Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - POL 472 F100

Diplomacy and Global Governance (4)

Class Number: 2664

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 21, 2026
    Tue, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Eight upper division units in political science or permission of the department.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Examines diplomacy and its role in global governance. Introduces students to the theory and practice of diplomacy, both bilaterally and multilaterally, with particular emphasis on how interactions between state actors and non-state actors contribute to the resolution of global problems.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course focuses on diplomacy and its role in global governance today. Every aspect of global governance necessitates the collaboration of multiple actors with different interests. The course introduces students to the practice of diplomacy, with particular emphasis on how state actors interact with non‐state actors to solve global problems. The first part deals with diplomatic practices in different contexts (bilateral, multilateral, polylateral). The second part examines a series of global issues (war and peace, environmental politics, democracy promotion, trade etc.) through the prism of diplomacy.

There will be three hours of lecture/seminar each week.

The class is taught in French.

Grading

  • Quiz 20%
  • In-class presentation 10%
  • Policy reports 30%
  • Final exam 30%
  • Participation 10%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

TBD

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.