The course seeks to provide students with deeper understanding of how international institutions function within the global system. It examines the historical developments of international institutions in the context of the rise of the nation-states. The course also discusses the types, nature and key activities of international organizations. The course highlights and analyses some of the major policy areas that tend to drive the activities of international institutions such as security, trade, finance, economic development, the environment and humanitarian assistance. It directs the discussion to institutions such as the United Nations (UN), North American Trade Organization (NATO), European Union (EU), Commonwealth of Nations, African Union (AU), Association of South-East Asian Organization (ASEAO), International Rescue Committee, Green Peace Organization, World Health Organization (WHO), World Trade Organization (WTO), and the International Labour Organization, among others. It attempts to analyze these organizations’ internal and external operations in order to evaluate their impact on nation-states. The mode of teaching involves a blend of lecturer-led classroom delivery with students’ seminar presentations and practitioners’ experience-sharing in order to stimulate students’ participation. It further explores IT tools such as power-points, and audio visuals to enhance students’ understanding of the issues. When students have completed this course, they would develop the required skills that enable them to analyze the impact of international organizations on nations and the individual.
LEGON CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS AND DIPLOMACY.
