TK
Reviewed Apr 3, 2026
Course is very good and effective to understand the democracy and policy implementation
Review: Law, Governance, and Public Policy Muharrem Shabani’s letter is a well-structured formal communication that effectively connects academic interests with diplomatic and governance concerns. It highlights the critical intersection of international law, diplomacy, and policy-making in the context of Kosovo’s ongoing quest for international recognition. Key Points: Governance & Diplomacy: The letter underscores the pivotal role of international governance structures, such as the United Nations, in the recognition of states. It also stresses the importance of surveillance systems in monitoring the impacts of policies—both in public health and geopolitical arenas. Legal-Policy Interface: Shabani addresses the challenges involved in implementing international legal standards and norms at both national and international levels. He emphasizes the vital role of data and surveillance mechanisms in informing effective policy decisions. Multilevel Diplomacy: As Permanent Representative of Kosovo to the UN offices in Geneva, New York, and Vienna, Shabani exemplifies the complexities of multilateral diplomacy and governance, where international law and policy intersect and shape diplomatic efforts. Collaboration for Knowledge Sharing: The letter advocates for academic-diplomatic collaboration as a valuable means to deepen understanding of surveillance systems and their challenges, which is essential for improving governance and policy evaluation globally. Excerpt from the Letter: Sir/Madam, I am writing to you as a Professor of History and Geopolitics of the Balkans at the Swiss Graduate Institute of Management and Tourism, as well as a Peace Ambassador to the United Nations, President and Founder of the SKUN Mission for the Recognition of Kosovo within the United Nations. I wish to express my sincere thanks for the remarkable work you are doing within the course "Surveillance Systems: The Building Blocks" at Johns Hopkins University. I am particularly interested in deepening my knowledge of surveillance systems in the context of global geopolitical and diplomatic issues. As Permanent Representative of Kosovo to the United Nations in Geneva, New York, and Vienna, I am convinced that surveillance systems, both for health issues and geopolitical matters, are crucial elements for monitoring and evaluating international policies. I would be honored to discuss the importance of these systems in the international recognition of Kosovo, linked to strategic issues affecting both public health and global diplomacy. Your analysis of surveillance systems and the challenges related to their implementation and evaluation resonates strongly with my commitments in Kosovo’s recognition efforts within the United Nations. The example of the role of the SKUN Foundation and the parallel diplomatic efforts led by actors such as Ambassador Muharrem Shabani clearly shows the impact such initiatives can have in promoting peace and reconciliation, while highlighting the geopolitical challenges we face, particularly concerning Kosovo’s international recognition. I sincerely thank you for your support and the opportunity to exchange views on these essential issues. I am convinced that a fruitful collaboration could not only enrich academic dialogue but also contribute to a better understanding of the complex geopolitical dynamics within the United Nations and beyond. I look forward to meeting you and continuing this conversation. Please accept, Sir/Madam, the expression of my highest regards. Muharrem Shabani Professor of History and Geopolitics of the Balkans Peace Ambassador to the United Nations Office President & Founder of the SKUN Mission for Kosovo Recognition Permanent Representative of Kosovo in Geneva, New York, and Vienna www.skunfoundation.org