UN Security Council work?

This week will use the UN Security Council as a primer to the issue of relative power in international institutions. After examining the structure and operations of the Council, it will encourage students to examine the fundamental issues that determine its existence, including the status of the five permanent members, its ability to carry out its function, and the prospects for reform.

What is the place of human rights in international politics?

This week will address the question of human rights at the UN, introducing the basic documents and declarations that underpin much UN activity. It will introduce the wide range of UN declarations on this topic, how they came about, and then examine potential criticisms of modern UN conceptions of human rights- highlighting revolutionary work on the origins and practice of human rights from our research groups. The non-Western origins of sex equality in the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of HR changed the understanding of women’s rights to one where they are created by women from the South. In parallel, the war crimes narrative focused on the Nazi leadership is transformed by understanding that there was a UN body including China and India that resulted in convictions of thousands of Nazis and Japanese war criminals. This work features in an HBO Documentary, a Ted Talk on the UN women issue and Netflix and Amazon/Ch4 documentaries featuring the war crimes research.

Emergency help: how does the UN respond to crises?

This week will introduce the family of UN agencies involved in humanitarian work, and begin to unpack their relationships with each other and role in responding to conflict.

Where next for the UN? [OPTIONAL]

In this week, students will have a chance to review and draw together what they have learned over the previous weeks, and develop analysis skills when assessing how different priorities. This exercise will also introduce the issue of practicality and organisational politics to it, giving students an opportunity to consider how the issues they have examined might be affected by the process of implementation.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Covers unique perspectives and ideas that may add color to other topics and subjects

Develops professional skills or deep expertise in a particular topic or set of topics

Takes a creative approach to an otherwise established topic, field, or subject

Offers a comprehensive study of one aspect of history, the arts, or the human condition

Builds a strong foundation for beginners

Taught by Dr Dan Plesch, who are recognized for their work in the topic that the course teaches

Reviews summary

Un in the world

learners say the course "Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World" offers an in-depth understanding of the UN through its historical evolution, functions, challenges, and successes. The course covers a wide range of topics, including peacekeeping, conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and human rights advocacy. Through a variety of readings, videos, and discussions, learners are encouraged to critically analyze the effectiveness of UN policies and initiatives in addressing pressing global challenges. Additionally, the course fosters critical thinking and analytical skills by encouraging discussion and group projects. Overall, learners report that the course provides a solid foundation in the principles, practices, and challenges of international diplomacy, equipping them with knowledge and skills for navigating the complex dynamics of global governance.

The course offers opportunities for interactive learning through online forums, group projects, and simulations of UN meetings, allowing learners to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios and develop diplomatic skills.

"Through online forums, group projects, and simulations of UN meetings, students have the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, honing their diplomatic skills and understanding the practical challenges of multilateral diplomacy."

The course emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills by encouraging learners to evaluate the effectiveness of UN policies and initiatives in addressing global challenges.

"One of the course's highlights is its emphasis on interactive learning and student engagement."

"By engaging with complex issues such as the Security Council's veto power, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and human rights violations, students gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of diplomatic practice and the limitations of international institutions in achieving their objectives."

Learners appreciate the course's comprehensive coverage of the UN's diverse functions in the world, including its roles in peacekeeping, conflict resolution, humanitarian aid, and human rights advocacy.

"From peacekeeping operations and conflict resolution to humanitarian aid and human rights advocacy, the course covers a broad range of topics, allowing students to explore the diverse dimensions of diplomatic engagement and international cooperation."

The course provides a thorough overview of the UN's history and evolution, giving learners a solid understanding of the organization's origins, mandates, and transformations over time.

"The course begins by grounding us with the historical evolution of the UN and then gradually progresses into its functions, responsibilities, successes, and challenges."

"This systematic approach allowed me to understand the larger context and intricacies of the global diplomatic landscape."

Some learners report that certain course readings and resources may be outdated, which affects the overall learning experience and the accuracy of the information presented.

"You will learn more about international relations theory than you would expect, but it is all contextually appropriate."

"The only thing that bothered me about this course was that some readers were no longer available in the readings reference page, that is why not five stars."

"Some of the videos and articles were no longer available on the link provided, perhapos needs to be updated."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World with these activities:

Review research methods and their applications

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Prepare yourself for this course by reviewing foundational research methods and techniques to strengthen the skills you will leverage throughout this course.

Browse courses on Research Methods

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Review the course syllabus and identify the key research methods and techniques that will be covered.
Read relevant textbooks and articles on research methods and their applications.
Attend a workshop or online tutorial on research methods.
Practice applying research methods to real-world problems.

Review: 'A History of the United Nations'

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Build historical context and gain an understanding of the origins and development of the United Nations.

