Admission requirements
Only students of the MSc Crisis and Security Management can take this course.
Description
This elective offers an in-depth exploration of the complexities surrounding contemporary Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) operations, a growing challenge in global security. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of FIMI, examining its historical origins, conceptual underpinnings, mechanisms, psychological impacts, and potential countermeasures.
The course begins by introducing foundational concepts and tracing the historical development of FIMI. It then examines how various state actors—such as Russia, China, and Iran—have utilised FIMI both historically and in current contexts. Attention then shifts to non-state actors and exploring how different groups employ disinformation and influence strategies. Following this, the course addresses how FIMI is viewed through several key disciplinary perspectives. The final section of the course focuses on mitigation strategies, investigating how states and institutions can effectively counter FIMI operations.
This elective is ideal for students with interests in foreign influence, disinformation, security, or strategic communications. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with analytical tools and practical skills to navigate, analyse, and respond to disinformation in an increasingly complex information environment.
Course Objectives
After completing the course the student will be able to:
Examine and contextualise contemporary trends in Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) campaigns by state and non-state actors, with reference to their historical development.
Explain key theoretical perspectives on FIMI from different sub-fields.
Critically evaluate real-world examples of disinformation campaigns, assessing their methods, impacts, and effectiveness.
Analyse and synthesise existing research on a contemporary issue related to FIMI.
Demonstrate the ability to critically assess and reflect on the quality of self-written and peer-reviewed writing about FIMI.
Timetable
On the right side of programme front page of the E-guide you will find links to the website and timetables, uSis and Brightspace.
Mode of Instruction
Each session will consist of a lecture of approximately 90 minutes. Some sessions will have two lectures on different topics. Some sessions will have tasks that allow students to apply their knowledge. There will be room in the sessions to work on the individual and group assignments.
Assessment method
Group assignment
25% of the final grade
Resit not possible
Grade can be compensated in case of a fail (< 5.50)
Individual paper
75% of the final grade
Resit is possible
Grade cannot be compensated, a 5.5 is required to pass the course
Calculation of the final grade: The final grade will be calculated using a weighted average and must be 5.5 or higher.
Reading list
A selection of books and articles, to be announced on Brightspace.
Registration
*Please note, registration for block 4 electives will be organised by the OSC in a different way from the regular course registration for semester 2. More information about this will follow in the beginning of semester 2.
Contact
Dr. Aiden Hoyle a.j.a.hoyle@fgga.leidenuniv.nl