Marta Ćwik-Hetman – Center for the Study of Diplomacy

CBnD KUL at the EISA Congress

The 19th Pan-European Conference on International Relations (PEC 2026) took place in Lisbon from September 1 to 4, 2026. Organized by the European International Studies Association (EISA) and hosted by ISCTE – University Institute of Lisbon, it is one of Europe’s premier academic events dedicated to contemporary international relations, bringing together researchers and experts from Europe and across the globe.

Among the participants was Dr. Hab. Beata Piskorska, Professor at KUL and Vice-Rector for Student Affairs and Internationalization, who also heads the KUL Centre for Diplomacy Research.

Professor Piskorska initiated, organized, and moderated the session titled “S16 – International Relations in the Age of Algorithms: Implications of Artificial Intelligence for European and Global Foreign and Security Policy and Diplomacy”, which attracted over 30 participants.

The session featured the following thematic panels:
– “Conceptual Framework of AI”,
– “Digital Europe: European Union, AI Governance in an Era of Geopolitical Competition”,
– “Global AI Governance Beyond the Great Powers”,
– “AI, War and Hybrid Security”,
– “AI Diplomacy, Governance, and Interdependence: Sino-German AI Entanglements”,
– “Narratives, Ideologies, and Societal Futures of AI”.

These were days of intense activity, marked by discussions, the exchange of experiences, and in-depth reflection on contemporary international politics—set against the backdrop of a world increasingly shaped by digitalization, rapid technological change, and growing geopolitical uncertainty. Participation in PEC 2026 offers not only the opportunity to present research findings and engage in discussions with the international academic community, but also a valuable platform for networking, fostering research collaboration, and collectively reflecting on the challenges facing international relations today.

EISA (European International Studies Association) is a leading European organization bringing together researchers and specialists in international relations and related fields.

Diplomatic protocol training at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin

How to properly seat guests at the table, ensure precedence, and flawlessly conduct official correspondence? Employees of the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin participated in specialized training in diplomatic protocol.

The workshops, aimed at further improving the university’s image, were led by an expert from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

On June 15-16, the KUL Center for the Study of Diplomacy organized specialized training in diplomatic protocol for employees of the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin. The event was attended by staff responsible for secretarial services, correspondence, event organization and international cooperation.

The training was led by Ms. Bogumiła Więcław from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Diplomatic Protocol Office, an expert in etiquette. Ms. Więcław acquired her skills both at foreign missions and at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters, where Ms. Więcław was responsible for protocol services for key state officials.

The program included training in etiquette at the table, combined with a demonstration meal, which was also attended by the staff of the “KULuary Smaków” restaurant, as well as diplomatic protocol classes for administrative staff. Topics covered included university precedence, correspondence rules, and organizing visits.

We sincerely thank Ms. Bogumila Więcław for another fruitful cooperation.

We are delighted that the training was very positively received by university staff and hope that the knowledge gained will contribute to further improving the university’s operational standards.

Third session of the Postgraduate Programme “Diplomacy and Foreign Service” at KUL

The third session of the prestigious “Diplomacy and Foreign Service” postgraduate program, run by the Center for Diplomatic Research at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, has just concluded. Meetings with experts and diplomats provided an opportunity to deepen theoretical knowledge, learn about the practical experiences of those involved in the foreign service, and exchange views on the current challenges facing diplomacy.

Session took place on 12–14 June 2026. The programme focused on key issues of contemporary diplomacy and foreign service, with lectures and workshops delivered by experienced diplomats and renowned experts in international relations.

The first day was dedicated to economic and export diplomacy. On the first day of the meeting, students were met by Anna Golec-Mastroianni, who served as Consul General of Poland in Milan from 2022 to 2024 and has headed the Polish-Italian Business Council since 2026. The expert has been active in public service for over 25 years, holding positions in local, regional, and economic government, as well as establishing organizations with a national and international reach.

Consul Anna Golec-Mastroianni discussed the role of diplomatic and consular missions in promoting national economic interests, supporting businesses in international markets, and strengthening economic cooperation between countries. Participants gained valuable insights into the practical dimensions of economic diplomacy and consular work.

On the second day, a lecture was given by political scientist Dr. hab. Tomasz Kamiński – university professor at the Faculty of International and Political Studies of the University of Lodz, head of the Center for Research on Paradiplomacy and City Diplomacy.

Professor Tomasz Kamiński introduced the concepts of paradiplomacy and city diplomacy, highlighting the growing importance of local and regional authorities in international cooperation. Through lectures and interactive workshops, participants examined examples of international engagement undertaken by cities and regions.

