Workshop: Communication and Media Manipulation in Conflicts
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The new geopolitics is forcing anyone who deals with media aspects and information in general to structure themselves to understand, with a high degree of effectiveness, what are the mainstream backbones of the information system that now involves every area of our planet. Knowing how to distinguish, recognize and possibly contain phenomena of counter-information and intelligence actions, re-establishing ethically correct communication processes, is one of the priorities for those who will find themselves working both in information and in institutions and ultimately in all civil contexts of democratic societies. Professionals engaged in such complex challenges will have to rapidly acquire tools and procedures, both technological and human, to be able to make an effective contribution to ethical lines capable of bringing order to a system currently characterized by media outcry and confusion, typical of situations of open conflict or latent conflict between nations. To this end, the analysis of real cases in which propaganda and counter-information have changed the course of history is essential.
Expected learning outcomes
It is expected that the students who will participate in this laboratory will have assimilated some tools aimed at the individualization of distorting phenomena of information and communication. At the same time, they will have acquired techniques to contrast such induced dyscrasias by all the operating intelligence organizations. The knowledge of the technological mechanisms linked to the use of Artificial Intelligence, alongside the themes of humint, will be the subject of a particular focus.
Lesson period: Second semester
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
The workshop aims to analyze and understand the mechanisms of information manipulation, counterinformation, and the counteraction to such actions through both a historical and current overview. Specifically, the course will focus on recognizing and analyzing counterinformation phenomena and intelligence actions, identifying ethically sound communication processes. It will also seek to define the technological mechanisms underlying the use of Artificial Intelligence, coupled with humint actions.
Prerequisites for admission
Since this is a workshop on geopolitics and the current world scenario, a certain knowledge of contemporary history in its main aspects is required, as well as a good understanding of the evolution of certain forms of expression adopted during periods of conflict in previous centuries.
Teaching methods
The course consists of lectures, with specific time dedicated to discussion, observations, and questions from students. The instructor may also use images, audio, and audiovisual materials to support the program's themes and content.
Additional elements of the workshop will include real-life case histories, group work, and testimonials from key players in the world of geopolitics and geoeconomics.
Additional elements of the workshop will include real-life case histories, group work, and testimonials from key players in the world of geopolitics and geoeconomics.
Teaching Resources
M. Giusto, "Comunicazione Dal Potere alla Responsabilità - Gli scenari e le professioni", Milano, Mursia, 2025.
Assessment methods and Criteria
At the end of the workshop, the content presented during the lectures and any practical tests will be evaluated, as well as the students' understanding of the material. This may be done through individual interviews or through the evaluation of group work.
Incoming international or Erasmus students are encouraged to contact the workshop instructor promptly.
Incoming international or Erasmus students are encouraged to contact the workshop instructor promptly.
Professor(s)