United Nations-Mandated Summer School Programme, 13 June - 22 July 2016, Costa Rica

Description of the Programme

The 21st century is described as the age of globalization, a phenomenon which is increasingly affecting human beings in every aspect of their lives. While globalization has undoubtedly resulted in significant economic and social integration at the global level, the pace at which it is occurring has also brought with it several unintended consequences for the respect and promotion of human rights, human security, and human development, at other levels. The critical challenge facing the present world order, therefore, lies in ensuring that the vehicles of globalization are oriented towards development and promotion of human rights, through appropriate laws, policies, and actions. This summer programme will introduce students to the major themes and debates concerning these different linkages between globalization and human rights/human security/human development, and explore the new streams of critique that have enabled a confluence as well as a questioning of the interface between these concepts.

Several of the themes relevant to the contemporary world will be covered in this programme. These include international peace and security, rule of law, protection of human rights and promotion of human security, climate change governance, the sustainable development goals, gender equality, regulation of international trade and finance, international cooperation in development, corporate responsibility and accountability, public health governance, forced migration, traditional knowledge and intellectual property rights, multiculturalism, the role of media, the role of civil society, amongst others. The programme will adopt an approach whereby promotion of human rights and the rule of law will be central to the learning. Contemporary global issues threatening the stability of our planet will be discussed. The course will be taught by resident faculty of UPEACE and invited experts.