Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - POL 349 D100

Selected Topics in International Relations (4)

Diplomacy and International Negotiations

Class Number: 3433

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Six lower division units in Political Science or permission of the department.

Description

COURSE DETAILS:

Selected Topic:  Diplomacy and International Negotiations


The course explores United Nations diplomacy and international negotiations. Topics include: national foreign policy institutions, international treaty-making processes, UN diplomatic protocol of conduct, organization and the process of negotiations, power and influence in world politics, and intercultural communication in multilateral talks. We will examine how process affects outcomes in diplomacy and explore the role of power, persuasion and argumentation strategy, language and translation, cultural differences in communication, and domestic politics. Students will engage in a classroom simulation of international negotiations and gain practical experience in multilateral problem solving. The course draws on the instructor’s personal experience in UN diplomacy of twenty years.

Grading

  • Simulation 30%
  • Exam 40%
  • Research Paper 30%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no textbook to purchase for this course. All readings are available online, on the Canvas course site. Students need to complete the readings for each class period before class. You need to not only read them but to develop a sufficient grasp of the content and come prepared to discuss it with me and your classmates.


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.