INAF Selected Topics Courses offered in Summer 2021

  Instructor: P. Lagassé

This course examines the politics and economics of defence procurement, with a focus on the acquisition of major weapons systems. The first part of the course will examine theoretical work on defence procurement, looking at questions such as how capability gaps lead to requirements and how firms and governments interact when buying military equipment. The second part of the course will look at the politics and procedures of defence procurement in specific countries, such as the United States, Sweden, Israel, and Australia. Finally, the third part of the course will examine defence procurement in Canada, including studies of particular projects past and present.

  Instructor: S. Carvin

This course focuses on issues in relation to emerging national security threats in the area of espionage and clandestine foreign influence. Topics include economic national security and foreign investment, online and in-person clandestine foreign influence, and ethical issues such as community relations. Students will work independently and on a group project to generate analysis of key trends in this space, including the impact of technology and evolving regulatory regimes.

  Instructor: V. Percival

The COVID-19 pandemic has reverberated throughout the world, leaving no region untouched. While the full extent of COVID’s impact on international affairs will take decades to clearly understand, some trends are emerging. COVID has altered sources of power and vulnerability. The failure of international institutions to effectively navigate the pandemic and facilitate a coordinated international response has weakened multilateralism, including the United Nations. The pandemic has affected international trade and potentially undermined the case for increased globalization. The global economic impacts of COVID-related disruption will undoubtedly alter socio-economic development. This course will explore the impacts of COVID 19 on the key dimensions of international affairs, including conflict, conflict management and international security; trade and the global economy; international institutions and diplomacy; as well as development and humanitarian engagement.