Learning together: 15 years of trainings with the Middle East and North Africa Region
Global partnerships, local impact
'The coordinators are really very professional while not losing their human touch. I think they are the main reason the course is as successful as it is and they really ensure that all the participants remain comfortable'
– participant Diplomatic Programme for Junior Diplomats 2025
Since 1983, Clingendael has been a hub for knowledge exchange and the building of individual and organisational capacities. Participants from all over the world cross the threshold of the Clingendael Huys while the Academy's trainers join participants across the globe and online. The Academy has a long history of training activities with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. With 15 years of annual trainings in and for the MENA region approaching, we take this opportunity to look closer at this unique and fruitful partnership.
A track-record of diplomacy
In 2012, Clingendael started providing annual training programmes for junior and midcareer diplomats from the MENA region. Since, over 500 diplomats have travelled to The Hague to discuss core diplomatic skills and emerging trends in the diplomatic field, directly experiencing our unique Clingendael Training Method™.
'A great experience, [a] balanced method between theory and practice, [and an] interactive atmosphere [that] enabled us to share expertise'
-participant Diplomatic Programme for Midcareer Diplomats 2024
Future-proof diplomacy
Through fostering a positive and constructive learning environment, trainings address topics including the future of the multilateral system, the international legal systems, humanitarian diplomacy, sustainability and climate, crisis management, and economic security. Participants and speakers explore the challenges of translating these topics into practice, their limits, and how to make a tangible difference. We bring these discussions to various partners and (international) organisations in The Hague and Brussels.
'It was really refreshing to have a pragmatic honest interactive discussion'
– participant Diplomatic Programme for Midcareer Diplomats 2024
A personalised approach
Bringing together the next generations of young, midcareer, and seniors diplomats from the same region creates valuable professional relationships. As participants return to their posts, they do so as part of a global network; as Clingendael alumni.
Outside of our programmes participants often continue their exploration of the Netherlands and Dutch culture together. From cycling to Clingendael to visiting a museum, our participants forge connections that stay with them throughout their career.
Learning together
The evolution of the diplomatic playing field challenges diplomats globally to move with it. The Academy's partnerships with the diplomatic services of the MENA region are marked by emerging trends in diplomacy, such as economic and sustainable development diplomacy. The Academy also continues to build various bilateral collaborations addressing the specific needs and learning objectives of our various partners.
Our diplomatic training programme has a rich history of collaboration with the MENA region, but it is by no means the only pillar engaged with our regional partners. Clingendael's Humanitarian and Peace Negotiations Programmes also work within the MENA region. Recognising this milestone of over 15 years of collaboration, we look forward to forging even stronger connections in the future and making a real impact in the professional journeys of the diplomats we have the honour to host.
Learn more about our Diplomacy programme
