Where are diplomats and international relations specialists of the 21st century trained? 📚 On April 17, the MGIMO International Applicants Club hosted an online lecture titled “Training Diplomats and International Relations Specialists in the 21st Century: MGIMO’s Experience and the Architecture of the Future.” During the event, Sofya Melnikova, Candidate of Historical Sciences, lecturer at the Department of Diplomacy, and researcher at the Institute of International Studies at MGIMO University of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared her insights with the participants on what a modern international affairs specialist looks like. She also spoke about the School of International Relations, where such professionals are trained. We are sharing the key takeaways from the lecture! It is important to understand that today we are witnessing a transformation of the global system of international relations, and this period is characterized by: ✔the crisis of unipolarity; ✔rising conflict; ✔erosion of the Westphalian model and the growing influence of non-state actors; ✔crisis of international institutions; ✔digitalization and the increasing importance of AI and social networks; ✔redistribution of power and the emergence of new centers of power. Under these conditions, we need people ready to shape and manage a new world order. What are the key competencies of 21st-century leaders?For a diplomat: ➖mastery of network and digital diplomacy tools; ➖knowledge of negotiation strategies and tactics; ➖“diplomatic resilience.” A politician must be an architect of meaning, who: ➖knows how to engage with diverse populations and interest groups; ➖possesses strategic thinking and networking skills. The future businessman is about: ➖geopolitical analytics; ➖adaptability; ➖technological intuition. Finally, for an international affairs specialist, the following are important: ➖interdisciplinarity; ➖the ability to ask creative questions; ➖a deep understanding of both Western and “non-Western” development models. 🎓 Who are the graduates of the School of International Relations? 44% of graduates pursue traditional diplomacy; 17% work in media and NGOs; 15% work in the commercial sector and business; 14% dedicate their lives to science; 10% work in public service. Among the Schools’s graduates are: ✅3 presidents; ✅19 ministers of foreign affairs; ✅8 senior officials of the UN system; ✅dozens of ambassadors extraordinary and plenipotentiary; ✅heads of various ministries and agencies; and a multitude of high-class specialists ready to work in a new, transforming, and turbulent global environment. We thank Ms. Melnikova for her inspiring lecture and remind you that you can start the path to your dream career right now by submitting your application for bachelor’s or preparatory programs. Learn more about MGIMO on our website. 🌐MGIMO International (ENG) / МГИМО для иностранцев (RUS)