In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4: Quality Education and Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and in cooperation with the Department of Studies and Planning/ Sustainable Development Unit at the Presidency of the University of Mosul, the College of Political Science held the defense of a master’s thesis entitled “Great Powers’ Strategies and Their Impact on International Security: France and Russia – A Comparative Study.” The thesis was submitted by Mohammed Awadh Saud Al-Mawla on Tuesday, 28 July 2026.

The thesis examined a comparative analysis of the French and Russian strategies in light of the geopolitical transformations that have shaped the international system since the end of the Cold War.

The study aimed to analyze the relationship between great powers and international security, while identifying the similarities and differences between the French and Russian approaches.

The findings revealed that France adopts an institutional and diplomatic approach based on strengthening international cooperation, enhancing the role of international organizations, building alliances, and employing soft power instruments. In contrast, Russia follows a realist and geopolitical approach centered on military power, deterrence, and the protection of its sphere of influence.

The examination committee consisted of Professor Dr. Basim Kareem Suwaidan (Chair), Assistant Professor Jasim Mohammed Taha (Member), Lecturer Dr. Firas Mohammed Ahmed (Member), and Professor Dr. Hazim Hamad Mousa (Member and Supervisor).

Part of the defense session was attended by the Dean of the College, Assistant Professor Dr. Suhaib Khalid Jasim Al-Taie, the Assistant Dean for Administrative Affairs, Assistant Professor Dr. Ali Hussein Yaseen, and a number of postgraduate students.

Following the defense, the committee announced its decision to approve the thesis, subject to the required revisions, and award the candidate the Master’s degree.