Later, Jolanta Róża Kozłowska – Consul General of Poland in Munich in 1998–2002 and Ambassador of Poland to Austria in 2017–2022, as well as CBnD KUL coordinator for cultural diplomacy – shared her extensive professional experience, presenting the realities of a diplomatic career, the ethos of public service, and the challenges of representing one’s country abroad.

The final day focused on cultural diplomacy. Dr. hab. Anna Umińska-Woroniecka – professor at the University of Wrocław – researcher of international relations, diplomacy and foreign policy studies – explored the role of culture as an instrument of foreign policy and an important tool for strengthening a country’s international image. Workshop activities enabled participants to better understand how cultural diplomacy contributes to international dialogue and cooperation.

The third session provided an excellent opportunity to deepen academic knowledge, learn from the experiences of distinguished practitioners, and exchange views on the contemporary challenges facing diplomacy. The meetings with experts offered participants valuable insights and practical perspectives on the evolving international environment and the work of modern diplomatic services.

Polish and Italian experts on the role of diplomacy in times of global crises

How to effectively resolve contemporary conflicts, combat online disinformation, and engage society in peacebuilding? These were some of the topics discussed by experts during the international academic seminar entitled “The Role of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution.” The event, jointly organized by the Center for Diplomacy Research at the Catholic University of Lublin and the Graduate School of Economics and International Relations (ASERI) at the University of Milan’s Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, is a step in strengthening Polish-Italian academic cooperation and a foretaste of a major conference planned for the fall.

The contemporary geopolitical map presents diplomats and researchers with challenges unlike any we have seen in decades. The academic seminar, entitled “The Role of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution”, which took place on June 11, 2026 at the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, became a platform for the exchange of ideas between experts and researchers from Polish and Italian academic centers specializing in diplomacy, international relations, security, and regional and global conflicts.

The seminar was opened by prof. Beata Piskorska, vice-rector for students and internationalisation at KUL and head of the Center for the Study of Diplomacy KUL. In her introductory remarks, she outlined the objectives of the meeting, emphasizing the importance of international academic cooperation in researching the role of diplomacy in contemporary conflict resolution. She also highlighted that the seminar constituted an important preparatory stage for the international academic conference scheduled for October, 2026 in Milan.

The first presentation was delivered by Anna Golec-Mastroianni, president of the Polish Italian Business Council and Consul General of Poland in Milan (2022–2024). Her contribution focused on Polish–Italian academic cooperation, reviewing existing achievements and discussing future opportunities for strengthening educational and research partnerships between institutions in both countries.

Prof. Damiano Palano, director of ASERI, introduced the institution and presented its academic and research activities. He emphasized the value of interdisciplinary approaches to the study of contemporary international challenges and outlined potential areas of cooperation between ASERI and KUL.

In the following presentation, prof. Paolo Maggiolini addressed the topic “Faith, Diplomacy, and Power: Italy’s Perspective on Religious Engagement in the Contemporary Middle East.” His analysis focused on the role of religion in diplomatic processes and its influence on political developments and regional security in the Middle East.

Prof. Riccardo Redaelli presented a study of the Gulf War and its broader regional consequences. His presentation examined the main actors involved in the conflict, their strategic expectations, and the perceptions of threats shaping regional security dynamics.

Dr. Giorgia Perletta discussed the European Union’s role in addressing the Iranian nuclear issue. She traced the evolution of European diplomatic engagement from the E3 initiative through the P5+1 negotiations to the challenges faced in preserving the JCPOA following the withdrawal of the United States in 2018.

Prof. Kamil Zajączkowski analyzed Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions and operations as instruments of European Union crisis management. He highlighted their significance in conflict prevention, stabilization efforts, and post-conflict reconstruction.

Prof. Urszula Soler presented a paper on disinformation and digital diplomacy in the era of Society 5.0. Her presentation focused on the challenges posed by digital technologies, social media, and information manipulation for contemporary conflict resolution and peacebuilding efforts.

The final presentation was delivered by Michał Wójcik, who examined citizen diplomacy as an instrument supporting the state in conflict prevention. He discussed its functions, mechanisms, and limitations while emphasizing the growing importance of civil society engagement in fostering dialogue and peace.

Following the expert session, participants engaged in a roundtable discussion devoted to the challenges facing contemporary diplomacy, the effectiveness of various conflict-resolution mechanisms, and prospects for future research cooperation. Particular attention was given to preparations for the international conference in Milan and the planned post-conference publication to be issued by Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore.

The seminar provided a valuable platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences among scholars representing diverse academic backgrounds. It contributed to the development of a preliminary research framework concerning the role of diplomacy in conflict resolution and laid the foundations for continued academic cooperation between Polish and Italian partner institutions.

Invitation to the seminar “Role of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution”

Join us for the seminar “Role of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution,” organized by the Center for the Study of Diplomacy at KUL in cooperation with the ASERI – Graduate School of Economics and International Relations.

