Global problems in the contemporary world 1900-GPCW-OG

The course presents contemporary, global problems from different perspectives (environmental, political, cultural, socio-economic). The course is conducted by several lecturers - specialists in various topics.

The course provides knowledge about the most important environmental issues, e.g. transboundary movement of hazardous waste, loss of biodiversity, invasive alien species, habitat destruction, rhino horn illicit trade, ivory illicit trade, transboundary protected areas.

Two lectures provide the general knowledge of migration process in the 21st century. First part of these lectures deals with characteristics of contemporary processes, among others: increase in number of migrants and diversification of destinations, feminisation of migration, politization of migration issues. Second part of the lectures present mast important global migration movements and its features i.e. destinations (south-north and south-south routes of migration) and most important migrant categories (migration of international workers, students and refugees). Third part presents consequences of movement in receiving and sending countries (for example: brain drain, brain gain, remittances, "migration industry").

Other lectures focuses on socio-economic changes and depopulation in Russia, particularly on socio-economic transformation after the collapse of the Soviet Union, religious diversity, secret cities in Russia, development of social pathologies and spatial diversity, causes, effects of the depopulation processes (this topic only in winter semester).

The course focuses also on selected issues related to general situation of the national and ethnic minorities in the chosen regions (countries) of the World, Europe and Poland, as well. The following topics will be discussed during the lecture: ethnic and national diversity of Europe and Poland; protection of minorities (international and local law); ethnic identity; intercultural contacts - from cooperation to tensions and conflicts.

The subject of one of the classes will be international peace and security. The laws of armed conflicts will be briefly covered, as well as their classification and effects. The most important contemporary armed conflicts will be covered as well.

Several lectures provides knowledge of tourism issues: influence of global crisis on tourism sector, global problems of tax havens for developing countries, natural and cultural disadvantages connected with developing of tourism in Third World countries.

4 ECTS lecture x 25 h. = 100 h., including:
30 hours - hours in direct contact with the teacher, i.e. participation in classes,
70 hours - student's own contribution: 20 hours - reading the literature, 25 hours preparation of a written assignment, 10 hours - preparation for the class discussion, 15 hours - analysis of lecture materials