Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - POL 342 E100

Developing Countries in Global Politics (4)

Class Number: 3651

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 4:30–8:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Six lower division units in political science or permission of the department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Problems arising from the disparities in power and wealth between the highly industrialized countries of Europe and North America, and the under-industrialized countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America.

COURSE DETAILS:

Course Description:

This course examines the role and impact of ‘developing countries’ (the Global South) in world politics. The course is divided into three parts. The first part examines the historical constitution of Global South countries, their emergence in the post-decolonization era, and their efforts towards solidarity and global political-economic reform. The second part examines some contemporary global issues where differences between the Global South and North have been prominent including international trade, finance, and debt; international & regional security; human rights and human security; and environmental protection and conservation. Part three examines some prominent issues from the perspective of the main Global South regions (Africa, the Americas, and Asia). The focus here is on the agency of actors in these Global South regions in international affairs.  

Course Organization:

One lecture/seminar per week.

Grading

  • Participation 15%
  • Assignment 1 20%
  • Assignment 2 30%
  • Final Exam (Take Home) 35%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All required readings are available electronically on Canvas.


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The Department of Political Science strictly enforces a policy on plagiarism.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.