The event will focus on the role of diplomacy in addressing regional and global conflicts, bringing together researchers and experts from Poland and abroad to exchange knowledge and insights.

June 11, 2026
9:00
The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (C-220)

We look forward to seeing you there!

Open Diplomacy – discussion meeting with professor Arkady Rzegocki

For open diplomacy to be effective, it should engage all of a country’s resources, including cultural institutions, academic communities, civil society organizations, and citizens themselves. Its purpose is to actively advance national priorities, both at the regional level and in strengthening the country’s international image.

On 1 June, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) hosted a discussion meeting with Professor Arkady Rzegocki, former Head of the Polish Foreign Service and former Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the United Kingdom and Ireland. The event was devoted to his latest book “Open Diplomacy: How to Effectively Advance the National Interest”.

We would like to thank everyone who joined us for the discussion, and extend our sincere gratitude to Professor Rzegocki for an inspiring and thought-provoking conversation.

Second session of the Postgraduate Programme “Diplomacy and Foreign Service” at KUL

From 29 to 31 May 2026, the John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin hosted the Second Meeting of the Postgraduate Programme “Diplomacy and Foreign Service”, organized by the KUL Center for the Study of Diplomacy.

Participants attended lectures and workshops led by experienced diplomats and experts in international relations.

Among the guest speakers were:

Dominik Borek, Director of the Tourism Department at the Ministry of Sport and Tourism,

ambassador Piotr Wilczek, former ambassador of Poland to the United States and the United Kingdom,

Michał Banasiak from the Polish Institute of Sports Diplomacy, and

ambassador Arkady Rzegocki, former ambassador of Poland to the United Kingdom.

The programme focused on

tourism and sports diplomacy,

digital diplomacy, historical and cultural diplomacy, as well as

public and open diplomacy.

The event provided participants with practical insights into contemporary foreign policy tools, the impact of new technologies on diplomacy, and the role of history, culture and sport in shaping a country’s international position.

Invitation to a discussion meeting with professor Arkady Rzegocki

The Center for the Study of Diplomacy KUL invites you to an open discussion meeting with Professor Arkady Rzegocki devoted to his latest book, Open Diplomacy: How to Effectively Advance the National Interest.

The meeting will take place on 1 June at 11:00 a.m. in the Interfaculty Library of KUL (Room C-102).

We warmly encourage everyone interested in international politics, diplomacy, and public affairs to join us and take an active part in the discussion.

In his latest book, Professor Rzegocki explores the challenges of contemporary diplomacy and the effective pursuit of national interests in a rapidly changing world.

What is open diplomacy? What role can citizens, academic communities, think tanks, civil society organizations, and the media play in shaping foreign policy? Has effective diplomacy today expanded beyond the work of embassies and state institutions? During the meeting, we will discuss the modern understanding of the national interest, the building of a country’s international standing, and the importance of cooperation between diplomacy and civil society.

Professor Arkady Rzegocki is a Polish political scientist, habilitated doctor in the humanities, and Professor at the Jagiellonian University.

His academic research focuses primarily on Polish and British political thought, as well as the concept of the national interest.

Throughout his career, he has successfully combined academic work with diplomatic service. He served as Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the United Kingdom from 2016 to 2021 and as Ambassador to Ireland from 2023 to 2024. Between 2021 and 2023, he also held the office of Head of the Polish Foreign Service at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

KUL Becomes a Strategic Partner of the Three Seas Congress

“The Soft Power of the Three Seas: Science and Diplomacy in Shaping the Future of the Region” was the theme of a panel organized by the Center for the Study of Diplomacy KUL during the Scientific Forum of the 6th Local Government Three Seas Congress. The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) served as a strategic academic partner of the Congress, contributing to four expert panel discussions. An equally significant highlight of the event was the expansion of the Three Seas Universities Network, an initiative founded and coordinated by KUL.

Held in Lublin on 27-28 May 2026, the Three Seas Congress brought together representatives of regional and local governments, business leaders, academic institutions, strategic partners, and associated partners from Central and Eastern Europe to strengthen international cooperation across the region.

The Scientific Forum – A Key Element of the Three Seas Congress

As a strategic academic partner of the Congress, KUL was responsible for organizing the first day of the Scientific Forum – a platform for dialogue among scholars, experts, and practitioners on scientific diplomacy, healthcare, innovation, and international cooperation. The Forum provided an opportunity to discuss academic collaboration and the development of long-term partnerships among universities across the Three Seas region.

The Scientific Forum featured four panel discussions.

