Con­tem­por­ary Is­sues in In­ter­na­tion­al Busi­ness

Course content

The aim of the course is to explore and develop nuanced understandings of a range of contemporary issues and debates in International Business, and further develop the skills that will enable lifelong learning. To this end, emphasis is placed on ‘problematizing’ current understandings of contemporary issues in international business by placing them in context, identifying relevant knowledge and data, and questioning taken-for-granted assumptions that inform current theory and business practice.  Sources of contemporary issues include debates in the academic literature alongside current events in business and society. A focus on contemporary issues means that specific topics covered will vary over time. Indicative issues include: What factors are driving a slowdown in globalization pace and the implications for the strategies of MNEs? How do MNEs manage risks in a multipolar world with higher geopolitical tensions? How do MNEs engage with the UN developmental goals? What can MNEs do to enable the green transition? How can MNEs ensure that ethical considerations are maintained throughout the supply chain? The exploration of these and similar questions will draw on the latest academic literature and case studies of international businesses.  Students will be expected to make connections across contemporary issues and revisit prior learning with new understanding.