The digital revolution, especially social media, has radically changed the ways governments engage with foreign publics.
A new form of interaction has emerged between governments and the public in the international arena, influenced by factors such as:
With unprecedented public interest in foreign affairs, citizens are demanding greater scrutiny of diplomacy, and governments are obliged to respond by providing information about the policies they pursue and the results that they achieve. At the same time, governments are engaging with foreign citizens online, particularly through social media.
This course explores the essentials of digital public diplomacy, highlighting how social media and AI shape governments’ strategies for engaging with foreign audiences, and illustrating these through case studies.
This course not only deepened my understanding of the strategic importance of public diplomacy in the global arena but also equipped me with invaluable skills to persuasively and effectively communicate with diverse audiences.
– Mr Md. Suman Miah, Consultant/Geologist, Ministry of Land, Bangladesh
The course enhanced my understanding of the distinction between authentic public diplomacy and propaganda, and the critical role national image plays in shaping foreign policy. It deepened my ability to engage non-state actors and assess the unique value they contribute, which is especially relevant to my work. I found the discussions on digital challenges such as disinformation and deepfakes particularly useful, along with insights on leveraging AI-powered tools like real-time translation and metaverse diplomacy. The course also offered practical guidance on developing effective public diplomacy strategies, engaging the right actors, and influencing public perception as a key soft power dimension.
– Ms Klara Marland, Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE) Secretariat, The Netherlands
The best part of the Public Diplomacy course is the expert-led sessions on public speaking and social media handling. These exercises, guided by seasoned diplomats and communication professionals, helped me significantly improve my confidence and clarity in virtual communication.
– Ms Muskaan Khanna, PhD Fellow, Department of African Studies, University of Delhi, India
Through real-case country examples, supported by theoretical debates, the course offered a new and fresh insight into the contemporary issues of public diplomacy. For me, as a diplomat, the discussions among participants have created an exceptional opportunity for sharing original and modern ideas for developing public diplomacy strategies, nation branding, and communication with the public.
– Ms Natasha Hroneska, Head of Unit, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of North Macedonia
From providing an in-depth understanding of managing an organisation’s public image to providing space for participants to learn how to develop branding on a budget and navigate multistakeholder collaboration, this course is an excellent option for anyone working with the public.
– Ms Gwendolene Roberts, Policy/ Research Officer, Australian High Commission, Trinidad and Tobago
What will you learn?
Mexican diplomat
Director of Digital Diplomacy, Diplo
The course consists of 4 modules:
DiploFoundation (attn Tanja Nikolic)
Anutruf, Ground Floor, Hriereb Street Msida, MSD 1675, Malta
The course will last for a total of 5 weeks, structured as follows:
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:
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 practical 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.
The fee for this course is €500.Â
Applicants are encouraged to actively explore scholarship funding from local or international institutions.
Fill out the short form to begin your application process for this course.Â
Applying for financial assistance? Please indicate this on the application form and upload your CV, along with a motivation statement that includes:
Note: Financial assistance from Diplo is available only to applicants from developing countries! Late applications will be considered only if places are still available.
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.
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