Diplomats in training at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy visited Clingendael Academy for a three day diplomatic training program. Ron Ton, Director of Clingendael Academy, presented a key note address on trends in diplomacy. He highlighted new developments and changes in the diplomatic profession. Important key elements mentioned were the hybrid character of diplomacy at a nexus of traditional intergovernmental diplomacy and modern networking diplomacy. He also referred to:

• the changing dynamics among ministries in international policy development,
• the growing accountability of diplomatic work,
• the growing complexity of the international diplomatic agenda,
• the economisation of diplomacy,
• the changing balance between bilateral and multilateral diplomacy.

Diplomacy, sustainability and innovation

During the three-day visit, Clingendael provided the diplomats with workshops in various diplomatic skills on crisis communication, intercultural communication and public speaking, during which participants had to actively practice in simulations. Sustainability and innovation were topics discussed during a panel discussion was organised with representatives of Shell, TNO and YES!Delft.

 The Dutch Political landscape

Informative visits to important Dutch institutions were organised to inform the participants about the Dutch political landscape and governmental procedures. They were welcomed by the President of the Dutch Senate, Ms. Ankie Broekers-Knol, and by the Head of the Gulf department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, Mr. Jan Versteeg, grand master at the King’s palace, provided them with insights into the history, protocol and etiquette at the Royal palace.

On the last day we organised a cultural program, during which the group had the chance to visit the famous Tulip Garden “Keukenhof”, to see the Dutch Masters in the Rijksmuseum, and to explore the city of Amsterdam. The tour was ended with a dinner canal cruise through the capital’s historic city center.