Communication for diplomacy
In an era of evolving global challenges, effective communication is at the heart of successful diplomacy. Whether negotiating treaties, addressing international audiences, or managing press engagements, diplomats require nuanced communication skills to navigate diverse and high-stakes contexts.
This course is designed for professionals across organizations who want to enhance their communication capabilities in a diplomatic environment. This tailor-made programme caters to the unique needs of each organization, whether delivered online, on-campus in Turin, or in the participants’ home countries.
Key features
Tailored to You
Each workshop is co-designed with you, ensuring it speaks directly to your goals and challenges.
Immersive Learning
Dive into real-world activities like crafting multimedia content, analyzing case studies, and getting out into the field.
Expert Guidance
Learn from communication professionals who bring years of global experience to the table.
Why choose this course?
Participants will gain practical tools and strategies to:
- Communicate effectively across diverse cultural and political landscapes.
- Master public speaking and media engagement under pressure.
- Craft compelling narratives to advance diplomatic objectives.
- Leverage traditional and digital media for impactful messaging.
- Develop diplomatic writing skills tailored to high-stakes and international audiences.
- Explore participatory communication strategies for development diplomacy.
This programme draws on the ITCILO’s decades of experience in capacity building and collaboration with leading international organizations, ensuring relevance, quality, and hands-on learning.
Learning objectives
By the end of the course, participants will:
- Understand the principles of strategic communication for diplomacy.
- Enhance their public speaking, presentation, and negotiation skills.
- Confidently engage with the press and manage interviews in high-pressure scenarios.
- Leverage social and digital media to amplify diplomatic messages.
- Apply storytelling techniques to effectively convey diplomatic priorities.
- Develop practical diplomatic writing skills, including crafting diplomatic notes and formal correspondence.
- Utilize participatory communication approaches to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Course features
Flexible delivery options:
- Online: Live webinars and interactive virtual sessions tailored to the organization’s schedule.
- Campus: Immersive training at the ITCILO campus in Turin, Italy, offering access to state-of-the-art facilities and an international learning environment.
- Field: Delivered directly in the organization’s country to address specific regional or local needs.
Customizable curriculum:
The course content and structure can be adapted to focus on key areas such as:
- Media relations and press engagement.
- Crisis communication and managing sensitive topics.
- Public speaking and presentation skills.
- Negotiation and intercultural communication.
- Digital diplomacy and social media strategies.
- Diplomatic writing skills, including crafting diplomatic notes and correspondence.
- Development communication, focusing on participatory and practical approaches for impactful messaging.
Interactive methodology:
The course employs a dynamic, hands-on approach featuring:
- Keynote presentations by seasoned diplomats and communication experts.
- Real-life simulations, including press conferences and media interviews.
- Collaborative workshops on designing development communication initiatives.
- Group exercises to foster collaboration and peer learning.
- Personalized feedback to enhance individual strengths.
Sample course structure
Day 1: Strategic communication in diplomacy
- Foundations of strategic communication: principles, tools, and approaches.
- Navigating cultural and political sensitivities in high-stakes environments.
- Crafting compelling narratives to advance diplomatic objectives.
Day 2: Media engagement and development communication
- Techniques for impactful public speaking and presentations.
- Managing press interactions and high-pressure interviews.
- Participatory communication approaches for development initiatives.
Day 3: Diplomatic writing and applied practice
- Writing diplomatic notes and correspondence tailored to formal audiences.
- Real-life simulations of press conferences, media interviews, and crisis responses.
- Peer and expert feedback on individual and group exercises.
Who should attend?
This course is ideal for:
- Diplomats and government officials involved in international relations.
- Communication and public affairs officers in international organizations.
- Media and press advisors in diplomatic settings.
Previous clients
The ITCILO has successfully delivered communication training for:
- Palestinian ambassadors through the “Ali della Colomba” project, enhancing media and public engagement skills.
- FAO communication officers in East Africa, focusing on storytelling and advocacy for development.
How to get started
For inquiries and to customize a training programme for your organization, please contact us at learninginnovation@itcilo.org.
FAQs
How do I apply?
Tailor-made courses are developed collaboratively between the ITCILO and your organization. To get started, simply reach out via email, and we’ll work with you to design the ideal learning experience.
What are the admission criteria?
There is no formal application process for tailor-made courses. We collaborate with you to identify the right participants based on factors such as job experience, language skills, and academic background, ensuring the course meets your team’s needs.
What does the course fee cover?
Course fees are determined through discussions between stakeholders and the ITCILO team. Fees generally cover:
Tuition: Course preparation, delivery, and evaluation; training materials and resources; access to facilities and support services. For face-to-face courses, tuition may also cover study tours (if planned) and emergency medical insurance.
Subsistence: Accommodation and full board on campus, laundry services (for courses longer than one week), and local study visits (if planned). For courses held outside of Turin, subsistence includes accommodation, full board, and incidentals, depending on the facilities available.
What if I need to cancel?
The following cancellation policy applies:
- 14+ days before the course start date: No penalty, 100% refund (minus applicable bank charges)
- 8–13 days before the course start date: 50% penalty on course price, with a refund of the residual amount (if any), minus bank charges
- 7 days or less before the course start date: 100% penalty on course price
How many participants are in each session?
Tailor-made courses typically accommodate 20 to 30 participants, allowing for an engaging and interactive learning environment.
