Effective Writing and Speaking Skills for Multilateral Diplomacy: Written Reporting, Public Speaking, and Speechwriting

The aim of the virtual course “EFFECTIVE WRITING AND SPEAKING SKILLS FOR MULTILATERAL DIPLOMACY: Written Reporting, Public Speaking and Speechwriting” is to identify areas participants need to improve, in order to give the impression of spontaneity and confidence while delivering their message to an audience as well as how to make the content of their speeches and reports pertinent and highly engaging. Drawing on the latest modern techniques in the ancient art of rhetoric (the skill of oration and persuasion) and writing, the trainers provide the staff with feedback enabling them to make immediate adjustments and improvements during the training at a behavioural - rather than simply at a theoretical - level.

By examining the essential professional qualities needed to sustain the world of multilateral diplomacy, participants will be enabled to further improve their high-level public speaking and writing competences. The ultimate objective is to strengthen the individual’s resilience under uncertainty, and to enable them to work efficiently during these challenging times.

The participants will learn from experts who will cover essential principles of written reporting, speechwriting, as well as public speaking. The training will consist of lectures and facilitated discussions by senior experts and practitioners in the field, as well as simulation exercises, role play and case studies, which will comprise a significant portion of the course.

Target Audience

The virtual course aims at strengthening the individual capacity of growth-oriented professionals working in a multilateral diplomatic professional environment, who are or aim to be in high-level roles requiring pivotal professional skills such as written reporting, public speaking, and speechwriting.

Specifically, this course is designed for mid to senior level staff in peacekeeping and political missions of the UN and regional organisations (AU, OSCE, EU, etc.), diplomats, those working in governments, non-governmental organisations, and academic institutions.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

Apply public speaking, presentation, speechwriting, and reporting techniques, – including preparation, structure, and delivery;
Acquire essential principles of the art and craft of speechwriting and written reporting;
Identify personal strengths and weaknesses as presenters and writers;
Demonstrate the ability to use voice and words to effect when giving presentations: wording, diction, intonation, rhythm, and pacing;
Implement acquired tools for combating public speaking anxiety.