This LSE MA module is for students who have been, or intend to become, active in driving change, whether as members of civil society organizations, in government, in aid donors or in the private sector. They will develop their understanding of intentional influencing episodes whilst working towards the design of their own influencing strategies using power analysis, systems thinking and other tools used in the wider influencing sector.
Designed for senior leaders on United Nations Country and Humanitarian Country Teams, and the NGOs they interact with, this course sharpens their leadership and influencing skills. It focuses on the ways of thinking and tools that enable them to develop effective influencing strategies that combine public and private techniques in a blend of risk assessment, humanitarian diplomacy, media engagement, and agile responses to unforeseen events. Throughout, space is created for leaders to share insights, discuss work challenges, role play situations and simulate crises.
The Influencing and Political Acumen Programme is designed to enhance the strategic thinking and advocacy skills of professionals working in civil society organisations in the Middle East and North Africa. Combining online and in-person learning, the programme covers essential influencing strategies, contextual civil society issues, and practical skill-building. Participants receive mentoring from experts and develop influencing proposals tailored to their organisations' goals. Selected proposals may qualify for additional grant funding, enabling participants to turn their strategies into actionable projects that advocate for meaningful social change.
Tom and Duncan contribute a two day workshop focussed on systems thinking, power analysis and research impact. Participants discuss and plan how to reach key stakeholders with their research.