Active learning ideas
This unit focuses on global efforts to address 'tragedy of the commons' issues: human rights and the environment. Students examine the development of international human rights law, from the UDHR to the International Criminal Court (ICC), and the challenges of enforcement. They also evaluate the success of global environmental governance, focusing on major summits like Paris and Glasgow and the obstacles to achieving meaningful climate action.
Activity 01
Students role-play a trial at the International Criminal Court for a fictional leader accused of war crimes. They must navigate the 'Rome Statute' and the challenge of state sovereignty (e.g., what if the leader's country doesn't recognise the court?).
Why is it difficult to enforce international human rights laws?
Activity 02
Divide the class into 'High Emitters' (US/China), 'Developing Nations' (India/Nigeria), and 'Vulnerable States' (Maldives). They must negotiate a carbon reduction treaty that balances economic growth with environmental survival.
How successful have international summits been in addressing climate change?
Activity 03
Students are given a list of rights. They must discuss with a partner whether these rights are truly 'universal' or if they are 'Western' values being imposed on other cultures, then share their most controversial example with the class.
What is the role of NGOs in global governance?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The International Criminal Court can arrest anyone in the world.
The ICC only has jurisdiction over countries that signed the Rome Statute, and it has no police force to make arrests. A 'jurisdiction map' activity helps students see the 'blind spots' of international justice, such as the US, China, and Russia not being members.
Climate change is just a scientific issue, not a political one.
Climate change is a 'wicked' political problem involving state sovereignty, economic competition, and historical responsibility. Using a 'responsibility vs capability' debate helps students see why political interests often override scientific consensus.
Methods used in this brief
The State and Globalisation
An introduction to the concepts of the nation-state, sovereignty, and the impact of globalisation. Students will evaluate whether globalisation has eroded state sovereignty.
8 methodologies
Global Governance: Political and Economic
An examination of international organisations such as the UN, IMF, World Bank, and WTO. Students will assess their effectiveness in managing global political and economic issues.
8 methodologies
Power and Developments in Global Politics
An analysis of power dynamics in the international system, including unipolarity, multipolarity, and the rise of new powers. Students will explore contemporary global conflicts and shifts in hegemony.
8 methodologies