The general goal of the course is to provide students with an overview of contemporary diplomacy, with special emphasis on negotiation and mediation, guiding them through relevant debates, conceptual approaches and practical implications. The course aims to raise awareness of the mutual interaction between theory and practice within the realm of international negotiation and mediation. The constant dynamics between political, professional, empirical and normative aspects in conducting diplomatic relations will be highlighted by analyzing basic concepts of international life, such as power, interests, values roles, rules, identity and culture.

Students will be able to understand the evolving field of diplomatic activity, in terms of actors, venues, structures, issues and critical historical transitions.

No prerequisites necessary. It is required, however, genuine interest  in world politics, current international relations, international history

The main focus of the course will be understanding and explaining the process of international negotiation and mediation. A blend of "field notes" taken from direct diplomatic experiences and theoretical contextualization of negotiation and mediation will be a salient feature of the course. Using several analytical tools, students will assess and compare several and historical examples of international negotiations and mediation efforts, in particular through workshops and a structured simulation.