Indonesian mid-career diplomats welcomed back
In September, Clingendael Academy was delighted to once again welcome a group of Indonesian mid-career diplomats to The Hague. Among the participants were also some familiar faces, who had previously joined the Academy as junior diplomats, reflecting the continuity and strength of the partnership between the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Clingendael Academy.
The training programme covered a broad range of timely topics, carefully tailored to Indonesia’s current priorities and the wider international context. Clingendael’s in-house experts, together with external guest speakers, provided insights into pressing issues such as climate diplomacy and EU-ASEAN relations. In addition, the programme emphasised the development of practical diplomatic skills, with dedicated sessions on crisis communication, negotiation, and effective influencing.
To complement the study sessions, the programme also included social activities and working visits that enriched the participants’ experience. Highlights included a visit to the Mauritshuis to admire The Girl with a Pearl Earring, an exchange with experts at Deltares to learn about water management projects in Indonesia and introductions to the work of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Criminal Court (ICC). These activities underscored not only the practical application of the training but also the warm and long-standing ties between Indonesia and the Netherlands.
The programme concluded on a festive note, with both participants and trainers reflecting on two weeks of dynamic discussions, knowledge exchange, and mutual inspiration. Clingendael Academy looks forward to continuing this fruitful cooperation and to welcoming this group again in the future - perhaps next time as senior diplomats.
