Strategic Communications

Strategic communications is a powerful tool used by governments, insurgents, and non-state actors to shape long-term narratives and influence public perception. But in an age of political instability and global disruption, the ability to control messaging — through words, images, and actions — has become increasingly complex.

In this self-paced course from King’s College London, you will explore how strategic communications operates across national, cultural, and ideological contexts. Led by Dr Neville Bolt, Director of the King’s Centre for Strategic Communications, the course blends theory with real-world case studies, examining:

• The evolution of strategic communications and its conceptual foundations

• How memory, storytelling, and environment shape long-term discourse

• The use of strategic communications by state challengers, revolutionaries, and insurgents

• The influence of different cultural and geopolitical perspectives, including China, Russia, Brazil, and South Africa

• The challenges posed by complexity, populism, and decentralised networks in the 21st century

Through global case studies and critical reflection, you will gain a robust understanding of strategic communications as a core component of power and influence in international affairs.

This is a short course that can be completed in 5 hours — designed to be flexible and fit into your schedule.