Russia, the U.S. and the Baltics - Interaction in the Past and Present (SZF_047)
About Study Course
Objective
The course will provide students with an overview of the development of US-Russia relations, in the context of relations of these countries with the Baltic States. The content of the course is based on current developments, as well as on those episodes of diplomatic history that allow a better understanding of the strategic choices and political opportunities of the two powers regarding the disposition of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania in international developments. The course aims to improve students’ ability to analyse the interaction between the United States and Russia in the Baltic region and the foreign political threats and opportunities that these interactions pose to the Baltic States.
Prerequisites
General knowledge of research methods and theories of international relations. General knowledge of the basic principles of foreign relations between the Baltic States, Russia and the United States.
Learning outcomes
Using the in-depth knowledge acquired by the study course on the dynamics of historical and contemporary relations between the two centres of global power and the Baltic States between them, students will study how the US-Soviet Union and later US-Russia relations have developed and the impact they have had on the Baltic States, and in particular Latvia.
Based on a literature analysis of the experience historical and current of transition processes, students will describe the political, as well political and societal interactions of these countries in a systemic, regional and bilateral dimension.
Students will choose scientific literature relevant to the topic of their independent work on the stages of historical interaction between Russia, USA and Baltic States and its development.
Students will critically evaluate ideas expressed in the scientific literature and discuss the interpretation of these ideas in peer presentations.
When drafting independent work, students will explain the impact of specific periods of history on cooperation opportunities and modern politics of Russia, the United States and Baltic States and conduct critical analysis of historical problems.
By analysing interdisciplinary literature and drafting independent work, students will integrate recommendations and new ideas on the possible model of development of relations between Russia, the United States and the Baltic States in the long run.
By contrasting the experiences of different countries and the models chosen, students will demonstrate their understanding of methods of comparative politics in practice.
Study course planning
| Study programme | Study semester | Program level | Study course category | Lecturers | Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russia and Eurasia Studies, RESMeng | 2 | Master’s | Required | Mārtiņš Vargulis | |
| International Governance and Diplomacy, IGDMeng | 2 | Master’s | Required | Mārtiņš Vargulis | |
| International Relations and Diplomacy, SEDM | 2 | Master’s | Required | Mārtiņš Vargulis |
