UN Simulation & Negotiation

This course will focus on the acquisition of core practical skills required to work in international professional environments, be they linked to foreign policy, diplomacy, or international organizations and NGOs. At the core of this course are primary sources – students will learn not only how to research and interpret historical documents such as policy memos, resolutions, transcripts of conversations, speeches, etc. but, importantly, how to also create them.  This course will therefore raise their awareness of the fact that the sources they usually study merely as static historical objects have actually been part of a dynamic process, which was intended to shape the future rather than reflect the past.  Each week, we will use a real historical case study to simulate ‘crisis’ situations – interventions (both covert and military), humanitarian crises, nuclear peace negotiations, etc. – in order to develop the research, communication (both oral and written) and presentation skills required for professionals operating in international environments.  Each of these exercises is meant as a ‘building block’ in developing the skills necessary to participate the in the final and most extensive simulation of the course – a UN Security Council meeting to adopt a resolution in a real-life humanitarian crisis.  Student attendance in all seminars and exercises is therefore imperative, as they gain the skills and knowledge to participate in the Security Council simulation, which is the culmination of the course.