F1GD 4135 - Designing and delivering foreign policy: an introduction to the practical tools of Diplomacy (NEW)

***UPDATED for 2024/25***

Producing high quality policy advice is fundamental for good government and central to the role of public servants globally. In today's contested international environment, strong policy skills matter more than ever. This course, taught by an experienced diplomat, will equip students with an understanding of the making of foreign policy and the skills to advise senior decision-makers in governments or international organisations.
While the course will explore some of the theory of foreign policy, this is most of all a practical course. The class will introduce students to the actors, processes and institutions involved in making foreign policy. The course will explore the role of the public servant in advising on and implementing policy,
The course will develop key skills involved in the policy-making process, including stakeholder consultation, evidence and use of data, scenario and contingency planning. There will be a strong focus on developing oral and written communication skills for providing policy analysis and advice.
With a particular focus on policy making and diplomacy, the course will look at the relationship between a foreign ministry and its embassies as well as policy development in bilateral and multilateral negotiation.
The course will include cases studies to bring to life the challenges and realities of making foreign policy in the 21st century, drawing on the instructor's personal experience. Students will be actively involved in discussions in class, preparing presentations and submitting policy papers.
Learning Outcomes

1. Understanding of the actors and processes involved in formulating foreign policy

2. Develop skills in analysing and advising on policy options from a diplomatic perspective

3. Explore case studies on the development and implementation of foreign policy

Professional Skills

- Engage in teamwork to develop and present policy options on a foreign policy issue

- Developing written communication skills by drafting a strong policy proposal

- Developing oral communication skills by presenting and advocating for policy options

Benjamin SAOUL

Séminaire

English

- In Class Presence: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester

- Reading and Preparation for Class: 2 hours a week / 36 hours a semester

- Research and Preparation for Group Work: 2 hour a week / 12 hours a semester

- Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 2 hours a week / 24 hours a semester

None

Autumn 2024-2025

Class participation = 10% (weekly perspective sharing on readings)

Coursework (group presentation) 40%

Policy papers 50% (2 policy briefs): 1,500words (1st policy brief), 2,500words (2nd policy advice)

The course will be practical and interactive in nature: while there will be some taught content, students' questions, presentations and contributions are an essential part of the learning. There will therefore be continuous feedback to students from the instructor and from each other.

Students will be invited to prepare presentations for class, which will be discussed and debated, with feedback from other students and the instructor.

Students will regularly work in groups to prepare their projects in parallel to the class, and there will be opportunities for teamwork during the classes. There will be role plays to help develop the skills needed in the policy-making process.