On May 6, the Department of Political Science and International Affairs (PSIA) welcomed His Excellency Mr. Antoine Hraiki, Diplomatic Consul at the Lebanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, as part of its annual ‘Beyond the Mic' event series.

Mr. Hraiki, a distinguished alumnus of the PSIA Department (B.A. 2016 and M.A., Class of 2024), has served in several key diplomatic posts, including in London, New York, and Brussels. During his talk, he shared valuable insights with students on the evolving demands of diplomacy in the 21st century.

Emphasizing the importance of operational agility, negotiation skills, and a commitment to humanitarian values, Mr. Hraiki encouraged aspiring diplomats to cultivate both formal and informal channels of communication. “Effective diplomacy today requires not just knowledge, but also empathy, adaptability, and a deep sense of public service,” he stated.

His address marked the third and final event of the Spring 2025 Beyond the Mic' series, themed "Shifting Sands of 21st Century Politics." This year’s focus explored the roots of political instability and uncertainty, aiming to broaden the understanding of agents of change in global politics. The series offered students, faculty, and the broader University of Balamand community a platform to reflect on diplomacy’s vital role, particularly within the Lebanese context.









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