Call for Applications, StratCom Youth Academy 2017 in Riga, Latvia

Deadline:  5 June 2017
Open to: participants between the ages of 20 and 27 years old, linked to any ATA/YATA chapter
Venue: 5– 6 July, 2017 in Riga, Latvia

Description

Stratcom Youth Academy 2017 is a unique possibility for future leaders to raise awareness about the concept and current trends of strategic communications and the role of media in the modern politics. The Academy will be taking place simultaneously with one of the leading strategic communications forums in Europe organized by the NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence “The Riga StratCom Dialogue 2017” (www.rigstratcomdialogue.org).The Riga StratCom Dialogue 2017 will bring together experts, policy-makers, academics, and practitioners to create an in-depth discussion on how rapid changes in communications are affecting all sectors of our global society. This is one of the leading conferences currently focusing on strategic communications issues of utmost importance to NATO allies.

Rapid development of internet technologies has not only provided policy makers with numerous opportunities to communicate with society but also posed new challenges of sustaining domestic and international peace and security. Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, possible interference in the election processes in the USA and European countries, growth of populism and far right ideologies and also the activities of DAESH in the internet domain to radicalize and recruit have forced policy and decision makers to reflect on the ways how different media platforms can be used to achieve goals that are aimed against democratic states. Disinformation environment (propaganda and fake/biased news websites and networks used to distribute this disinformation) has helped gain control over large groups of people and create obstacles for national and transnational security.

Throughout four days, participants will have a chance to enhance their understanding of pivotal aspects of strategic communication, engage in workshops and meet and interact with prominent political and public figures by partly attending “The Riga StratCom Dialogue 2017” on 5-6 July, 2017.

The topics of the Stratcom Youth Academy 2017 will cover:

  • Concept of strategic communication and its current trends;
  • Russia’s propaganda – from soft power tools to annexation of Crimea;
  • Election information wars – rise of populism and far right wing in Europe and the USA;
  • Media platforms in the hands of DAESH – challenges and opportunities;
  • topics covered by the NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence conference “The Riga StratCom Dialogue 2017”.

Eligibility

In order to be considered eligible to apply, you must fulfill all of the following criteria:

  • 20-27 years old;
  • Active members or volunteers in any ATA/YATA chapter (highly preferable);
  • Fluent in English;
  • Interested in foreign policy and security issues;
  • Highly motivated to attend Stratcom Youth Academy 2017 and “The Riga StratCom Dialogue.” conference.

Costs

Participation fee: 200 EUR that includes:

  • Accommodation for 5 nights in Albert Hotel (2 persons in one room);
  • Meals during event;
  • Coffee breaks;
  • Transportation between conference venue and National Library of Latvia;
  • Farewell dinner;
  • Tour in Riga;

Participation fee for Latvian participants: 75 EUR that includes:

  • Meals during event;
  • Coffee breaks;
  • Transportation between conference venue and National Library of Latvia;
  • Farewell dinner;
  • Tour in Riga;

A limited number of scholarships are available for participants who are able to demonstrate their financial need as well as ability to bring relevant expertise and diverse perspectives to the conference.

Please note that travel costs are not included in the participation fee and are expected to be taken care of participants themselves.

Application

In order to apply for the event, please fill out the application form for Stratcom Youth Academy 2017 and submit it with uploaded required documents.

Additionally to CV and Motivation letter, due to given chance to attend high level NATO Strategic Communications Centre of Excellence event “The Riga StratCom Dialogue ” that is upon invitations only, applicants are asked to submit 5 most popular narratives in their countries that denigrate NATO – its concept, policies, missions, future goals etc.

In order to apply, register HERE.

Deadline is June 5, 2017

Results will be announced on June 7, 2017

If you have any questions, contact with Ms Sabine Stala via email: sabine@lato.lv.

The official web-page.

 

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