Skip to main content

Section outline

  • In this first section of the course, we examine current trends in the information environment, the development of mainstream media and social media and how they affect the way citizens access information and the types of information they are exposed to. It also examines how narratives can be used in disinformation and propaganda campaigns, paying particular attention to the increasing prevalence of conspiracy theories. Another important topic that will be explored is the novel approach of using intelligence in strategic communication to set the right framework for understanding current social developments.


    • S1.1. Conflict and its manifestation in the information environment


      1. Conflict and its manifestation in the information environment

      2. Hybrid warfare/threats

      3. Cognitive and information warfare



    • S1.2 Legitimate and illegitimate use of information and persuasion in the information environment

      1. Disinformation
      2. Foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI)
      3. Cyber information operations



    • S1.3. Case studies of hostile narratives and conspiracy theories by authoritarian state and non-state actors

      1. Case studies of hostile narratives and conspiracy theories by authoritarian state and non-state actors.

    • S1.4. Evaluation Module 1