Political Science

Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin

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Module Code: POU44413

Module Name: Topics in Political Science 10-Human Rights in World Politics 2024-25

ECTS Weighting: 5
Semester/Term Taught: Semester 1
Contact Hours: 1.5 hours seminar per week
Module Personnel: Lecturer - Dr Ross Gildea

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this module, students will be equipped to critically examine and address issues related to the global politics of human rights, utilizing key concepts and theoretical frameworks. They will have a firm understanding of debates surrounding the nature and impact of human rights, including the factors which shape human rights outcomes.

Module learning aims

This module will familiarise students with contemporary research and issues related to the global politics of human rights. It will equip students with knowledge of fundamental conceptual and theoretical debates, as well as the actors and factors which shape human rights compliance.

Module content

This module will address a number of conceptual, theoretical, and analytical questions pertaining to human rights. How might we conceptualise “human rights” and how are perspectives on human rights evolving? Do human rights norms affect political behaviour in meaningful ways? Which factors shape the likelihood of human rights violations or compliance? What role do states, international bodies, and non-state actors such as NGOs, play in human rights protection? How is technology changing the human rights landscape? These are some of the questions this module will address.