Diplomacy, Negotiation, Mediation

This course provides an introduction to diplomacy, mediation and negotiation in the 21st Century. We follow two key premises: firstly, we emphasize the agentic role of diplomacy in making world politics – far from simply a way in which states talk to one another, diplomatic practices shape international relations, from international law, security, humanitarianism, to health, and migration. Our second premise is that many conflicts and crises can be settled without a violent clash (sanctions, interruption of diplomatic commerce or even resort to arms) if actors employ appropriate diplomatic methods. Thus, we examine how the mix of deterrence, reassurance, confidence building, material rewards, punishments and recognition strongly impact on the settlement of a dispute.