These seminars are intended for King’s College London BA and MA students only.

Speaker: Jock McMillan

This module explores the transformative role of social media in the realm of diplomacy and international relations. Through a series of seminars, students will examine how digital platforms have reshaped the ways states interact, communicate policies, and engage with both domestic and international audiences. The course will delve into case studies highlighting successful and unsuccessful uses of social media in diplomatic contexts, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of digital diplomacy's evolving landscape.

Learning Objectives: By the end of this module, students will be able to:

1. Analyse the impact of digital communications channels on contemporary diplomatic practices and international relations.
2. Evaluate the strategies employed by states to leverage digital communications for diplomatic purposes.
3. Critically assess the challenges and opportunities presented by digital platforms in the conduct of diplomacy.
4. Apply theoretical frameworks to understand the role of digital communication in shaping state behaviours and public perception.

Structure: The course comprises three seminars, each focusing on a distinct aspect of digital diplomacy:

Seminar 1: The Evolution of Diplomacy in the Digital Age -  24th February, Bush House (SE) 1.01

• Overview of traditional diplomatic practices and how it has shifted in the digital age.
• Introduction to digital diplomacy and its significance.
• Case studies on the integration of social media into diplomatic strategies

To register for Seminar 1 click here

Seminar 2: Strategic Communication and Statecraft on Social Platforms - 10th March, Bush House (SE) 1.01

• Analysis of state-led digital communications campaigns both domestically and internationally.
• Tools and techniques for effective digital engagement.
• Ethical considerations and the impact of misinformation

To register for Seminar 2 click here

Seminar 3: Challenges and Future Directions in Digital Diplomacy - 17th March, Bush House (SE) 1.01

• Navigating cyber threats and information security.
• The role of non-state actors and digital influencers.
• Predicting future trends in diplomatic communication

To register for Seminar 3 click here

Individual Seminar Structure/Activity

In addition to knowledge sharing from working with governments and Foreign Ministries around the world, the course would utilise the following activity to engage students and provide a more practical course:

• Case Study Analysis. Provide evidence of effective digital diplomacy/state backed information distribution that you’ve come across or been influenced by.
• Simulation Exercise. Students role-play as diplomats crafting a social media campaign for a hypothetical international scenario.

About the Speaker:

Jock McMillan is a leading digital communications strategist and the founder of Knox Digital. With extensive experience across more than 15 countries, he specializes in crafting opinion­ shifting campaigns that drive tangible action. Before launching Knox, Jock served as a Special Adviser to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Foreign Secretaries David Cameron and James Cleverly, where he shaped strategic communications on global issues such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and conflict in the Middle East.

At the Foreign Office, Jock played a pivotal role in shaping the UK's artificial intelligence and emerging technology policy. He advised on the launch of the Al for Development Fund and organizing the Al Safety Summit, bringing the US and China to the same table for the first time in relation to artificial intelligence. Jock also led the FCDO's modelling and strategy on the UK's long term diplomacy and engagement, identifying the 20 most influential nations to engage by 2050.

Jock has led policy initiatives on Latin America and the Caribbean, including the UK's stance on the Falkland Islands, colonial reparations and climate change in the Caribbean.

Whilst in 10 Downing Street, Jock advised the Prime Minister and the UK government on digital diplomacy, managing high-level campaigns and communications with international leaders.

Before government, Jock directed election and digital campaigns in diverse regions, from conflict zones like Libya, Haiti, and Ukraine to developed nations and international organizations, including the World Trade Organization.