MIRD Gala & Reconnect 2025: The future of international relations
On 18 January 2025, the Annual Reconnect & Gala of the Advanced MSc International Relations and Diplomacy (MIRD) celebrated over 20 years of bringing together current MIRD students, alumni, and faculty members. This year’s discussions focused on the theme: 'The Future of IR: Digital innovation, climate change, and new ideas.'
Programme Director Professor Madeleine Hosli opened the evening, warmly welcoming all attendees. She then invited Dr Jarosław Kantorowicz, Deputy Programme Director, to extend his greetings and set the stage for an insightful and engaging evening.
Keynote speech: The astrophysics of international relations
The keynote address, delivered by Andrew K. Chakhoyan, Academic Director of the UvA Summer School, tackled the pressing challenges on the global stage. He introduced a thought-provoking model—“The Astrophysics of International Relations”—to explore interconnected issues such as the erosion of international norms, the bifurcation of reality through (mis)information, the accelerating technology cycle, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. His dynamic talk included stimulating questions, conceptual reflections, book recommendations, and moments of humour, captivating and inspiring the audience.
Panel discussions: addressing global challenges
The evening featured two engaging panel discussions, both moderated by board members of the International Relations Study Association (IRSA).
The first panel, ‘Drying ice: What challenges will the acceleration of climate change impose on decision-making?’, was moderated by Giovanni D’Amico. Alumni from diverse professional backgrounds shared their insights into multilateral climate action strategies, the role of non-state actors such as corporations and indigenous communities, and the significance of local contexts in shaping environmental policies. The discussion also examined climate adaptation, geopolitical contestations in the Arctic, and the hidden unintended negative consequences that some sustainable solutions might bring.
The second panel, ‘From AI to fake news: What to expect for digital governance development,’, was moderated by Elton Högklint and focused on the emerging and increasingly relevant role of artificial intelligence in military and political domains. The discussion explored digital diplomacy, moral dilemmas surrounding drones, human responsibility in decision-making automation, and the broader impact of technological advancements. Alumni from both the public and private sectors shared perspectives on the potential and dangers of AI, highlighting the crucial role of responsibility, reliability, transparency, and media literacy in maintaining democratic systems and civil liberties.
An evening of connection and celebration
Following the thought-provoking discussions, IRSA President Diego Takahashi formally closed the panels, paving the way for an evening of celebration. The gala featured a delightful dinner, drinks, and DJ music provided by alumna Sofia Tejada. Attendees took full advantage of the opportunity to reconnect and expand their professional networks, strengthening the ties between students, alumni, and faculty members.
A shared commitment
The MIRD Reconnect & Gala 2025 successfully united 200 members of the programme community, all committed to deepening their understanding of international relations and diplomacy. This shared commitment continues to inspire efforts aimed at addressing global challenges, fostering peace, and promoting justice in an increasingly interconnected world.
The two-year Advanced MSc International Relations and Diplomacy programme offers students a unique blend of academic education in international relations and political science with practical graduate education and training in international negotiation and diplomacy. Students attend a wide range of courses, develop their analytical and research skills, take on an internship, write their master’s thesis, and build network with experts in relevant fields. Upon graduation students are prepared to take on positions in international organisations, politics, and diplomacy; or for PhD research.