The Future of Diplomacy

Shaping Global Diplomacy for the Next Century: Innovation, Inclusion, and Impact

At the Geneva Graduate Institute, we are proud to lead the way in shaping the future of diplomacy. With a rich academic history spanning almost a century, we are poised to celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2027. From our beginnings beside the budding League of Nations to our current standing as a global leader in diplomatic studies, our journey has been marked by innovation, excellence, and a commitment to forging new paths in international relations.

 

Our History: A Legacy of Excellence


Since our establishment in 1927, the Geneva Graduate Institute has been at the forefront of diplomatic studies. Our century-long legacy is a testament to our dedication to academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and global engagement. As we prepare to commemorate our centennial milestone, we reflect proudly on our contributions to the field of diplomacy and look forward to continued leadership in the years to come.

 

Embracing New Diplomacies: A Transformative Approach


The landscape of diplomacy is evolving, and so is the Institute. In an era characterised by unprecedented challenges and opportunities, traditional notions of diplomacy are giving way to a new paradigm. Gone are the days of closed-door negotiations and exclusive "old boys clubs." Instead, we embrace a pluralistic approach to diplomacy, one that acknowledges the diverse voices, perspectives, and stakeholders shaping international affairs today.

From the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), from human security to gender equality, the issues driving diplomatic discourse have expanded and diversified. At the Geneva Graduate Institute, we are committed to exploring these dynamic themes and equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives needed to navigate the complexities of modern diplomacy.

 

A World of Opportunities: Our Offerings


Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. Through our Master in International and Development Studies programme, we provide students with a comprehensive understanding of diplomatic theory and practice, preparing them to lead in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, our Executive Education programmes offer professionals the opportunity to enhance their skills and stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

 

Summer School Module


The Institute launched a new Summer School module in 2024 entitled “From Diplomacy to New Diplomacies”, originally designed and directed by Professor Mohamed Mahmoud Mohamedou. This module will continue in 2025 and examines the evolution of diplomacy from its traditional state-led configuration and processes to the new emerging set of issues and actors shaping the plural new diplomacies. Through a combination of conceptual and practical sessions, participants do a deep-dive into these fast-changing issues, giving particular attention to new spaces of diplomatic engagement, technological tools, and expanding multi-stakeholder governance. 

 

Join Us in Shaping the Future


As we look ahead to the next chapter in the evolution of diplomacy in a changing world, we invite you to join us on this transformative journey. Whether you are a student, a scholar, a practitioner, or a global citizen committed to positive change, the Geneva Graduate Institute offers a vibrant community and a wealth of opportunities to engage with the pressing issues of our time. Together, let us shape the future of diplomacy and build a more inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous world for all.