Global Fundamentalisms and Gender-based Human Rights

The United Nations is the premiere institution of international peace and security. Yet, it has become the site of a culture war between religious fundamentalisms and gender activism with regard to women’s human rights and the global LGBT population. This conflict takes place at UN meetings, such as the convening of the Human Rights Council, and through influencing outcome documents. This course will examine what amounts to an escalating culture war - particularly a fundamentalist crusade at the UN - and will problematize the lack of a response by the UN administration and membership.