OADI 2205 - Strategy in Governmental Diplomacy and Non-Governmental Advocacy

***UPDATED for 2025/26***

This course is an introduction to strategy in diplomacy/advocacy and teaches practical skills for the formulation and execution of a strategy. It will explain how the theory of change and the alteration of the intended target(s) cost-benefit analysis is central to the strategy, and guide the students through the processes and challenges of crafting and implementing a strategy. The course will present three real-life governmental diplomacy strategies, using case studies from small states (Costa Rica, Liechtenstein) turning to multilateral settings to successfully achieve a specific outcome of international significance (Arms Trade Treaty, International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism for Syria) or to play different bilateral partners to close a perfect trifecta of free trade agreements (China, European Union, United States). The focus on smaller states adds interest as they normally do not have all the options that may be available to larger states. The course will also present three real-life non-governmental advocacy strategies, using case studies that involved Myanmar, Senegal, and Yemen (Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates). The instructor has been professionally involved with these case studies in different capacities and degrees and is therefore wholly or relatively familiar with the inner workings that led to the respective strategies. The course will also have three sessions devoted to the application of the lessons and tools learned to a strategy developed in-class by the students. These sessions will allow students to put into practice their classroom learning and hone skills of problem-solving, strategic thinking, negotiation/persuasion, communication, and collaboration. The last session will draw from the previous sessions in providing practical conclusions and lessons for the future..

Learning Outcomes and Skills

• Problem-solving skills
• Communication and persuasion skills
• Memo-writing skills
• Familiarity with conception, elaboration, and operationalization of a strategy
• Familiarity with procedural and political complexities of a chosen strategy.

None

Interactive lectures, in-class strategy development and role plays. Feedback on strategy memos before final presentations.

A one-page group strategy memo (60%), in-class presentations/role play (30%) and class participation (10%).

• In Class Presence: 4 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
• Reading and Preparation for Class: 4 hours a week / 48 hours a semester
• Research and Preparation for Group Work: 5 hours a week / 60 hours a semester
• Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 1.5 hours a week / 18 hours a semester

Reading weekly background material, preparing for and participating in in-class role play, and drafting a strategy memo.