The course studies the interaction among state and non-state actors in the international environment. Its objective is to introduce the students to the main features of the international system as well as familiarize them with the core concepts and research tools of the discipline of international relations. Moreover, the course acquaints the students with the most important issues featuring in the world agenda, namely, the struggle against poverty and underdevelopment, the protection of human rights, the spread of democracy, and the fight against terrorism. Altogether, the course prepares the students for the needs of the Spring term course on International Relations.