This course focuses on the role international organizations (IOs) play in contemporary global politics. IOs have become an increasingly common feature of the political landscape. Institutions shape state behavior in areas such as trade, security, the environment, and human rights.
The course provides background on the historical development of major multilateral IOs. We pay special attention to how institutions are designed. We then assess each organization's performance record. Specific questions include:
Does UN peacekeeping promote post-war stability?
Is the ICC an effective tool for protecting human rights?
How do the IMF and World Bank approach global development?
To answer these questions, we consider internal policy reports, outside commentary, instructional videos, podcasts, and academic analyses.