University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 2 | Credits: 10

This course provides an introduction to the social and political context of international advocacy and activism. It links local, national and international contexts for advocacy and activism, drawing upon historical, sociological and political perspectives on the rise of international campaigning for social justice. It explores the relationships between the state, market and civil society,charting the dynamic emergence of new social and political actors in local and transnational public advocacy.
(Language of instruction: English)

Learning Outcomes
  1. Understand the key international actors, events and structures driving contemporary processes of global public activism and advocacy, and how these involve the efforts of states, markets and civil society.
  2. Discuss and illustrate core knowledge about the historical background and the social, political and economic relevance of international public activism and advocacy
  3. Demonstrate familiarity with the international rights, development and environmental frameworks for activism and advocacy, including specific knowledge of key international actors and structures.
  4. Exercise research and writing skills and capacities to present a detailed piece of research and analysis on a historical or contemporary example of advocacy and activism
  5. Exemplify skills in communicating, collaborating, developing and presenting research with peers in a workshop setting
  6. Engage with opportunities to debate the key issues and questions surrounding the economics, politics and ethics of public advocacy and activism
Assessments
  • Department-based Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "‘Introduction: Twelve men in a Printing Shop’, in Bury the Chains: The British Struggle to End Slavery" by n/a
    ISBN: HOCHSCHILD, A.
  2. "‘From Santiago to Seattle: Transnational Advocacy groups Restructuring World Politics Chapter 1 in Khagram et al (eds) Restructuring World Politics." by Khagram et al (eds)
  3. "‘Slave sugar boycotts, female activism and the domestic base of the British anti-slavery culture’ Slavery and Abolition" by Midgely, Clare
The above information outlines module SP6122: "Social and Political Context of Activism and Advocacy " and is valid from 2020 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.