Successful training for diplomats from Eastern Europe and the Caucasus

In the months of October and November a group of fifteen young diplomats from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine were at Clingendael for a four week diplomatic training programme. This programme for junior diplomats from Eastern Europe and the Caucasus (EEC) has been annually recurring since 2013. 

The diplomats have been invited to participate in a training programme to achieve personal growth by training various skills, stimulate cooperation amongst their respective countries and to foster relations with the Netherlands and the European Union. During the course, the participants practiced necessary skills they need as a diplomat such as presenting, debating and negotiating. They also learned about the functioning and structure of the European Union, about international law and the Hague as City of Peace and Justice, and international trade and sustainable development issues. 

What makes this training programme special is that it goes beyond just lectures and workshops on these topics but also includes various working visits to relevant institutions and organisations such as the European Commission, the European External Action Service, the Dutch Parliament, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the World Horti Centre and the International Development Law Organization. Furthermore, this training programme provided the diplomats from the participating countries with a unique opportunity to exchange thoughts and to learn from each other. To quote one participant: 

’I am very satisfied to have participated in this wonderful training programme both on a professional and personal level. I’d like to express my sincere gratitude.’ 

Clingendael Academy looks back on a fruitful four weeks. It was our pleasure to work with this group of professional, engaged and creative diplomats. Furthermore, we hope that this experience will serve as an inspiration throughout the rest of their careers.