| The aim of the course |
This course offers a comparative understanding of Russian Foreign Policy after the end of the Cold War and collapse of the Soviet Union. Faced with the disappearance of the Soviet Union the task of explaining Russian Foreign policies. After a historical introduction, focus will be on the current period, since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the demise of the USSR. Beginning with an historical survey, it examines various geopolitical, cultural, and other factors in analyzing the origins and nature of the Russian empire. This is followed by study of the post-Soviet foreign policy, both events in Post-Soviet Neihgbors. Finally Vladimir Putin's political regime will be analysed and comparisons with political developments in other post-Soviet republics will be drawn. Among the major issues addressed : the decision-making system, the question of national identity, economic and social factors, geostrategic stakes and power status, energy and trade issues, military and security questions, conflicts and negotiations, the wars in Chechnya, NATO expansion, attitudes to international law and humanitarian intervention, Russia's resistance to globalization, the Asia challenge, critical issues in relations with Middle East, EU-Russia cooperation, policies toward the former Soviet republics and diplomatic interaction with United States. |
