Successful training in Hanoi on the diplomatic means of peaceful dispute settlement

In December 2025, Clingendael Academy delivered a training programme in Hanoi, Viet Nam, within the framework of international dispute settlement. The programme centred around diplomatic means of peaceful dispute settlement, particularly negotiation and mediation in the context of the marine environment.  

The overarching goal of the training was for participants to deepen their knowledge of alternative forms of dispute settlement, with a strong emphasis on negotiation and mediation. The training was primarily skills-focused, meaning participants were able to practice different types of negotiations through a series of exercises and simulations. They also assessed their own negotiation styles, and reflected on how to use these in their work practice. 

Participants also strengthened their knowledge and skills of mediation. They explored mediation as a form of dispute settlement, gained insights into the role and responsibilities of mediators, practised techniques for facilitating dialogue between parties with differing interests, and experienced the challenges of mediating negotiations, such as managing dynamics and guiding parties toward mutually acceptable solutions. 

Throughout the week, participants representing various ministries and agencies, had the opportunity to network and strengthen interagency connections and cooperation, while also having the opportunity of engaging in discussion and reflection with an expert from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam on intercultural aspects of negotiations.

The work throughout the week built up to a final simulation, where participants engaged in a facilitated multilateral negotiation acting as an alliance of hypothetical island states on issues such as hurricane recovery, fisheries and diplomatic engagement with a third country. 

The training is organised in close collaboration with the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam and is part of a 4-year cooperation between Clingendael and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam on International Law in Maritime related areas and is supported and funded by the Netherlands Embassy in Hanoi.