A panel bringing together university rectors and Poland’s Minister of Science and Higher Education explored the role of Three Seas universities in building a shared research community. The discussion was moderated by Professor Beata Piskorska, Vice-Rector for Students and Internationalization at KUL. Healthcare issues were addressed during the panel “Shared Responsibility for Health in the Three Seas Region,” moderated by Professor Łukasz Szarpak of the KUL Medical College. Another international panel focused on cooperation among Three Seas universities in advancing the quality of education and research and was chaired by Professor Ewa Domagała-Zyśk, Vice-Rector for Education at KUL.

The Center for the Study of Diplomacy KUL also organized the diplomatic panel.

“We invited ambassadors from the Three Seas Initiative countries to discuss how diplomacy and diplomatic institutions can contribute to strengthening the scientific and research potential of our countries and universities,” explained Professor Beata Piskorska, Vice-Rector at KUL and founder and head of the Center for the Study of Diplomacy KUL.

The panel “The Soft Power of the Three Seas: Science and Diplomacy in Shaping the Future of the Region” was moderated by Dr Monika Michaliszyn, former Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Latvia. The discussion featured Tomislav Vidošević, Ambassador of Croatia to Poland, Raimonds Jansons, Ambassador of Latvia to Poland, and Veljko Milonjić, Ambassador of Montenegro to Poland.

“Soft power is one of the essential instruments for building strength and resilience in our region,” said Dr Monika Michaliszyn. Referring to the words of Pope John Paul II, she recalled his vision of Europe “breathing with both lungs” – East and West – and emphasized his belief that Central and Eastern Europe could contribute its unique experience of solidarity, freedom, and resilience to the wider European community.

The panelists reflected on whether the Three Seas region possesses a distinct identity and cultural vision that it can offer the world.

“This region is incredibly attractive. It is home to more than 120 million people,” noted Ambassador Tomislav Vidošević, emphasizing the shared history and cultural heritage that unite the countries of the region. “We understand one another remarkably well,” he added.

Ambassador Raimonds Jansons highlighted the importance of the region’s soft power.

“Soft power is based on attraction, reputation, and the instruments we possess – culture, education, science, and language. But in our region, what makes it truly unique is that these elements are not only tools of attraction or branding; they are also instruments of strategic resilience.”

Ambassador Veljko Milonjić stressed the importance of common values and shared objectives. “Our goals are a stronger Europe and a stronger Three Seas Initiative.”

The Three Seas Universities Network Continues to Grow

Universities from Albania, Türkiye, and Spain officially joined the Three Seas Universities Network, an initiative conceived, established, and coordinated by The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin. The Network now brings together 22 universities, united by a commitment to academic cooperation, knowledge exchange, and the development of joint research and educational projects.

“Europe’s strength and security depend not only on strong armed forces and a dynamic economy, but above all on science,” emphasized Rev. Prof. Mirosław Kalinowski, Rector of KUL. “Research and higher education influence every other sector of society. For Europe’s security, cooperation among universities, the exchange of experience, and joint research are essential. I am delighted that we are expanding the community of universities engaged in the Three Seas Universities Network.”

The Three Seas Universities Network, developed by KUL since 2023, brings together universities from countries surrounding the Baltic, Black, and Adriatic Seas. Prior to the latest expansion, the Network included 19 universities from Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine, Hungary, Georgia, the Czech Republic, and Greece.

On 27 May, three additional institutions joined the Network: Mardin Artuklu University (Türkiye), Aleksandër Xhuvani University in Elbasan (Albania), Universidad CEU Cardenal Herrera (Spain).

A recording of the Scientific Forum held during the 6th Local Government Three Seas Congress is available on the KUL YouTube channel.

Invitation to an Open Lecture by Professor Kennan Ferguson

On Thursday, 28 May, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) will host Professor Kennan Ferguson from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, who will deliver an open lecture entitled “Affect Center: Understanding Us (and Other) Foreign Policy.” The event is part of the Discourses on the World series organized by the Center for the Study of Diplomacy KUL.

Professor Kennan Ferguson is a political theorist at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He is the author of Cookbook Politics (University of Pennsylvania Press). His previous publications include All in the Family: Community and Incommensurability (Duke University Press) and The Politics of Judgment (Lexington Books), as well as the co-edited volume After Capitalism (Rutgers University Press), published with Patrice Petro. He is also currently co-editing the forthcoming book The Big No (University of Minnesota Press).

Professor Ferguson previously served as co-editor of the journal Theory & Event (2015-2020) and currently co-edits the Modernity and Political Thought book series. Earlier in his career, he co-edited the eight-volume Blackwell Encyclopedia of Political Thought. Since 2016, he has been a member of the Faculty Committee of the University of Wisconsin Press. Between 2015 and 2017, he served as Director of the Center for 21st Century Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He is currently a Fulbright Scholar at Charles University in Prague.

We warmly invite everyone interested to join us on 28 May at 11:00 a.m. in Room C-618.

Author: Marta Ćwik-Hetman