The new academic year at the ISPD is starting and we are pleased to announce the upcoming beginning of our first module programme: Protocol Basics.Participants of this course will be given the opportunity to master the main tools of modern protocol. In the first stage, the main elements of protocol will be introduced including a comparison between protocol, etiquette and ceremonial. This is then followed by a description of protocol in public institutions. The final stage focuses on the appliance of protocol in the organisation of events such as an official visit, a conference or banquets.This course has been specifically designed for those who wish to be introduced to the increasingly important field of protocol. It will be of particular interest to current embassy personnel, European Union officials, university students in the fields of politics, international relations and communication/public relations, business people, journalists, event organisers and public relations representatives.This programme can be followed in 3 different modes of study:- In-House Mode (9 Oct - 5 Dec 2015) - Classes take place on Fridays 4.45 pm - 8.00 pm and Saturdays 10.00 am - 1.15 pm.- Intensive Mode (19 - 22 October 2015) - Classes take place from Monday to Thursday, 9.30 am to 5.15 pm.- Online Mode (9 Oct - 5 Dec 2015) - Classes (video recordings, presentations) are released on a weekly basis.Programme:Introduction to Protocol and DiplomacyPrecedence and its CriteriaSymbolism and the World of FlagsInvitations and GiftsProtocol at the Table- Official EventsOrganisation of Press ConferencesOrganisation of Official VisitsThe Role of the Protocol OfficerOrganisation of CeremoniesOrganisation of Summits and Conferences Among the experts for this module:H.E. Luis Ritto, former EU Ambassador to the Holy See, Malta and FAOH.E. Jacques de Baenst, former Chief of Protocol of the European CommissionThomas Sladko, Deputy Chief of Protocol of the Federal Chancellery of AustriaJacques de Cartier d'Yves, former Chief of Protocol of the Belgian Ministry of DefenseKole Gjeloshaj, Head of Protocol at the International University Sports Federationand many others.