OCEU 2165 - Security Issues in Eurasia: Domestic Concerns and Foreign Interferences

***UPDATED for 2026/27***

The course gives a general overview as well as some case studies of the main security issues that rose in the last three decades in the Eurasian region. The apparently peaceful disintegration of the Soviet Empire has dramatically changed the balance of security in the entire region. On an institutional level, a process of elaboration or transformation of partnerships, alliances and loyalties has rapidly followed the fall of the Soviet Union. The post-Soviet years also witnessed the emergence – or re-emergence – of regional tensions, conflicts and wars, challenging the newly independent states and their neighbours.

This year the focus will be on the impact of the war in Ukraine on the regional stability in security, political, economic and social terms.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Identify and argue topical debates related to security issues in Eurasia
• Develop critical thinking on complex and sensitive topics
• Review the local and international press about news easy to manipulate

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS

• Ability to critically analyse both empirical and theoretical material
• Ability to understanding stakeholders
• Ability to communicate effectively through well-structured speech and writing
• Ability to work independently and with peers to achieve goals

Oral and written skills in English (Russian would be an asset)

Basic knowledge of the political, social and economic evolution of Eurasia

The course consists of 8 sessions of 3 hours.

Before each session, learning material (readings, videos, ppt presentations) will be available in advance to students on Moodle.

In-class sessions will be devoted to the instructor’s presentation of core concepts related the session’s theme and student engagement in role plays with group discussions.

Feedback on oral presentations will be provided to the groups in written form (email) after each session.

Individual comments on final assessment and class participation will be added at the end of the semester in the online space.

• Role play in groups of 4 students (15’ presentation + submission of a written paper): 50%
• Written press review 30%
• Class participation (including in-class discussions) 20%

• In Class Presence: 3 hours a week / 24 hours a semester
• Online Reading and Preparation for Class: 4 hours a week / 32 hours a semester
• Research and preparation for teamwork (debates and press reviews): 8 hours a week / 64 hours a semester
• Research and writing for individual essays: 80 hours a semester