The UN Security Council in the Age of Human Rights

Catalog description

This seminar is an introduction to jurisdiction, functions, and operations of the UN Security Council, the only body of the United Nations capable of compelling action by Member States. The intent of the course is to expand the student's understanding of the strengths and limitations of the Security Council in protecting international human rights; the legal and political framework within which it operates and the practical aspects of advocating for Security Council action. Topics covered will include prevention and response to mass atrocities; international criminal law; individual and country sanctions; peacekeeping operations; thematic work on women, children, and civilians and armed conflict; and case studies on situations such as Libya, Kosovo, Myanmar/Burma, and Israel-Palestine. To help make the subject as tangible as possible, the instructor will use a variety of techniques including discussions, lectures, moderating debates about cases studies, video clips from Council meetings and press conferences, and an occasional guest speaker. Elements used in grading will include class attendance, individual and small group participation, and a final paper.