Programme in National and International Security

Aim: The Programme brings together experts with diverse specialities in geopolitical and strategic security to foster a common approach to security uncertainties and threats in Africa and internationally through the transfer of knowledge and training.

Work in the Programme is based on the Critical Security Studies approach, which moves away from the state as the central point of security and places human security at its core. This expands the view on security to include existential global threats, such as environmental degradation, economic recessions, population growth, immigration pressures, all the while advocating for the emancipation of races, genders, and oppressed nations. However, this expanded view of security does not negate the study of war and conflict, military and intelligence capabilities, changes to the world order, or the criminal justice system at play.

Themes:

  • Geopolitical security developments
  • Changes to the world order
  • The democratic criminal justice system
  • Critical Security Studies
  • Threats to regional and international stability
  • New emerging forms of strategic opportunities and threats

Staff

Prof Barend Prinsloo

 

Mr Cobus Steenkamp

 

Prof Hussein Solomon

 

Prof Anneli Botha

Mr John Melkon

 


Strategic Partnerships and collaborations

In support of:


Objectives of the Programme:

  1. Geopolitical commentary and Analysis
  2. Opinion pieces
  3. Events (colloquiums, workshops, and conferences)
  4. Curriculum development through specialised engagements with security practitioners
  5. Academic research projects

Qualifications in the Programme:

  1. BA in Public Governce with Policing Practice (contact: cobus.steenkamp@nwu.ac.za; link: https://distance.nwu.ac.za/Policing)
  2. Short-learning programmes in ‘cyber security’ and ‘emerging threats to the state’(under development)
  3. Post-Graduate Diploma in Geopolitics (under development)
  4. MA in Security Studies and Management (contact: barend.prinsloo@nwu.ac.za)
  5. PhD in Social Sciences with Security Studies and Management (contact: barend.prinsloo@nwu.ac.za)