The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Russia Center for Commerce and Relations, John Aggrey, has launched a book series examining the role of young people in international relations. The book, "Generation Diplomacy: Youth Shaping International Relations," was unveiled at HSE University in Moscow on Monday, 21 September 2026. This event coincided with the anniversary of the birth of Ghana’s first President, Dr Kwame Nkrumah.
The launch event was hosted by Dr Viacheslav Ivanov, Chief Expert at the university’s Centre for Studies of Civil Society and Nonprofit Sector, who also wrote the book’s foreword. Dr Ivanov highlighted the significance of the youth in shaping the future, stating that they are not simply inheriting it but actively constructing it with innovative tools and strategies.
According to Mr Aggrey, young people are increasingly shaping diplomacy through innovation and cooperation across borders. He emphasized that the most impactful diplomacy of the future will be driven by the unity, innovation, and unwavering spirit of the youth. Mr Aggrey also delivered the keynote address at a roundtable discussion on civil society and youth participation in public diplomacy.
The book explores how young people use social media, online platforms, and emerging technologies to advocate for causes, mobilise communities, and build understanding across cultures. This launch event provided a platform for discussing the role of youth in diplomacy and their potential to drive change.
Ziona Ayorkor Holm, Head of Business and Innovations at the Ghana Russia Center for Commerce and Relations, also spoke at the event about opportunities for young people in tourism diplomacy, commerce, and women’s innovation. The event brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss the potential of youth in shaping international relations.
The launch of the book series is seen as a significant contribution to the discourse on youth diplomacy and international relations. It highlights the importance of young people in driving change and shaping the future of diplomacy. The book series is expected to generate further discussion and research on the role of youth in international relations.
The Ghana–Russia Center for Commerce and Relations is promoting youth participation in diplomacy and international relations through initiatives like the book launch and roundtable discussions. These efforts aim to empower young people to take an active role in shaping the future of diplomacy and international relations.
Key points
- The book "Generation Diplomacy: Youth Shaping International Relations" was launched at HSE University in Moscow.
- The launch event was hosted by Dr Viacheslav Ivanov and included a roundtable discussion on civil society and youth participation in public diplomacy.
- The book explores the role of young people in international relations, highlighting their use of social media and emerging technologies to drive change.
