The concept of "human security" was first introduced in the 1994 Human Development Report by the United Nations Development Program. It has since attracted growing attention in the academic and policy communities around the world. The concept has also become part of official policy, particularly in Japan and Canada. In contrast to the traditional concept of "national security" with its focus on the security of the state against military threats, "human security" emphasizes the protection of individual citizens’ security not only from war and other forms of physical violence but also from threats of a political, economic, social, cultural, and environmental nature. At the most fundamental level, “human security” is defined as "freedom from fear" and "freedom from hunger," but beyond that there are competing approaches to it, as well as critical challenges to it both as a concept and as a guide for national or international policy. This seminar critically examines the concept of human security, its real-world applications, and implications for international policy. Through a series of panel discussions, debates, and case studies, students will develop a firm understanding of the conceptual significance, analytical utility, and policy implications of human security. There are no prerequisites for this course.