Global Politics (SL/HL)

Investigate the political issues, ideas, and structures that shape our world, from local governance to global institutions. The syllabus explores four core units: power, sovereignty, and international relations; human rights; development; and peace and conflict. Students learn to analyse case studies, evaluate political perspectives, and apply theoretical frameworks to current events. The course develops skills in research, critical thinking, debate, and evidence-based argumentation — all essential for higher education and informed global citizenship.

Both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) students study the same core content, but HL students engage in a deeper and broader exploration of political issues through the HL Extension: Global Political Challenges. This extension requires independent research into two contemporary political challenges, fostering advanced analytical skills, synthesis of diverse perspectives, and the ability to present well-supported conclusions. HL students also complete more demanding assessments, requiring extended responses and higher-level evaluation.

Many students find IBDP Global Politics challenging because of the breadth of case study knowledge required, the need to apply multiple political theories to real-world situations, and the demands of constructing balanced, evidence-based arguments under exam conditions. The HL extension can be especially challenging as it requires self-directed research and synthesis of complex, often fast-changing global issues.