Energy Security Diplomacy

3 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

The connection between security and oil use can be traced to the early 20th century when the world’s naval fleets shifted to oil power. Yet today’s concept of ‘Energy Security’ has moved far beyond its historical definition, which traditionally focused on the security of energy for consuming countries. Unlike its historical definition, which focused mostly on oil security, this concept has expanded from security of oil flow to the uninterrupted flow and access to other sources of energy in today’s complex energy systems and baskets. Today, the elements of energy security include a much longer list: uninterrupted supply of oil and other sources of energy, affordable prices, security of demand, support for renewable energy resources, security of investment and overall energy facilities. The concept of ‘Energy Diplomacy’ critically examines the interplay between energy, international relations, and the emerging challenges in cybersecurity and irregular warfare within the energy sector. This Energy Security & Diplomacy course charts the transformation of energy security, and expands our understanding of today’s concept of ‘energy security’ and ‘geopolitics of energy’ This course also aims to provide students with a deep understanding of global energy dynamics, how they influence diplomacy and geopolitics, and the modern challenges posed by the digitalization of energy infrastructure and the transition to sustainable energy sources.