Europe and the wider world face complex, multifaceted and fundamental security challenges at an ever-expansive scale. Whether it is new threats such as cybersecurity, the impact of environmental degradation on security and livelihoods, the societal impacts of the impending robotics and artificial intelligence revolution or the resurgence of classical threats, such as nuclear proliferation, arms races, regional conflicts, information warfare, hybrid warfare and the challenges of peacekeeping, peace-building and conflict resolution, the next generation of students and analysts must be literate in the analytical tools and policy-oriented solutions to a wide range of security problems.
To this end, since 2018, the Global Governance Institute (GGI) together with the Belgian Royal Military Academy, and a network of senior scholars and policy-makers from international organisations (such as NATO, the European Union and the United Nations) team up every summer to deliver a unique 10-day intensive summer school from the political capital of Europe. This summer school brings together theoretical and policy-oriented perspectives from peace studies, security studies and strategic studies. Students will learn first-hand from some of the leading scholars and senior practitioners about major security challenges and how to apply concrete policy solutions in an integrative manner.
The GPSSS programme provided me with precious insights into the fascinating world of security issues. The added value of having speakers coming from the military, the academic environment and IOs is that you get to approach each of the many topics of the programme from different angles. Moreover, the possibility to connect with like-minded people from literally everywhere is priceless!
As a GPSSS participant, I can confidently say that the programme was an enriching and rewarding experience. The courses offered over ten days covered a wide range of subjects including cybersecurity, environmental degradation, nuclear proliferation, regional conflicts, information warfare, hybrid warfare, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution. The diverse speakers, including academic experts and practitioners from various national, European, and international institutions, provided valuable perspectives. I highly recommend this summer school to anyone who is looking to expand their knowledge and skills in a dynamic learning environment.
As a young professional with a background in international security (holding an MA in International Security), I found GPSSS to be an incredible experience. The thorough organisation of the learning process, diverse speakers, high quality of teaching, the interactive structure of the course, and the opportunity to network with like-minded and motivated individuals are exactly what GPSSS offers to its students. The summer school provides deep insights into the fascinating domain of international security, aiming to develop a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics and complexity of the field and its nuances from a global perspective.
A great programme, comprehensive and a lot of experts that work 14 years in relevant positions in UN, EU or NATO or academia. As an IR student I was able to get a broad overview of security studies without losing the ability to go in depth. It was enriching to be able to ask the experts any question that comes into your mind. The simulation game was also interesting in the end of the two weeks, where we were simulating a G20 summit. All in all, it was very much worth it, and I thank once again the organisers, lecturers, and participants!
As a GPSSS graduate, I can guarantee that this intensive summer school will exceed your expectations. With a variety of lectures and simulation games, I was able not only to acquire new knowledge but to also interactively engage with my highly reputable professors and experts that helped me to better understand the complex but exciting topics of strategy, security, global governance and many more. If you want a summer school that is well structured, that is run by professionals and that you will graduate knowing that you will make good friends along the way, look no further.
Programme – The 2024 programme will be announced soon. In the meantime, please consult the GPSSS 2023 brochure to understand programme structure and thematic focus of the lectures.
Admissions – Applicants need to fill out the summer school application form. After submitting the form successfully, applicants will receive a confirmation email. We evaluate and accept participants to the programme on a rolling basis. An answer can be expected within maximum one week of submission. For any questions or requests, please get in touch.
Certificate – The Global Governance Institute will award a certificate to all participants who successfully complete the programme. This can be achieved if participants attend a minimum of 70% of all sessions, actively engage in all activities and complete the assignments.
Credits – The Royal Military Academy and GGI will award 6 ECTS for successful completion of the credit track. This can be achieved if students attend all sessions, take part in the final simulation and complete one written assignment in the form of a policy paper. Students’ institutions will decide whether the credits can be integrated in an educational programme.
Registration Fee – €1700. The fee includes access to all sessions, learning materials and a 3-month access to the digital learning platform, lunch, coffee and refreshments throughout the summer school, as well as the welcome dinner, graduation ceremony reception, and social activities in Brussels.
Cancellation Policy – Participants can withdraw from the programme, and receive a refund upon written notification as follows: 30 or more days before the start – full refund, 15 to 29 days before the start – 50% refund. No refund will be granted if notification of withdrawal is given fewer than 15 days before the start of the winter school.