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Read Chapters 1-3
Take notes on the founding principles, key players, and early mandates of the UN.
Consider how the historical context has shaped the UN's role in international affairs.

Attend: 'UN in Action: A Panel Discussion'

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Gain insights from experts and practitioners on current UN initiatives and challenges.

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Identify a relevant panel discussion or workshop.
Register and attend the event.
Take notes and ask questions during the discussion.

Five other activities

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Create: United Nations Fact Sheet

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Synthesize your understanding of the United Nations by creating a concise fact sheet summarizing its key functions and accomplishments.

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Research the different roles and responsibilities of the UN.
Select the most relevant information to include.
Create a visually engaging and informative fact sheet.

Join: UN Study Group

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Engage with fellow students to discuss course topics, share perspectives, and enhance comprehension.

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Find or create a study group with other students taking the course.
Set regular meeting times and establish a discussion schedule.
Take turns leading discussions and presenting summaries.

Practice: UN Security Council Simulations

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Develop critical thinking, negotiation, and diplomacy skills by participating in mock UN Security Council debates.

Browse courses on United Nations

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Join or form a team to represent a specific country.
Research the country's foreign policy and interests.
Prepare arguments and strategies for different scenarios.

Mentor: Guide New Students in UN Studies

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Enhance your own understanding while supporting others by mentoring new students interested in UN studies.

Browse courses on United Nations

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Join a mentorship program or reach out to students who may benefit from your guidance.
Provide guidance on course selection, research methods, and career opportunities.
Share your experiences and insights to help new students navigate the field.

Create: Policy Brief on a UN Issue

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Develop your policy analysis and critical thinking skills by creating a well-researched policy brief addressing a pressing UN-related issue.

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Identify a specific UN-related issue that you are interested in.
Research the issue thoroughly, gathering data and evidence.
Develop policy recommendations and justify your proposals.

Career center

Learners who complete Global Diplomacy: the United Nations in the World will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Diplomat

Diplomats represent their countries' interests in foreign nations. They negotiate with foreign officials, report on political and economic conditions, and promote their countries' cultures. This course would be helpful for aspiring diplomats because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in global diplomacy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Diplomat

Foreign Service Officer

Foreign service officers represent the United States government in foreign countries. They work to promote American interests and values, and to protect American citizens abroad. This course would be helpful for aspiring foreign service officers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in global diplomacy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Service Officer

International Relations Analyst

International relations analysts study and report on global political, economic, and social trends. They provide advice to governments and businesses on how to respond to these trends. This course would be helpful for aspiring international relations analysts because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in global affairs.

See salaries and explore the career path for International Relations Analyst

Human Rights Officer

Human rights officers work to protect and promote human rights around the world. They investigate human rights violations, provide assistance to victims, and advocate for policy changes. This course would be helpful for aspiring human rights officers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting human rights.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Rights Officer

Development Officer

Development officers work to improve the lives of people in developing countries. They design and implement programs that address a variety of issues, such as poverty, hunger, and disease. This course would be helpful for aspiring development officers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Development Officer

Peacebuilder

Peacebuilders work to prevent and resolve conflict around the world. They work with governments, civil society organizations, and other actors to build peace and stability. This course would be helpful for aspiring peacebuilders because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting peace.

See salaries and explore the career path for Peacebuilder

Journalist

Journalists report on current events. They write, edit, and produce news stories for newspapers, magazines, and websites. This course would be helpful for aspiring journalists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in global affairs.

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Historian

Historians study the past. They research and write about historical events, people, and cultures. This course would be helpful for aspiring historians because it provides a comprehensive overview of the history of the United Nations and its role in global affairs.

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Political Scientist

Political scientists study politics and government. They research political institutions, processes, and behavior. This course would be helpful for aspiring political scientists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in global politics.

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Sociologist

Sociologists study society. They research social institutions, processes, and behavior. This course would be helpful for aspiring sociologists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting social development.

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Environmental Scientist

Environmental scientists study the environment. They research environmental issues, develop environmental policies, and work to protect the environment. This course would be helpful for aspiring environmental scientists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting environmental sustainability.

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Lawyer

Lawyers provide legal advice and representation to clients. They work in a variety of fields, including criminal law, civil law, and international law. This course would be helpful for aspiring lawyers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in international law.

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Economist

Economists study the economy. They research economic trends, develop economic models, and make economic forecasts. This course would be helpful for aspiring economists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting economic development.

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Anthropologist

Anthropologists study human beings. They research human cultures, societies, and languages. This course would be helpful for aspiring anthropologists because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting cultural diversity.

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Geographer

Geographers study the Earth. They research the physical and human geography of the world. This course would be helpful for aspiring geographers because it provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations system and its role in promoting sustainable development.

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