Exploring cooperation with Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten

This fall, Clingendael Academy had the pleasure of hosting an engaging and dynamic online training programme for government officers from Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten working on external policy and regional- and Kingdom wide cooperation. Over the course of two weeks, participants explored key themes in diplomacy, enhanced their professional skills, and collaborated to strengthen regional cooperation within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

A key highlight of the programme was the scenario-building exercise, where participants worked together to envision the future of the Kingdom’s external policy in 2034. This forward-looking activity encouraged participants to apply creative, strategic, and analytical thinking while deepening their understanding of the unique priorities and roles of each island. The exercise fostered a strong sense of collaboration, culminating in thought-provoking presentations that underscored the importance of regional dialogue.

Participants also developed their negotiation and influencing skills through interactive workshops designed to boost their confidence and effectiveness in handling complex policy discussions. These sessions combined theory with practice, equipping participants with the tools needed to approach diplomatic challenges with clarity and assurance.

Beyond the workshops, the programme provided valuable networking opportunities. Participants engaged in meaningful discussions with policy experts from the Netherlands and their colleagues across the islands, laying the foundation for stronger professional connections and inter-island cooperation.

Clingendael Academy is proud to have delivered this comprehensive and enriching programme, which combined theoretical insights, practical exercises, and opportunities for strategic reflection. The training aimed to be engaging and impactful, and participants expressed their appreciation for the knowledge and skills they gained to address shared challenges and reinforce regional ties. We look forward to seeing how this talented group of civil servants continues to contribute to the future of diplomacy within the Kingdom and beyond.