The evolving international security agenda, with particular reference to South Asia, is the focus of an exciting joint module for students from the Universities of Delhi, Birmingham and Melbourne next week.

The week-long intensive module organised in Delhi will consider the relevance of the traditional 'national security' paradigm - based upon military defence of territory against 'external' threats - and the role of nuclear deterrence in South Asia.

It will also explore how challenges such as weak and failed states, environmental degradation, terrorism, underdevelopment, migration, and normative ideas such as 'human security', have come to change the way we think about, and respond to, insecurity. The module aims to develop students’ theoretical understanding of these debates and explore them in relation to policy challenges.

The module will encourage students to take a 'critical' approach to these debates, draw upon the diverse backgrounds of participants, and explore the South Asia experience - as well as other regions - to illustrate the topics discussed.

Taking place from 10th to 17th February, the module is convened and taught by Dr Edward Newman from the Department of Political Science and International Studies at the University of Birmingham, and partners from the University of Melbourne and the University of Delhi. Dr Edward Newman said:

"This is a truly innovative collaboration between three globally leading universities. It is a successful example of advanced international teaching and it also serves to build broader institutional links. In addition, the topic of the module – the evolving security agenda – is more important than ever."

Professor Navnita Behera, of Delhi University’s Department of Political Science, is leading the Delhi input into the module. Professor Behera observes:

"This is the third time the module has been organised, and it is a stimulating experience for all involved - and some of the student friendships last long after the end of the module."

The Universities of Birmingham, Melbourne and Delhi are members of Universitas 21, an international network of leading universities committed to excellence in teaching and research.

This module is accredited and, upon satisfactory completion, will contribute to the MA programme of participants.

A leading UK research-intensive university, the University of Birmingham is a vibrant, global community and an internationally-renowned institution, in the top 100 globally. With approximately 28,000 students and 6,000 members of staff, its work brings people from more than 150 countries to Birmingham.  The University has a bold strategy to develop its global reputation by enhancing its international presence and collaborations.  

For media enquiries, please contact: Catherine Byerley, International Media Relations Manager, University of Birmingham, Tel: +44 (0)121 414 8254 or Email: c.j.byerley@bham.ac.uk