EDS379 Global Political Economy

Global Political Economy (GPE, also called international political economy) considers the dynamic interplay between politics and economics at a global scale and the relations of power that underpin the processes of production, trade, consumption, distribution and accumulation. This course examines the complex interactions between economic and political phenomena across state borders and the interrelationships between states and non-state actors, markets and institutions in the global system, as well as the role of civil society actors and social movements. Pivotal issues in the contemporary global economy, such as trade, foreign direct investment, international finance and debt, the role of transnational corporations, labour and migration, and globalisation and regionalisation will be discussed as part of a historically contextualised exploration of power and global inequality.

The course aims to provide students with:

• Familiarity with and the ability to distinguish between key concepts and theories of Global Political Economy.
• Knowledge about the political dynamics of the global economy and the capacity to give an overview of key actors, governance institutions, and processes of accumulation and distribution of wealth and resources therein.
• Experience in analysing historical and contemporary case studies and empirical evidence by drawing on Global Political Economy approaches.
• Opportunities to develop independent and critical thinking skills.
• Experience formulating clear arguments that are supported with adequate evidence and logic in written and oral expression.