International Relations and Diplomacy

About the Course

Diplomacy is changing in a global environment, and the function of a diplomat and diplomatic mission must develop similarly. More and more, diplomatic missions have to deal with a broader range of agencies, from international non-governmental agencies, through pressure groups to what is called ‘citizen diplomacy’- individuals and small groups representing special interests.

Furthermore, new areas of research are being dealt with by Foreign Service officials and diplomats, including science diplomacy and digital diplomacy, and, above all, soft power diplomacy and nation brand. As well as focusing on more traditional areas of protocol and diplomacy and statecraft, Diplomacy, and International Relations focuses on the more recent emergence of soft power, science and defense diplomacy, and digital diplomacy as key issues in international relations in a global economy.

Core Objectives

Delegates will achieve the following objectives:

• Improve international diplomatic performance in English
• Advance national interest through science and digital diplomacy
• Manage international media and interviews
• Develop soft power initiatives internationally and in the country to improve the nation’s brand
• Manage relations with NGOs, special interest groups, and other agencies impacting diplomatic business

Training Approach

This training course is driven by a blended learning approach. It draws on various adult learning techniques, such as action learning, experiential exercises, group discussions, video case studies, role-play, and self-reflection activities. The resulting variety helps delegates stay engaged throughout the course, feel challenged, and gain quick wins for their development. It also ensures delegates are exposed to ample opportunities to apply what they learn to the real-world challenges they face in the workplace.

The Attendees

This training course will be valuable to professionals, including (but not limited to) the following:

• Diplomatic Staff working in diplomatic missions overseas
• Civil Servants and Members of the ministry of foreign affairs
• Diplomatic Correspondents and Journalists specialising in foreign affairs
• Professionals of Diplomacy and Foreign Affairs and those seeking a career in the Diplomatic Service

Daily Discussion

DAY ONE: THE CHANGING FACE OF INTERNATIONAL DIPLOMACY 

• The Changing Face of International Diplomacy
• The Relationship between Hard, Soft, and Sharp Power
• The Relationship between Soft Power and Nation Brand
• The Diplomacy of Deeds and its Impact on national reputation
• Lessons for Diplomatic Practices

DAY TWO: EFFECTIVE DIPLOMATIC COMMUNICATION

• The Key Types of Diplomatic Written Communication
• The Function of Notes Verbales, Memoranda, and Aides Memoires
• English Language Protocols in Diplomatic Communication
• Using memoranda to address a critical incident between states
• Writing a Note Verbal or a Memorandum

DAY THREE: MANAGING INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

• Functions of the Embassy and Foreign Affairs Press Department
• Diplomatic Media Communications: The Said and Unsaid Communications
• Writing a press release for local and international press explaining foreign and domestic policy
• Handling Press and Media Enquiries
• Managing an Interview Virtual or Face-to-face
• Harmonising local media response with foreign affairs policy and practices

DAY FOUR: SCIENCE DIPLOMACY AND DIGITAL DIPLOMACY

• The role of science diplomacy and digital diplomacy in diplomatic missions
• Assessing Science Diplomacy in Universities And Laboratories
• How can digital diplomacy be used to enhance the national image?
• Digital Diplomacy and Security Issues
• Assess the value of initiatives in science and digital diplomacy

DAY FIVE: DIPLOMACY AND INTERNATIONAL REPUTATION

• How diplomacy can improve or damage national and political image?
• How can diplomatic initiatives encourage tourism?
• Importance of Place Brand: How to exploit it?
• How can diplomatic initiatives encourage exports and inward investment?
• The role of defense diplomacy in improving national image