Master of Social Science in Diplomacy and International Relations (MSSDIR)

M-412: Introduction to Diplomacy [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This foundational module explores the art and practice of diplomacy as the primary instrument of international relations. It examines the historical evolution of diplomacy from its classical forms to modern digital and public diplomacy. Students will analyze the functions of diplomatic agents, the structure of foreign ministries and embassies, and the processes of negotiation, communication, and representation in both bilateral and multilateral contexts.

Objectives:

1. Trace the historical development of diplomacy from ancient times to the contemporary era.

2. Understand the legal status, functions, and privileges of diplomatic agents and missions.

3. Analyze the core processes of diplomatic negotiation, mediation, and crisis communication.

4. Evaluate the role and challenges of multilateral diplomacy in international organizations.

5. Assess the impact of digital technology and public opinion on modern diplomatic practice.

M-413: International Relations Theory [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module provides a comprehensive survey of the major theoretical paradigms that explain state behavior and the structure of the international system. It critically engages with Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Marxism, and feminist approaches, among others. Students will learn to apply these theoretical lenses to analyze historical events and contemporary global issues, developing a nuanced understanding of power, anarchy, cooperation, identity, and norms in world politics.

Objectives:

1. Identify and compare the core assumptions and propositions of major IR theories.

2. Apply theoretical frameworks to explain state behavior, conflict, and cooperation.

3. Critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different theoretical approaches.

4. Analyze how norms, ideas, and identities shape international outcomes.

5. Synthesize theoretical insights to construct coherent analytical arguments about global affairs.

M-414: International Conflict and Peacebuilding [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module investigates the causes, dynamics, and resolution of international and intrastate conflicts. It moves from theories of conflict onset and escalation to the practical tools of conflict management, including mediation, peacekeeping, and arbitration. A significant focus is placed on post-conflict peacebuilding, examining strategies for reconciliation, security sector reform, transitional justice, and sustainable institutional development to prevent relapse into violence.

Objectives:

1. Diagnose the root causes and different phases of contemporary armed conflicts.

2. Evaluate the effectiveness of third-party interventions, including mediation and UN peace operations.

3. Design comprehensive post-conflict peacebuilding and state-building strategies.

4. Analyze the roles of transitional justice mechanisms and reconciliation processes.

5. Assess the challenges of building sustainable peace in fragmented societies.

M-415: Comparative Politics [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module provides the analytical tools to systematically compare political systems, institutions, and processes across different countries and regions. It examines varieties of regimes (democratic and authoritarian), electoral systems, executive-legislative relations, party systems, and the role of civil society. The course emphasizes understanding how different political structures shape policy outcomes, stability, and development.

Objectives:

1. Apply the methodological framework of comparative political analysis.

2. Compare and contrast different regime types and their institutional configurations.

3. Analyze the impact of electoral systems and party dynamics on political representation.

4. Evaluate the relationship between political institutions, governance, and economic development.

5. Examine the causes and consequences of democratization and democratic backsliding.

M-416: International Political Economy [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module explores the interplay between politics and economics in the global arena. It analyzes the structures and actors that govern the world economy, including trade regimes, international financial institutions, multinational corporations, and states. Key topics include theories of IPE, globalization, development finance, economic sanctions, and the politics of trade wars and economic inequality.

Objectives:

1. Critically assess the main theoretical perspectives in International Political Economy (IPE).

2. Analyze the rules, institutions, and power dynamics of the global trade and financial systems.

3. Evaluate the political motivations and consequences of economic statecraft (e.g., sanctions).

4. Examine the role of multinational corporations and non-state actors in the global economy.

5. Investigate the relationship between globalization, inequality, and domestic politics.

M-417: Human Rights and International Justice [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module examines the international human rights framework and the evolving system of global justice. It covers the development of international human rights law, key treaties and declarations, and the mechanisms for protection and enforcement. The module also investigates international criminal law, the role of tribunals (ICC, ICJ, ad hoc courts), and contemporary debates on humanitarian intervention, accountability, and universal jurisdiction.

Objectives:

1. Map the historical development and legal foundations of the international human rights regime.

2. Analyze the functions and effectiveness of UN and regional human rights bodies.

3. Evaluate the principles and operational challenges of international criminal justice.

4. Critically debate the tensions between state sovereignty and the responsibility to protect (R2P).

5. Assess contemporary challenges to human rights, including in contexts of terrorism and new technologies.

M-418: International Development [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module critically engages with the theories, policies, and practices of international development. It explores the historical trajectory of development thought, from modernization to dependency and sustainable development. Students will analyze key issues such as poverty, aid architecture, debt, the role of NGOs, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the critique of mainstream development paradigms.

Objectives:

1. Trace the evolution of major theories and paradigms in development studies.

2. Evaluate the structure, effectiveness, and politics of international aid and development finance.

3. Analyze the central challenges of poverty, inequality, and sustainable development.

4. Critically assess the roles and accountability of key actors (states, multilateral agencies, NGOs).

5. Design a coherent development policy framework addressing a specific global challenge.

M-419: Research Methods in International Relations [9 ECTS]

Introduction:
This module provides the essential methodological toolkit for conducting rigorous research in International Relations and Diplomacy. It covers both qualitative (case studies, process-tracing, discourse analysis) and quantitative (basic statistics, data interpretation) methods. Emphasis is placed on research design, ethical considerations, sourcing reliable data, and crafting a compelling research proposal as a direct precursor to the Action Research Paper.

Objectives:

1. Formulate clear, feasible, and significant research questions in IR.

2. Design a robust and ethical research methodology appropriate to the research question.

3. Apply key qualitative and/or quantitative data collection and analysis techniques.

4. Critically evaluate scholarly literature and primary sources.

5. Produce a detailed and academically sound research proposal.

M-420: Action Research Paper [18 ECTS]