International cooperation and development

The course is structured into two complementary modules, combining theoretical training, operational tools, and practical skills to address development cooperation and human rights protection in an integrated way. One module provides theoretical knowledge and operational tools for the design, management, and evaluation of development cooperation programs and projects. It explores European and international cooperation policies, Italian legal frameworks, strategic project design methodologies (Project Cycle Management, Logical Framework Approach, PM²), and the skills needed to understand and analyze project proposals. The other module offers an in-depth focus on the international protection of human rights and the right of asylum, approached from historical, legal, and political perspectives. Participants will examine the main international instruments – from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights to the 1951 Geneva Convention and the 1967 New York Protocol – as well as regional protection mechanisms and the role of organizations such as UNHCR and UNRWA. The process of harmonizing asylum policies in Europe will be analyzed, from the initial legal framework to the Dublin Regulation and EU directives, including the role of EASO and EUAA, as well as integration policies and multi-level governance in Italy and other EU Member States. Special attention will be given to the legal status of asylum seekers in Italy, the legislative evolution from the Martelli Law to the present, the humanitarian emergencies of recent decades, and the protection measures for vulnerable categories, with a focus on the organizational and assistance aspects of reception systems.

Basic knowledge of the fundamental concepts of international cooperation and sustainable development.

For the module on methodologies and tools for project design, the reference texts are: - European Commission (2004). Aid Delivery Methods – Project Cycle Management Guidelines. Bruxelles. - PM² Project Management Methodology Guide 3.0 (2021). European Commission, Publications Office of the EU. For the module on the international protection of human rights and the right of asylum, the reference texts are:- Petrovic, N. 2020. La nascita del sistema internazionale di protezione dei rifugiati. Roma. - Petrovic, N. 2020 Storia del diritto d’asilo in Italia 1945-2020. Le istituzioni, la legislazione, gli aspetti socio- politici”, Franco Angeli editore Supplementary teaching materials will be distributed during the lessons

Optional

The course assessment will be conducted through an oral exam, covering the reference texts indicated by the instructors and the materials made available during the lessons. It will be possible to take a written exemption for the module on the international protection of human rights and the right of asylum. The exemption will take place in class and will consist of open-ended questions. Passing the exemption will allow participants to reduce the content of the oral exam, focusing the final assessment on the topics not covered by the exemption.

The course includes interactive lectures, guided case study analyses, and discussions, along with sessions of theoretical exercises. The approach aims to develop analytical skills, critical evaluation abilities, and methodological understanding.