Hayk’s Arrow · Armenian Strategic Center
Basic International Relations Course
Online course taught in Armenian. Start date to be announced.
Start date to be announced
The start date and group schedule will be announced separately. Registration is not open.
About the course
Understand the forces shaping our world. Explore why states cooperate, compete and enter conflicts, using accessible explanations and examples from Armenia, Georgia and the wider South Caucasus.
Who it is for
For students, young professionals and curious followers of international affairs. No previous study is required.
What you will learn
- Identify the main international actors and their interests.
- Understand power, sovereignty, diplomacy, alliances and deterrence.
- Recognise different theoretical explanations of events.
- Distinguish facts, interpretations and predictions.
Weekly programme
Week 1Power and the international system
States and non-state actors; sovereignty and national interests; military, economic, diplomatic and cultural power; an introduction to realism, liberalism and constructivism.
Practical exercise
Map the actors, interests and sources of influence in a regional issue.
Week 2Foreign policy and diplomacy
Leaders, institutions and public opinion; geography, history and economic ties; diplomacy, negotiations and international agreements.
Practical exercise
Explain a foreign-policy decision through at least two different influences.
Week 3Security, conflict and cooperation
National security; deterrence and alliances; collective security; international law and organisations; sanctions and economic dependence.
Practical exercise
Discuss the tools available to different actors in a hypothetical security crisis.
Week 4The South Caucasus in the world
Armenia and Georgia in their regional setting; external actors; security and connectivity; evaluating sources and alternative interpretations.
Practical exercise
Apply the course concepts to a current regional case selected close to the teaching date.
How learning works
Four weeks, with one two-hour live Zoom session each week, 20:00–22:00 Armenia time (UTC+4). The day will be announced. Teaching is in Armenian. Sessions combine teaching, a short break, case discussion and practical work. Selected reading materials are provided.
Final assignment and feedback
A 300–500-word explanation of an issue, identifying the actors, interests and an alternative interpretation. Present it in class or submit it after the final session.
Instructor
Giorgi Tumasyan is an author and researcher whose work focuses on international relations and security in Armenia, Georgia and the wider South Caucasus.
Meet the instructor