Multilateral Diplomacy Institutional Aspects online course

Explore the evolution of multilateral diplomacy in a dynamic and rapidly changing environment.

This course introduces participants to the diplomatic interaction among more than two actors, with particular emphasis on the multilateral diplomacy represented by the UN system. Participants examine an overview of all protagonists and their roles, as well as the complex institutional framework and intricate rules, in parallel with the expansion of its thematic horizons and its membership. These challenging topics are complemented by insights and interpretations of some controversial Articles of the United Nations Charter. Using illustrative case studies, the course blends an academic perspective with the experience of current practitioners of multilateral diplomacy.

Reviews

What will you learn?

• Understand the current status, responsibilities and influence of multilateral diplomacy in connection with its historical roots
• Discuss the institutional framework within which multilateral diplomacy operates
• Understand the increasing complexity of the UN system, starting with the Charter's main organs and the subsidiary bodies developed subsequently
• Delineate the roles of member states and new stakeholders with an interest and influence in international organisations
• Describe various forms of cooperation between the world organisation and regional organisations, or other organisations with limited geographic and thematic mandates
• Provide examples and analyse how multilateral diplomacy is responding to the changes in the geopolitical environment and the growing influence of non-state actors
• Develop conceptual and practical guidance on how the framework of multilateral diplomacy can be used for the promotion of initiatives relevant at the global level
• Understand how the member states share the expenses of the United Nations

Who should apply

• Diplomats in foreign ministries interested in expanding their knowledge and understanding of multilateral diplomacy
• Diplomats specialising in other areas of diplomacy (bilateral, consular, cultural, etc.), willing to diversify their professional skills
• Officials in any line ministries or regulatory bodies who are aware of the closed links between their work at the national level and the development of international norms and regulations
• Staff of international and regional organisations interested in the agenda of the UN and its global actions
• Staff of United Nations specialised agencies, programmes and funds, interested in understanding the UN system
• Professionals from the private sector wishing to understand the impact of the UN on their work or interested to cooperate in institutional forms with intergovernmental organisations
• Activists from civil society organisations willing to associate their work with the global plans of action initiated in the multilateral diplomacy framework, in terms of both negotiations and implementation
• International law practitioners and theorists of all specialisations, interested in knowing the mechanisms by which international law influences global governance
• International public servants willing to have a broader view of the UN system
• Journalists covering international relations matters and the global agenda
• Postgraduate students, academics, and researchers in the fields of political studies or international law
• Postgraduate students interested in starting a professional career in multilateral organisations

Also of interest

Methodology

The course will last for a total of 5 weeks, structured as follows:

• 1 week split between the course introduction and the wrap-up
• 4 weeks dedicated to addressing the course topics individually

The course is based on a collaborative learning approach, involving a high level of interaction over a four-week period. This interaction takes place in two main forms:

• Asynchronous interaction, using a custom-developed commenting tool
• Synchronous interaction, through live class meetings held in real time

Each module is discussed over seven days, during which you are expected to actively engage in the exchange of ideas, examples, and experiences with fellow participants and lecturers from around the world. Some modules may also include additional online activities, such as quizzes and exercises. Weekly interaction concludes with a one-hour live class meeting, conducted via Zoom or as a text-based chat. These sessions provide an opportunity to discuss the week’s topic in real time with the lecturer and other participants.

To complete the course successfully, an average of 5 to 7 hours of study time per week is required. This includes both synchronous and asynchronous discussions, as well as any additional online activities. Throughout the course, you will also receive guidance and personalised feedback on your classwork from the course team.

Course materials and the necessary tools for online interaction and course tasks are provided in a virtual classroom.

Participants who successfully complete the course receive a certificate issued by Diplo Academy, which can be printed or shared electronically.

To learn more about the methodology used in this course, watch the video below.

Prerequisites

• Regular internet access
• An undergraduate university degree, OR 3 years of work experience, and appropriate professional qualifications in diplomacy or international relations
• Sufficient English language proficiency to undertake postgraduate-level studies

Fees and scholarships

The fee for this course is €500. 

• Diplo alumni are eligible for a 15% discount on the course fee.
• A limited number of partial scholarships are available for diplomats and professionals working in international relations from developing countries. 
• Group discounts are available for multiple participants from the same institution.

Applicants are encouraged to actively explore scholarship funding from local or international institutions.

How to apply

Fill out the short form to begin your application process for this course. 

Applying for financial assistance? Please indicate this on the application form and upload your CV, along with a motivation statement that includes:

• Details of your relevant professional and educational background
• Your reasons for applying to the course
• Why you believe you should be offered the opportunity to participate, and how your participation would benefit you, your institution, and/or your country

Note: Financial assistance from Diplo is available only to applicants from developing countries! Late applications will be considered only if places are still available.

Cancellation policy

A minimum of 15 applications is required for the course to run.

Diplo Academy reserves the right to cancel the course if enrolment is insufficient. In the event of cancellation, Diplo will notify applicants shortly after the application deadline. Applicants who have paid an application fee may either transfer the fee to another course or request a refund.