Central Asia - Domestic Dynamics and Neighbourhood Conundrum (PZK_184)
About Study Course
Objective
Provide critical knowledge about the intertwined nature of the Central Asia internal characteristics, regional agenda, and cross-sectoral cooperation with non-regional players, particularly Russia, China, the EU, and the U.S. Blended approach will help better grasp how the combination of these factors contribute to international (dis)order, particularly in Eurasia.
Prerequisites
General knowledge of geopolitics and geostrategy; international relations and security architecture; the role of the United States, Russia, and China in global politics.
Learning outcomes
Using in-depth knowledge of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, both on their domestic and foreign policy processes and the involvement of external powers in the region, in particular the role of Russia and the People's Republic of China, students will describe the impact of specific players on internal and external dynamics of these countries. Students will also analyze current domestic political events in the context of Latvia's co-operation with Central Asian countries, considering Latvia's activity in this direction in the 2000s.
While working with various types of information, students will select appropriate sources, distinguishing between secondary and primary, as well as subjective and objective materials, critically evaluating the reliability of information, also considering the impact of national political system on official information. Working individually, students will develop not only analytical skills, but also time planning and work prioritization skills.
Working under the guidance of foreign lecturers, students will develop skills to work in an international team and in an intercultural environment.
When developing individual and group works, students will in person and in writing identify, compare and evaluate alternative arguments and opinions, formulate, explain and argue their views on a Central Asian domestic or foreign policy problem.
Students will develop a report based on interdisciplinary scientific literature, analyzing the domestic and foreign policy issues of Central Asia.
Students will appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of complex problems and combine research results and methods from different fields in analyzing complex problems.
After completing the course, students will understand the impact of the interaction of various events on the current situation in a region where cooperation is left to competition and conflict.
Through this course, students will be able to participate in an Erasmus + exchange program at the Kyrgyz National University in Bishkek.
