Clingendael trains UN Experts in mediation support

Clingendael Academy successfully delivered a five-day training course in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aimed at strengthening the mediation support capacities of United Nations staff. 

From 10 to 14 March 2025, 20 participants gathered in The Hague for the course Enhancing Mediation: How to Support Mediation Processes More Effectively. Participants included professionals from UNDP, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), the United Nations Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (UN DPPA), the United Nations Office of the Special Envoy, and Peace and Development Advisors (PDAs).

The training focused on those supporting (insider) mediators from a third-party perspective. It combined negotiation and mediation skills with practical insights into the organisational and individual challenges of offering effective support. The course was tailored to experienced UN staff, providing tools and knowledge to help set up and guide mediation initiatives in conflict-affected settings.

Clingendael Academy shared its long-standing expertise and offered practical tools to the training, including its Strategic Choice Framework. This helps mediation actors structure decisions around process design and engagement strategies.

The programme also offered a unique chance for participants to reflect, learn, and connect across UN agencies in a neutral space.

As the demand for skilled mediation professionals grows, we hope to welcome these practitioners back to Clingendael and continue building on the knowledge and connections forged during this week. For more information, please contact Gabriëlla Vogelaar or Amanda Klemann.