International Studies

This reading-intensive course studies some of the main conflicts that have occurred since 1945 – beginning with the wars in Indo-China (1946-54) and Algeria (1954-62) that saw the end of France as a colonial power. Conflicts covered in this course include: The Franco-Vietnamese conflict; Lebanon civil war; Islamic revolt in Afghanistan and occupation by the Soviet Union; and the American conflict in Iraq.  Students gain a clear understanding of the background and consequences of these conflicts, how immensely difficult it is for outside powers to intervene in any other state, and a deeper understanding of societies that are very different to those of the West. Students critically analyze the impact traditional mass media and social media have had, both in covering the conflicts and in fostering resistance or opposition to the powers that be.

This course introduces the contemporary and emerging stakes posed by international migration in the international arena. In dialogue with case studies and comparative research, the course explores how states adapt to the changing features of human mobility in a context of growing geopolitical (and climate) instability and how this affects interstate relations. The externalization of migration control and diaspora surveillance policies have transformed the geography of public intervention, thereby opening a new field for diplomatic engagement. The course also provides an understanding of the ways new categories of actors interfere with the management of migrations: international organizations, civil society organizations, cities, and private companies.

The course introduces the normative structure and theoretical foundations of Public International Law (PIL), alongside its institutional and procedural aspects. It also looks at the interplay between Public International Law and domestic legal systems, and between Public International Law and international relations, legal philosophy, and political science. A particular focus of the course is the relevance of Public International Law to the issues and challenges confronting the State of Israel. The course discusses core issues in Public International Law and their significance to the State of Israel, in light and based upon the unique needs and history of Israel.

As the global economy becomes more competitive and uncertain, businesses equipped with effective Supply Chain Management (SCM) can enhance financial performance, mitigate risks, and respond to disruptions more effectively. This course offers a comprehensive overview of supply chain management from strategy to each function within the supply chain. In addition, the course covers contemporary topics such as the Covid-19 pandemic, global supply chains, resilience, and sustainability. Classes consist of lectures, short video clips, interactive discussions, individual case study assignments, group case studies, and presentations. 

The undergraduate research program places students in research opportunites to conduct indpendent research under the supervision of a Chinese University of Hong Kong faculty. Students are expected to spend approximately 15 to 20 hours per week in independent research as well as attend lectures and labs.

The course is part of the Laurea Magistrale program and is intended for advanced level students. Enrolment is by consent of the instructor. The course examines the political and the social conditions of contemporary Iran. Iran is one of the major players in the contemporary geopolitical situation and has a long history as a hegemonic power. It is also characterized by a vibrant civil society, a fact that is not usually acknowledged. Hence the focus of the course is on both political and social aspects. The course focuses on the historical, political, and social situation of contemporary Iran; the patterns of interaction between Iran and the various local political entities (Empires, nation-states, regional organizations); the interaction between Iran and Europe, North America, and Africa; and the influence of international factors on Iranian domestic and foreign policy. Special attention is placed on the interaction with other regional forces and the international and global dynamics affecting the region as a whole. A special section of the course is devoted to the historiographic and political debate concerning Iran, its future, and its role in international politics. The course is designed primarily to familiarize students with the pivotal events and processes of the political history of contemporary Iran and its foreign and domestic policies. Special attention is placed on Iran’s diplomacy and international relations.