Course Description:
This course prepares diplomats to lead in the era of climate diplomacy, integrating environmental policy with foreign affairs. Participants will examine global climate frameworks, sustainability goals, and environmental negotiations. Emphasis is placed on negotiation at UNFCCC events, climate finance, equity, and the geopolitics of natural resources. Students will gain tools to advocate for national climate priorities while advancing global collaboration.
Course Length:
6 weeks (36 total instructional hours)
Proficiency Level:
Advanced
Prerequisite:
Completion of a lower-intermediate ESL course or equivalent language proficiency
Course Objectives:
- Explain the role of diplomacy in advancing climate action.
- Interpret the UNFCCC framework and major climate agreements.
- Navigate climate finance systems and mechanisms.
- Analyze the geopolitics of energy, resources, and sustainability.
- Develop strategies for climate negotiation and coalition building.
- Advocate for national interests within global sustainability goals.
- Integrate equity and justice into environmental diplomacy.
- Use data to support environmental foreign policy arguments.
- Engage with stakeholders from civil society and industry on climate goals.
- Design a national green diplomacy strategy aligned with international obligations.
