The three day-long Strategic Communication Course is taking place at RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation on 02-04 July 2024, and has attracted more than 25 participants from the region.
The subject Course is a direct result of cooperation between the Hellenic Multinational Peace Support Operations Training Center (MPSOTC) and RACVIAC – Centre for Security Cooperation. The Course will shed light on the role played by strategic communication in a rapidly changing landscape shaped by intensive digitalization, the emergence of innovative technologies, the proliferation of online disinformation, and the ever-eroding trust in public institutions.
The overall purpose of the Course is to familiarize Officers, NCOs and civilians with the necessary knowledge and skills regarding Strategic Communications (StratCom) in accordance with the relevant NATO training material (unclassified) and, in particular, to ensure consistency and credibility of communications through comprehensive coordination.
The Course is going to be executed in accordance with the MPSOTC certified Programme and will consist of lectures, discussions, syndicate work and individual case studies.
The Course was opened by H.E. Ambassador Constantin-Mihail Grigorie, Director of RACVIAC and Colonel Dimitrios Karatzas, Commander of MPSOTC.
Ambassador Grigorie in his Introductory speech pointed out that this is RACVIAC second activity organized in close cooperation with the Multinational Peace Support Operations Training Centre and their network of experts. RACVIAC is dedicated to tracking security challenges affecting our societies and finding relevant partners in search of common responses. The mission of fostering dialogue and cooperation in SEE cannot be achieved without the use of principles of Strategic Communication, he said.
He thanked the esteemed speakers, instructors from the Multinational Peace Support Operations Training Centre of the Hellenic Republic and distinguished group of professionals with extensive experience in the field. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge, practical insights, and real-world experiences that will help enrich the participants’ learning experience, Ambassador Grigorie said, and added: “They will challenge you to think critically, to question assumptions and to push the boundaries of conventional wisdom”.
RACVIAC Director emphasized that in today’s rapidly evolving world the role of communication has never been more critical. From the corridors of power in government and corporate boardrooms to the vibrant platforms of social media and the intimate conversations that shape personal relationships, communication is the thread that weaves the fabric of our society. It is through effective communication that we bridge divides, foster understanding, and drive progress, he added.
Furthermore, Ambassador Grigorie reflected on the design of the Course, which is to immerse the participants in the art and science of strategic communication: “You will explore the principles of message development, audience analysis, media relations, and digital communication strategies. You will learn to craft compelling narratives, manage crises, and navigate the complex landscape of public opinion.”
Director of RACVIAC also reminded all of the attendees not to forget the broader context in which we operate. We live in an age where misinformation and disinformation can spread like wildfire, where public trust in institutions is waning, and where the demand for transparency and accountability is higher than ever. As strategic communicators, you have a vital role to play in addressing these challenges. You have the power to influence perceptions, shape narratives, and drive meaningful change. With this power comes a profound responsibility—to communicate ethically, to uphold the truth, and to serve the public good, he concluded.
Commander of MPSOTC, Colonel Dimitrios Karatzas, introduced a skilled team of communication professionals who will deliver the Course imparting practical skills and an understanding essential for integrating strategic communications across various operational contexts and emphasized that MPSOTC remains committed to delivering high-standard training that unites diverse perspectives and upholds the rigorous communication protocols of NATO.
Furthermore, he congratulated RACVIAC for the overall organization and expressed his confidence that the Course will be fruitful for all attendees, including the lecturers. He praised the efforts of RACVIAC personnel in organizing this activity.
More than 25 participants from the military, police and from other levels of government, i.e. ministries of foreign affairs, defense, environment and internal affairs from Albania, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and Kosovo* are attending the Course.
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* This Designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.(In accordance with Arrangements regarding regional representation and cooperation.)
