The Art and Science of International Diplomacy
| Dates: | March 2-23, 2021 |
|---|---|
| Meets: | Tu from 10:00 AM to 12 N |
| Location: | Online Presentation |
| Cost: | $55.00 |
Sorry, the signup deadline has passed.
Please note: This course program requires membership in a 2020 - 2021 OLLI at MSU Membership or 2021 - 2022 OLLI at MSU Membership or 2021 - 2022 OLLI at MSU Membership
Contrary to popular belief, diplomacy is not about getting along: its purpose is to advance national interests through cooperation and competition. In this course, Robert Loftis, a retired foreign service officer, will describe how diplomacy is conducted, its legal underpinnings in tradition and the Vienna Conventions, the infrastructure of diplomatic missions, the qualities that make for a successful diplomat and the unique challenges that face diplomats and their families. The instructor draws on over three decades of experience.
| Fee: | $55.00 |
Online Presentation
This is a real-time (live) online class that meets at the specified day(s)/time(s) listed.We will send you a reminder email with login instructions one business day before the program start date. If there are additional sessions, we will send reminders the morning of those sessions.
Robert Loftis
Robert Loftis, a retired foreign service officer, served in Africa, Latin America, Europe and Oceania from 1980-2013. He was Ambassador to Lesotho, Senior Advisor for Security Negotiations and Agreements, Senior Advisor for Avian and Pandemic Influenza, Deputy Commandant of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces and Acting Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization. He taught courses on Africa, diplomacy and international negotiations at Boston University from 2013-2020.| Date | Day | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 03/02/2021 | Tuesday | 10 AM to 12 N | Online Presentation |
| 03/09/2021 | Tuesday | 10 AM to 12 N | Online Presentation |
| 03/16/2021 | Tuesday | 10 AM to 12 N | Online Presentation |
| 03/23/2021 | Tuesday | 10 AM to 12 N | Online Presentation |
- Participants will gain an understanding of how modern diplomacy is conducted.
- Learn about the roles of embassies and foreign ministries and the various types of diplomatic personnel.
- Learn about the special challenges of being a diplomat, including security.
- Gain an understanding of the rules, both legal and traditional, that govern diplomacy.