Classes will meet at CSIS in Washington, DC
PSC 786 | Russian and Post-Soviet Politics |Brian Taylor
Intro Session: TBD
This course is a graduate-level survey of the major issues in contemporary politics in the post-Soviet region in general, and Russia in particular. The seminar will very briefly examine the pre-Soviet and Soviet period, but the primary focus of the course is on developments since 1991. Topics to be examined include the Soviet collapse and transition, the nature of Putinism as a political and economic system, and Russian foreign and security policy, including US-Russian relations and the Russo-Ukraine War. We will meet with multiple guests from the DC area community of Russia and Ukraine scholars and practitioners.
PAI 703 | Current Policy Issues in US-Latin American Relations | Philip French
Intro Session: TBD
This seminar in Washington introduces students to the contemporary relationship between the U.S. and Latin America, offering the opportunity to discuss US policy in the region with current and former government officials, scholars, and non-governmental organization representatives. Beginning with an historical foundation from assigned readings, class lectures and discussions will focus on current policy issues: Is U.S. policy interventionist or neglectful? How are current the populist trends different than those of the 20th century? How do U.S. narcotics, terrorism, trade and immigration policies shape relations with Mexico and Latin America’s perception of the U.S. under the current administration? What can/should the U.S. do to promote stability in Venezuela, or security and prosperity in Bolivia, Haiti, and Central America? What are China’s interests in the region, and how should the U.S. respond? Can the region escape the boom-and-bust cycle of commodity-based economies? Students will discuss and challenge common approaches and assumptions, address major themes and current events, and explore possible responses to social and political change.
Students are accepted on a rolling basis as space permits.