Tbilisi: Policy and Conflict in the Post-Soviet Space
Multiple Post-Soviet States; Multiple Post-Soviet Policy Problems
As the Soviet Union crumbled, it left behind successor states, each with an ethnically, linguistically, and culturally diverse population. As these states tried to form domestic policies and governing institutions, the interests of their various populations were (and often still are) often in conflict. Civil war erupted in Tajikistan and Georgia. Riots swept Kyrgyzstan. Armed conflicts broke out in Moldova and Russia.
While based in Tbilisi, Georgia, you will travel extensively throughout the country and also to Armenia and Azerbaijan to discuss the conflicts in these states, both past and present, with local experts. Learning of the historical background and the interests of groups involved, including foreign interests, you will critically consider the governance problems that face modern multiethnic states. You will search for pragmatic solutions using the experience you gain on the ground. This program provides invaluable experience for anyone interested in diplomacy or policy making.
This program includes Russian as a Second Language study at all levels.
- Curriculum -
Total semester credits = 16
REES 390 Identity and Conflict in the Caucasus
Conflicts between groups often arise due to conflicting identities. To understand conflict, then, it is imperative to understand these identities and how they are formed. It is also necessary to understand how identities can be impacted by mass media, popular culture, and propaganda from sources within and without the group identity. Lastly, it must be understood that identities are natural formations of any social group, arising from historical influences and also affected by the geography, climate, and geopolitical position of the area in which the group resides. Guest speakers from various groups and an extensive regional travel program will introduce students first hand to these factors. 4 credits.
REES 390 Film Making in Georgia
More information coming soon! 4 credits.
LANG 101/102 Elementary Georgian
Georgian language is unlike any other. Whether you already study Russian or another language and just have an overall fascination with language and linguistics or you would like to boost your resume with an eye toward a career in the region or simply want to integrate even more into the local community, this is for you. If you are one of the few who is not a beginner in this language, we can arrange study at your level. 4 credits.
RUSS 101-102/201-202/301-302-307/401 Russian Language Study
Russian is a still a lingua franca for politics and business in much of the post-Soviet Space. Small, intensive classes with additional focus on political and diplomatic language at higher levels. 8 credits.
Georgian Language and Culture Workshop
All students will take part in an introductory Georgian language and culture workshop, in which we will focus on "survival Georgian" within the context of cultural studies. This is for no credit.
For more information, and to apply, click here.
