Clingendael was honoured to welcome Thijs van der Plas, Permanent Representative of the Netherlands to NATO in Brussels and LBB-alumnus himself. He delivered the keynote speech for the opening of the 78th 'Leergang Buitenlandse Betrekkingen', our training programme on international relations. He spoke about autocracies versus democracies, addressed shifting geopolitical power relations, and shared personal experiences. Alumni from different editions joined the opening event.

A unique and intense three-month training programme

Each year, the Clingendael Academy organises the 'Leergang Buitenlandse Betrekkingen,' one of our longest-standing programmes. This year marks the 78th edition.

The LBB offers participants from various backgrounds a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge and enhance their skills for future jobs in international relations. They will be trained and challenged by Clingendael experts and top executives working for the government, political parties, universities, media, NGOs, and the private sector.

The three-month programme includes several working visits, a meeting with Spinoza Prize winner Joyeeta Gupta about climate change, and a two-day negotiation simulation.

LBB facts & figures

• The first LBB started in 1967;
• 'Famous' LBB'ers are amongst others: Kajsa Ollongren (current outgoing Minister of Defense), Sigrid Kaag (current  outgoing Minister of Finance), Jaap de Hoop Scheffer (former Minister of Foreign Affairs);
• The LBB has more than 1,600 alumni, many of whom have pursued international careers.

LBB in 2024

If you would like to stay up to date about the programme in 2024, sign up for our e-mail alert. Are you interested in other courses the Clingendael Academy offers such as international negotiations, mediation, intercultural communication or on the EU? Have a look at our training calendar.