Active learning ideas
When international conflict arises, the world responds through a variety of legal and non-legal mechanisms. This topic evaluates the effectiveness of the UN Security Council, the use of sanctions, and the role of international humanitarian law (the 'laws of war'). Students also examine the impact of non-state actors, such as NGOs and the media, in shaping the international response to crises. The curriculum focuses on the 'Responsibility to Protect' (R2P) doctrine and the challenges of intervening in sovereign states to prevent mass atrocities.
Activity 01
Small groups choose a past international intervention (e.g., Libya, Kosovo, Rwanda). They must evaluate the legal basis for the intervention and its long-term impact on the region's stability.
How effective is the UN in maintaining global peace?
Activity 02
Students debate whether economic sanctions are an effective tool for changing a country's behaviour or if they primarily harm innocent civilians. They must use specific examples like Iran or North Korea.
What role do NGOs play in resolving international conflicts?
Activity 03
Students discuss how social media and 24-hour news cycles influence the international response to conflict. They consider whether the 'CNN effect' forces governments to act too quickly or inconsistently.
How is international humanitarian law enforced?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The 'laws of war' mean that war is legal.
International humanitarian law (IHL) doesn't make war legal; it aims to limit the suffering caused by war by protecting civilians and setting rules for combat. A 'sorting' activity of IHL rules helps students understand its humanitarian focus.
The R2P doctrine gives any country the right to invade another.
R2P is a framework that prioritises peaceful means and requires Security Council authorisation for military intervention. A 'flow-chart' of the R2P stages helps students see it as a last resort, not a blank cheque for invasion.
Methods used in this brief
Foundations of World Order
Students examine the concept of world order and the need for global cooperation to address international conflicts. They explore the historical development of international relations.
8 methodologies
Contemporary Global Conflicts
Students conduct an in-depth study of a contemporary world order issue, such as regional conflicts or the threat of nuclear weapons. They assess the international community's response to the issue.
8 methodologies