Course Description

Caribbean countries today arguably face the same political and economic challenges that they have since independence: they are constrained by small size and apparently insurmountable obstacles to realize sustainable and independent economic development. This course introduces the theory and practice of Caribbean foreign policy, from independence to present day. We will primarily examine the English speaking Caribbean, but we will also consider the non-English speaking Caribbean as we explore the background to and present-day challenges of economic development, regional integration, and prestige and relevance as international actors. We will also explore the relationships with specific countries and regions.

By the end of the course the students should have an appreciation and critical understanding of the basis and rationale for the political and economic position of the Caribbean in the international arena, and basic knowledge of the historical trajectory of Caribbean foreign policy.

This is a demanding course with a considerable work load. However, the course schedule and requirements have been structured in such a way that, along with your own efforts to plan your time and pace yourself, the course is entirely manageable. Each assignment will contribute to the next, so there will be a continuous accumulation of knowledge of the subject matter as you progress in the course. And of course, as with most other courses, you will get from it what you put in.