F1IS 4570 - The New Nuclear Order and Disorder

This course will explore the rapid transformation of the international nuclear landscape, by examining the nuclear policies and strategies of the five nuclear weapon states(US, Russia, China, UK and France), but also the deterrence policies of the other nuclear capable states (India, Pakistan, DPRK, Israel), and the debates taking place in various multilateral frameworks (UN, NATO…) including in the field of non-proliferation, arms control and disarmament. It will examine the new nuclear risks, and look into the trends shaping the 21st century nuclear order/disorder.

Learning Outcomes:

• Developing knowledge of nuclear history and strategy
• Understanding of the key tenets of nuclear deterrence and the role of nuclear weapons in the 21st century
• Understanding contemporary nuclear diplomacy: nonproliferation and arms control treaties, norms and international negotiation trends
• Assessing of the role of nuclear weapons in current international crises

Professional Skills:

• Understand the policies of nuclear armed states
• Develop a good understanding of the dynamics of multilateral nuclear diplomacy
• Evaluate nuclear policy options and risks
• Draft briefs for senior policy makers

Interest and basic knowledge of the role of nuclear weapons in international security

The assessment will be based on a combination of short individual (or small group) oral presentation by students, participation in class and a written policy brief to be delivered at the end of the semester. This brief will be a short policy memo supporting a decision maker, addressing a specific nuclear issue, and formulating concrete policy recommendations.

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

Online learning activities: 1 hour a week

Reading and Preparation for Class: 2 hours a week

Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 12 hours a semester