Digital Diplomacy and International Relations
 

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In an era defined by rapid digital transformation, digital diplomacy has emerged as a powerful and dynamic force, reshaping international relations and influencing global public opinion. In response to these evolving realities, Al-Quds Open University launched the Digital Diplomacy and International Relations program to meet the growing demand for qualified professionals capable of navigating this strategic field with insight, skill, and national commitment.

As a pioneering academic institution, Al-Quds Open University plays a vital role in empowering communities across all governorates by providing accessible, high-quality education. Through its commitment to academic innovation, QOU continually develops programs that align with global trends and national priorities.

This program builds on the digital revolution’s impact on diplomacy, where mobile phones and social media platforms have enabled Palestinian activists to reach international audiences and advocate for the national narrative often with limited resources. These grassroots efforts have reignited global interest in the Palestinian cause and demonstrated the transformative potential of citizen-led digital diplomacy.

Despite significant progress, digital diplomacy in Palestine remains largely volunteer-driven and lacks formal institutional support. This program seeks to address that gap by offering structured academic training and preparing a new generation of professionals capable of producing compelling digital content, countering disinformation, and advocating effectively for justice and truth.

Far from being a mere extension of traditional diplomacy, digital diplomacy empowers not only states but also individuals, communities, and organizations to influence international dialogue and policymaking. It serves as a strategic tool for advancing the Palestinian cause and fostering global cooperation.

Mission
 

To prepare leadership cadres with extensive knowledge in digital diplomacy and international relations, and to equip Palestinian and Arab communities both in the diaspora and the local market with leaders who possess distinguished political insight and strong analytical skills. These graduates will support official political institutions and bodies in addressing local, regional, and global challenges, while contributing to the articulation and reinforcement of the national vision and narrative.

Vision
 

To be a leading academic force in the field of digital diplomacy and international relations by developing exceptional professionals who combine strategic insight with the effective use of digital tools to enhance global communication, foster mutual understanding, and build bridges between cultures and nations in the digital era.

General Objectives
 

The Digital Diplomacy and International Relations program seeks to achieve the following overarching goals:

  1. Prepare graduates with advanced academic and practical skills for careers in digital diplomacy and international relations.
  2. Develop professionally trained cadres qualified to work as researchers and academic instructors in diplomacy and international affairs.
  3. Meet labor market demands by producing well-qualified graduates equipped for roles in this evolving field.
  4. Provide local and international public institutions with skilled personnel for ministries and diplomatic bodies.
  5. Equip graduates to effectively convey, advocate for, and defend the Palestinian national vision and narrative on the global stage.
Specific Objectives
 

The program also aims to achieve a set of specific objectives through graduate research and scholarly studies, including:

  1. Enriching strategic thinking in Palestine and the broader Arab world.
  2. Anticipating future developments and deepening awareness of current challenges.
  3. Understanding global transformations and their strategic implications for the region.
  4. Acquiring cognitive tools and methodologies to monitor and interpret political developments.
  5. Understanding and analyzing international and global events and issues.
  6. Building familiarity with conceptual frameworks and knowledge systems in global political issues, progressing from foundational to advanced levels.
  7. Distinguishing between classical and critical political theories relevant to international relations.
  8. Applying analytical frameworks to assess political challenges and realities.
  9. Building foundational knowledge in digital diplomacy, its concepts, theories, methods, and analytical tools.
  10. Developing a strong grounding in international relations, including core theories and methodologies.
  11. Affirming national principles and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people by crafting compelling cultural narratives that advance their cause.
  12. Monitoring political shifts and responding with scientific insight, while producing graduates capable of contributing to the education of Palestinian and Arab communities abroad.
  13. Preparing qualified and experienced professionals who can promote the Palestinian narrative and expose the injustices of occupation effectively.
Specific Objectives
 

Graduates of this program will be qualified to compete in both the Palestinian and global labor markets in a range of fields, including:

  • Palestinian embassies and national representatives abroad.
  • Press and media institutions, and research centers specializing in strategic studies.
  • Institutions within the diplomatic corps
  • The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • Radio programs that focus on diplomacy and international relations.
  • Educational centers, institutes, and academic institutions.
  • Cultural and civilizational exchange initiatives.
  • Centers for strategic and diplomatic research and analysis.