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Highlighted: Europe, China & Geopolitical Strategy

1 October 2021

In just a few weeks, the University Masterclass: Europe, China & Geopolitical Strategy will be starting again! This IIS elective dives into international relations, security, trade, climate change and technological advancements. Melody Waterworth, a Master's student in Conflict Resolution and Governance at the UvA, took this course last year.

Melody: "In order to better understand China as a rising global power from multiple perspectives and discover where their geopolitical position affects their political strategy, I signed up for the course as an addition to my Master's. I thoroughly enjoyed discussing topics beyond military strategy. We do not only look at where Europe and China are opposed, but where there are opportunities for fruitful collaboration as well. This is a refreshing difference from the straight security threats and international relations taught elsewhere." 

 

Developing a nuanced, multifaceted opinion

"All the lecturers had different positions on China. Some of them chose to look through a Chinese or Eastern philosophy lens, while others through traditional, western security and political lens. The various perspectives allowed us as students to develop a multifaceted opinion."

Actively working on strategy

One of the main goals of the course is to write a strategic position paper in an interdisciplinary team and to learn to connect various policy themes on a strategic level. Students are also encouraged to reflect on their personal strategic thinking.

 

I would highly recommend this course if you are interested in International Relations, Security, Trade, Climate Change or Technological advancements. The course covers so much ground that you feel you have a deeper understanding of the European position internationally and a nuanced understanding of China. Melody Waterworth

More information

University Masterclass: Europe, China & Geopolitical Strategy is taught by Mr Ties Dams (author, advisory strategist and connected to the Clingendael Institute) and is open to Master's students from all academic backgrounds. Motivated Bachelor's students can send a motivation letter to apply. More information about admission requirements, assessment, registration and the course schedule can be found here. Registration is possible until 28 October.