Europe, Diplomacy & Cultural Leadership
Join us for an intensive week-long programme exploring the intersections of European governance, diplomatic practice, and cultural influence on the world stage. This immersive experience combines rigorous academic sessions with experiential learning in two of France’s most iconic cities—Paris and Nice.
Designed for university students and early-career professionals, this summer school offers unique insights into
contemporary diplomacy, soft power strategies, and the evolving role of Europe in global affairs. Through expert-led seminars, site visits, and interactive discussions, participants will develop practical skills whilst building an international network of peers passionate about shaping tomorrow’s diplomatic landscape.
October 2026
One intensive week
Paris / Nice
Two dynamic cities
Cost
1,750€
Monday, 15 June 2026
Foundations of European Diplomacy
PARIS
The programme launches with an engaging ice-breaking session and our signature Daily International Diplomatic Review—a regular feature throughout the week that keeps participants informed of breaking developments in global affairs. This interactive morning sets the tone for collaborative learning and peer exchange.
1) 10:00 – 11:00 :
Welcome & Daily International Diplomatic Review
2) 11:00 – 13:00 :
Europe & Global Governance
3) 13:00 – 14:30 :
Lunch Break
4) 14:30 – 17:30 :
Soft Power in Practice
5) 17:30 – 20:30 :
Discover Paris
Our morning session examines how the European Union navigates complex international institutions, whilst the afternoon explores Official Development Assistance—a crucial yet often underestimated instrument of soft power. The day concludes with an opportunity to experience Paris’s diplomatic quarter and historic boulevards.
Tuesday, 16 June 2026
Technology, Culture & Contemporary Diplomacy
Day two addresses two rapidly evolving domains of international relations: artificial intelligence governance and cultural diplomacy. As AI reshapes global power dynamics, understanding its governance implications becomes essential for tomorrow’s diplomatic leaders.
The afternoon session explores how culture and sport function as diplomatic vehicles—from the Olympics to cultural institutes abroad. These seemingly “soft” tools wield significant influence in shaping international perceptions and building bridges between nations.
09:00 – 12:00 :
Artificial Intelligence & Global Governance
13:30 – 16:30 :
Cultural and Sports Diplomacy
17:00 – 18:00 :
Daily International Diplomatic Review
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Diplomatic Paris & Journey South
Travel Day: Following the morning tour, the group will transfer to Nice, arriving in the evening. This journey
takes us from France’s political capital to its Mediterranean gateway—a region with its own rich diplomatic
history.
The afternoon and evening are dedicated to our journey south, where participants can relax, reflect on the week’s learnings thus far, and prepare for the programme’s concluding sessions on the Côte d’Azur.
Thursday, 18 June 2026
Consular Practice & Media Influence in Nice
Arriving in Nice, we shift focus to the practical dimensions of diplomatic work. The morning session examines diplomatic and consular relations—the essential but often invisible work that protects citizens abroad, facilitates international movement, and maintains bilateral ties.
Our afternoon module explores the intricate relationship between politics and media in an age of instant communication. How do information flows shape diplomatic outcomes? What role do journalists play in international relations? How can diplomats effectively navigate an increasingly complex media landscape?
01) 10:00 – 13:00 : Diplomatic and Consular Relations
Understanding protocols, privileges, immunities, and the daily operations of embassies and consulates
02) 13:00 – 14:30: Lunch Break
Dining along the Promenade des Anglais with fellow participants
03) 14:30 – 16:30: Politics and Media
How information shapes global politics, from traditional journalism to social media diplomacy
04) 17:00 – 18:00: International News Briefing
Analysis and discussion of current diplomatic developments and their implications
The day concludes with our penultimate International News Briefing, where participants apply their week’s learning to analyse breaking developments in real-time—a skill essential for any diplomatic career.
Friday, 19 June 2026
Peacebuilding & Experiential Discovery
Our final day addresses perhaps diplomacy’s most crucial mission: building and sustaining peace. The morning session examines contemporary peacebuilding strategies, from post-conflict reconstruction to preventive diplomacy.
Participants explore case studies, engage with practitioners’ insights, and consider how emerging challenges – from climate change to cyber warfare—complicate traditional peacekeeping frameworks.
01) 09:00 – 12:00: Peacebuilding Module
Examining mediation, negotiation, and sustainable conflict resolution strategies
02) 12:00 – 13:30: Lunch Break
Final group meal together in Nice’s Old Town
03) 13:30 – 17:30: Treasure Hunt: Discovering Nice
An interactive exploration viewing Nice through diplomatic and historical lenses
The programme concludes with an innovative treasure hunt that challenges participants to discover Nice through the eyes of diplomacy. Teams navigate the city solving puzzles related to its historical role in European affairs, international treaties signed on the Riviera, and contemporary diplomatic presence. This experiential finale reinforces learning whilst celebrating the connections forged during an intensive week together.
“Diplomacy is not just about negotiating treaties—it’s about understanding cultures, building relationships, and imagining shared futures. This summer school provides the foundation for all three.”
Please note: The programme is subject to minor changes based on speaker availability and evolving international developments. Participants will be notified of any adjustments in advance.