This course introduces students to the realities of working at a multilateral institution: a primer on the United Nations and/or interacting with an international organization. We focus on political and managerial leadership and examine real-case scenarios of political negotiations, peacekeeping roles, management, support services, and disarmament and non-proliferation issues. We also address the issue of how relevant is the multilateral institution in today’s world.

Students will gain a deep understanding of the complexities of managing in an international organization: how to deal with mandates, Member States, competing demands and a hierarchy that does not always welcome new ideas. The course will show how it is possible to achieve political and managerial gains and how to create value by delivering services. They will improve their decision-making and managerial skills of managing – and managing within – an international organization.