Objectives: The objective of this training is to increase the understanding of aid workers about humanitarian diplomacy and diplomatic practice, as well as to strengthen their capacity to cooperate effectively with diplomats (representatives of a country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, either working at the Ministry or at a representation abroad (such as an Embassy)) or staff such as attaché’s or policy officers.

Programme Description: The interface between the humanitarian sector and the diplomatic world is continuously growing. Closer collaboration on dossiers such as refugee support, climate change and humanitarian aid would be beneficial for both aid workers and those working in diplomacy such as diplomats, attaché’s and policy officers.

But what exactly is humanitarian diplomacy and how do you “do” humanitarian diplomacy? Who are the relevant actors and what are their interests? What might be the challenges in such cooperation and how would you deal with those? At the Clingendael Institute, we are in the unique position to have worked with the previously mentioned officials who are working in diplomacy and humanitarians for many years.

This course will provide a deep dive into the interconnections of the humanitarian sector with diplomacy. If you work with diplomat, attaché’s or policy officers on topics such as advocacy, humanitarian policy issues, funding and donor strategies, then this course will provide you with a stronger foundation for your humanitarian diplomacy efforts.

This online training is scheduled for 2 – 3 and 7 – 8 – 9 October 2024 (5 days). Deadline to apply is Sunday 25 August, 23:59PM CEST/UTC+2.

This online course is fully funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and will be conducted in English.

Profile of participants:

• You are a humanitarian aid worker, working for a local, national or international humanitarian organisation;
• At least one component of your job entails engaging with diplomats (representatives of a country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, either working at the Ministry or at a representation abroad (such as an Embassy)) or staff such as attaché’s or policy officers;
• You engage with diplomats, attaché’s or policy officers on topics such as advocacy, humanitarian policy issues, funding and donor strategies;
• You interact with the mentioned officials at least on a monthly basis;
• You have full working proficiency in English;
• Aid workers from local NGOs and women are especially encouraged to apply.

Dates and build-up of the course: This online training is scheduled for 2 -3 and 7 – 8 – 9 October (5 days). Deadline to apply is Sunday 25 August, 23:59PM CEST/UTC+2. The online sessions take place daily over Zoom approximately between 10:00 and 16:00 o’clock CET (UTC+2). Participants may be asked to conduct self-paced modules during the training in their own time. We make sure the course is interactive and includes sufficient breaks. Participants will receive a certificate after full attendance of the course.