Third edition Climate Diplomacy Training

Clingendael Academy hosted the third edition of Climate Diplomacy training for mid-career diplomats from Small Island Developing States and other coastal nations in Central America and the Caribbean.

The intensive five-day online programme, broadcasted live from the Clingendael Studios, aimed at providing diplomats with the necessary thematic knowledge and diplomatic tools to navigate the complex terrain of international climate diplomacy. The course combined an extensive e-learning that provided deep insights into international agreements such as the 2015 Paris Agreement with live expert sessions on key policy areas. These sessions were complemented with interactive workshops focused on negotiation skills and stakeholder analysis, equipping diplomats with practical skills to navigate both complex climate policy discussions as well as international climate negotiations. The training blended theory with hands-on exercises, preparing participants to tackle national and international climate challenges effectively.

"This was an excellent course. It greatly enhanced my skills and knowledge on climate diplomacy, and I would gladly recommend this course to other professionals, especially those from Small Island Developing States."

Climate adaptation and finance as key themes

Due to the region’s vulnerability to climate change as well as the key role the SIDS have played in the recent negotiations on climate finance, the topics of adaptation and climate finance were selected as key themes that reoccurred throughout the programme. Besides the technical deep dive during expert lectures, participants worked throughout the training on a policy goal related to climate adaptation, to which they applied the stakeholder tools provided in the workshop. On the final day of the programme, participants took part in a COP negotiation simulation where they practised their negotiation skills on these themes, with a case that was especially designed for this training.

This Clingendael Academy programme fosters strategic thinking and collaboration. As climate change continues to threaten vulnerable nations, initiatives like this help build a skilled diplomatic corps capable of securing meaningful climate cooperation.

Participants expressed appreciation for the knowledge and skills gained, highlighting the programme’s role in strengthening regional cooperation. Clingendael Academy looks forward to seeing this talented group contribute to the future of climate diplomacy.