Micro-Credential Programme "Global Politics and Foreign Influence"

The Global Politics and Foreign Influence micro-credential explores the forces shaping global politics and the evolving structures of world order, and also information manipulation processes that aim to threaten security. Participants will investigate critical issues, including the role of digital societies, the resilience of democratic systems amid populism and disinformation, the impact of longstanding alliances and emerging security threats, and various forms of information disorder and approaches to countering foreign influence activities.

Additional information and registration

Planned timeframe: 04.03.2025 – 24.04.2025
Registration: 02.12.2024 – 26.01.2025
Language of instruction: English
Form of study: Real-time seminars and lectures will take place 100% online. Lectures will also be recorded and can be watched afterwards. The learners are expected to participate in at least 5 lectures in both courses.
Study fee: 1750 euros

Training schedule:
SVJS.00.104 Global Politics and World Order (Thursdays, 17.00-20.30 Eastern European Standard Time)
SVUH.00.291 Global Information Disorder and Foreign Influence (Tuesdays, 17.00-20.30 Eastern European Standard Time)

After completing the studies you will:

• understand and analyze the challenges of the information society and have an overview of the main approaches to dealing with hostile information influence activities
• recognize the information operations of various foreign countries and understand the use of strategic narratives and other international influence tools
• critically assess the role of regional and global alliances and their impact on world order and security
• evaluate the impact of digital transition and misinformation on governance, democracy, and international relations
• use various strategies and solutions to combat global information influence

Programme manager: Kristiina Tõnnisson, kristiina.tonnisson@ut.ee

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EXPERTS BEHIND THE PROGRAMME

Toomas Hendrik Ilves (1993-1996 Estonian Ambassador to Canada and Mexico, 1996-1998 and 1999-2020 Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia, 2004-2006 Member of the European Parliament and 2006-2016 President of the Republic of Estonia), Visiting Professor at the Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies, University of Tartu.

Dr Sten Hansson (MA and PhD in Communication Studies, Lancaster University), Associate Professor of Communication Studies at the Institute of Social Sciences, University of Tartu. Dr Sten Hansson is an internationally renowned researcher of political communication. His research into government rhetoric, strategic narratives, and crisis communication has appeared in leading international academic journals. Dr. Hansson also brings with him a decade of experience as a communication adviser at the Estonian Government Office.

Both lecturers have previous teaching experience on the named topics.