Young Diplomat Summer School 2025: Disinformation & Diplomacy

About

In a world where global events unfold in real time across digital platforms, the ability to navigate truth, perception, and power has become an essential skill for future leaders. Disinformation, propaganda, and influence campaigns are now core tools in the geopolitical arsenal — shaping elections, fueling conflict, and challenging the foundations of diplomacy and democratic dialogue.

The Young Diplomat Summer School on Diplomacy and Disinformation offers a unique opportunity for students and young professionals to delve into this critical and fast-evolving field. Taking place in The Hague, the international city of peace and justice, this program brings together a diverse group of curious, ambitious, and globally minded individuals for an intensive and immersive learning experience.

Over the course of the program, participants will explore how diplomacy is adapting in an era dominated by information warfare and digital manipulation. Through interactive lectures, hands-on workshops, simulations, and expert-led discussions, you'll examine how disinformation operates in international politics, how governments and institutions are responding, and what role young professionals can play in shaping a more resilient and informed global society.

The Summer School is designed to be both intellectually rigorous and practically relevant. You’ll gain insight from seasoned diplomats, researchers, journalists, and cybersecurity experts — and work alongside peers from around the world who share your passion for international affairs, strategic communication, and global cooperation. Whether you aspire to work in diplomacy, media, public policy, or international advocacy, the program equips you with the tools to understand complex narratives, critically assess information, and engage in meaningful, ethical communication.

Set in the heart of The Hague, this program also offers the chance to experience a city that lives and breathes diplomacy. From international courts and embassies to NGOs and think tanks, The Hague provides the perfect backdrop for a summer of learning, networking, and global inspiration.

Join us this summer and become part of a new generation committed to promoting truth, dialogue, and diplomacy in the digital age

Course leader

Hans van den Berg - Director of the Young Diplomat

Target group

To be admitted for this program you do not need previous experience, knowledge, or related studies in the field. The minimum age is 18 with no maximum age, there are no further restrictions on educational background or work experience. This program is open to anyone interested in the subject and wishing to obtain experience with diplomacy and negotiation

Course aim

GAIN THEORETICAL INSIGHTS
You will be challenged to gather theoretical insights in the rapidly developing field of diplomacy in relation to cultural diplomacy from leading figures in the field.

WORK ON NEGOTIATION AND DIPLOMACY SKILLS
Gain valuable skills through a proven combination of applying theoretical knowledge in high end simulations. During the summer school, you will develop skills for public speaking, speech writing, doing research for negotiation and reporting.

START BUILDING YOUR OWN INTERNATIONAL NETWORK
Build your international network through the Young Diplomat community and meet with diplomats from different disciplines. The Young Diplomat community offers you the opportunity to find new contacts within the field.

Fee info