On 23 September a group of 15 South Sudanese diplomats took part in a reflection session on challenges and actions for South Sudan. The group is currently visiting the Clingendael Academy for a four-week training course on international relations. The session challenges participants to identify overarching themes and developments in the programme's lectures and skillstraining and translate those developments to their day-to-day work in Juba.

Importance of reflection

The reflection session is an increasingly important part of Clingendael training courses. During the 2 to 8 weeks foreign diplomatic groups receive training at the Clingendael Academy, they sometimes feel overwhelmed by all the new ideas, insights and skills they pick up. During special reflection sessions, they have the opportunity to discuss amongst themselves and with the tutor, what they have learned from the lectures, discussions and skillstraining in the course and how they can apply that knowledge to the challenges they face back home. 

Networks are key

Monday's session focussed on three levels: the individual level, the institutional level and the regional level. After having discussed the issues in small groups, each group prepared a presentation. One of the challenges that stuck out was the need to increase South Sudan's networks even further. The role of embassies was discussed, as well as how South Sudan can use its vast network of diaspora to spread the word about South Sudan's priorities, but also, for instance, about investment opportunities. Another topic that was discussed was the role of South Sudan in the region and its relations with neighbouring countries.

A new way of thinking

The reflection session's goal is not to solve all the challenges at hand, but to trigger discussion, reflection and the sharing of new ideas with each other. After the presentations and the fruitful discussion on Monday, all were in agreement that this diplomatic training at the Clingendael Institute shapes a new way of thinking that they will use in their daily diplomatic work. Although it is sometimes hard to put into words how the experiences gained at Clingendael will affect their work for South Sudan, it is good to reflect on the lessons learned, also with a view on sharing those lessons with their colleagues back home.