On March 2024, Southern African and Regional Organisations’ diplomats participated in a training programme at the Clingendael Institute. The three week training was aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of the diplomats in support of the continuous promotion of peace, prosperity, and stability in the Southern African region, as well as to explore further opportunities for regional cooperation. 

The participants dived into various themes related to key policy priorities in the region, while sharpening skills in intercultural communication, policy reporting, and negotiations. Topics such as multilateralism, African Union – European Union relations, cyber governance, international protocol were covered. Knowledge and expertise were exchanged through informative lectures, practical skills sessions, and simulations. These multi-technique approaches were highly appreciated by the participants, who described the overall programme as beneficial, inspiring, and shifting their mind-set.

Participants gained direct insight into the processes and policies of various institutions like the European Union External Action Service, the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, and the United Nations Development Programme in Brussels. The group also visited the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the International Criminal Court and the Global Center of Adaptation. The participants also enjoyed a wonderful bus tour of the Hague and a boat tour of the port of Rotterdam. 

Following this training, the Clingendael Academy is happy to have contributed to fostering a stronger bond between the participants and the Netherlands. We wish the diplomats immense success for their future and hope they will stay in touch with the Clingendael network.