Critical Race Theory & International Relations Training Course

Introduction

In an increasingly interconnected and globally conscious world, mastering Critical Race Theory & International Relations is absolutely critical for academics, policymakers, human rights advocates, and international relations professionals seeking to deconstruct power structures, challenge systemic inequalities, and promote a more just global order. This essential training course is meticulously designed to equip scholars, foreign service officers, government officials, international organization staff, NGO practitioners, and civil society advocates with the specialized knowledge and practical skills required for applying critical race analysis to global issues, understanding the racialized nature of international systems, and developing policies that address historical injustices. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the foundational concepts of Critical Race Theory (CRT) – such as intersectionality, systemic racism, and racial capitalism – as they apply to international law, development, security, and diplomacy. Our rigorous curriculum emphasizes hands-on analysis of current global inequalities, real-world case studies pertinent to racialized conflicts and disparities, and best practices for fostering anti-racist approaches in international affairs.

This decolonizing IR and racial justice course is crucial for individuals and organizations striving to move beyond superficial acknowledgements of race towards a proactive, strategic approach to understanding and transforming the racialized dimensions of international relations. Mastering racialized power analysis, implementing effective strategies for addressing structural inequalities, and understanding strategies for advocating for racial justice in global forums are indispensable for building more equitable partnerships, dismantling discriminatory practices, promoting human dignity, and achieving sustainable peace and development. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your expertise in strategic racial justice advocacy and inclusive international policy, positioning your organization at the forefront of global efforts to dismantle systemic racism and driving significant long-term value creation through enhanced policy relevance, improved program impact, and more equitable international cooperation.

Target Audience

• Academics & Researchers in International Relations, Political Science, Sociology
• Human Rights Advocates & NGO Practitioners
• Foreign Service Officers & Diplomats (especially those focused on equity/inclusion)
• Government Officials (Development, Social Justice, Foreign Affairs)
• International Organization Staff (UN Human Rights, UNDP, UNESCO)
• Civil Society Advocates & Community Organizers
• Journalists & Public Commentators on Global Affairs

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and its origins.
• Learn about the core tenets of CRT, including intersectionality, systemic racism, and racial capitalism.
• Master methodologies for applying critical race analysis to key areas of international relations.
• Develop proficiency in deconstructing the racialized dimensions of international law and institutions.
• Explore best practices for identifying and challenging racial biases in foreign policy and development.
• Understand the critical aspects of race and racialization in global conflict, security, and migration.
• Learn about robust strategies for advocating for racial justice and equity in international forums.
• Identify the critical role of historical legacies (e.g., colonialism, slavery) in shaping contemporary global inequalities.
• Develop skills in recognizing and addressing microaggressions and implicit bias in international contexts.
• Understand the nexus between race, class, gender, and other identity markers in global politics.
• Explore strategies for fostering inclusive dialogue and promoting anti-racist practices in international affairs.
• Drive the implementation of race-conscious approaches to global policy and programming.
• Position yourself as a leader in challenging systemic racism and advancing racial justice in International Relations.

Duration

5 Days

Course Outline

Module 1. Foundations of Critical Race Theory (CRT)

• Origins and evolution of Critical Race Theory: legal studies, sociology, education
• Key tenets of CRT: systemic racism, interest convergence, intersectionality, narrative/storytelling
• Distinguishing CRT from other critical theories in social science
• The concept of racialization and its application beyond traditional notions of race
• Debates and critiques of Critical Race Theory

Module 2. Race, Colonialism & International Historical Order

• The historical construction of race and its role in international relations
• Legacies of colonialism, slavery, and imperialism in shaping the global system
• Racial capitalism and its enduring impact on global economic structures
• Decolonizing IR: challenging Eurocentrism and dominant narratives
• The Bandung Conference and the emergence of the Global South

Module 3. Racialized Dimensions of International Law & Institutions

• Examining racial bias in the development and application of international law
• The United Nations and racial justice: UN mechanisms on racial discrimination
• The role of international financial institutions (IMF, World Bank) in racialized global inequalities
• International criminal justice and racialized patterns of accountability
• Reforming international institutions to address racial disparities

Module 4. Race in Global Conflict & Security

• Racialization of conflict: how race shapes perceptions of threats and victims
• The racial dimensions of humanitarian interventions and "Responsibility to Protect"
• Racial bias in security sector operations and peacekeeping missions
• Race and violent extremism: understanding its manifestations and responses
• Disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) through a racial lens

Module 5. Race, Development & Global Political Economy

• Racialized patterns of underdevelopment and wealth accumulation
• Critical analysis of aid, development discourse, and their racial underpinnings
• Land grabs, resource extraction, and their disproportionate impact on racialized communities
• The global migration crisis and its racial dimensions
• Trade policies and their racialized outcomes

Module 6. Intersectionality & Identity in IR

• Intersectionality as an analytical framework: race, gender, class, sexuality, nationality
• Understanding the lived experiences of marginalized groups in global politics
• Addressing multiple forms of discrimination and oppression
• Intersecting identities in diplomatic practice and international negotiations
• Building solidarity across diverse identity groups in global movements

Module 7. Anti-Racist Praxis & Future of IR

• Strategies for applying CRT insights to policy analysis and advocacy
• Promoting racial literacy and critical consciousness in international affairs
• Decolonizing knowledge production and pedagogy in IR
• Reparations and restorative justice in international contexts
• Envisioning an anti-racist and more just global order

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.