Advancing peacebuilding: 6th Annual global training of trainers for insider mediators

From 12–23 May 2025, Clingendael Academy, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), hosted its annual Training of Trainers (ToT) programme for insider mediators at the Clingendael Institute in the Hague. This initiative equips and empowers mediators with the skills to train others in conflict-affected communities, boosting local mediation capacity.

Insider mediators are deeply connected to the conflicts they help resolve. While their proximity makes them uniquely positioned to identify opportunities, it also presents distinct challenges. Clingendael’s ToT programme supports these mediators in becoming effective trainers, thereby amplifying their impact on peacebuilding.

The two-week training began with a focus on strengthening participants’ negotiation and mediation skills, laying a solid foundation in key concepts and processes. Focus and discussion were also placed around key themes, such as intercultural communication and disinformation in conflict contexts. In the second week, the emphasis shifted to developing participants’ didactical skills, particularly in adult learning and training design. Through interactive sessions, participants explored effective strategies to design, develop, and deliver practitioner-focused workshops within their own working contexts.

Many participants highlighted the value of exchanging insights with fellow mediators and trainers and noted that they felt empowered at the end of the training. 

One participant shared:

“The training deepened my understanding of the key competencies and qualities of an effective mediator and introduced practical tools for use in mediation. I also gained insights into creating safe, confidential spaces, managing power dynamics, addressing emotions, and learned how to design trainings aligned with clear learning goals.”

Clingendael remains committed to supporting insider mediators by providing practical skills development, enhancing their capacity as trainers, and fostering networks that promote and contribute to lasting peace.