Clingendael Academy welcomed nineteen junior diplomats from the Latin-American and Caribbean region for a three-week diplomatic training programme. The participants represented nineteen different countries which resulted in a great diversity of perspectives and enriching discussions. Some participants were from small island states, while others were from larger Latin-American and Caribbean states. 

The aim of this training was to deepen the participants’ understanding of international and regional issues, to sharpen their diplomatic skills in order to operate more effectively in an international diplomatic environment, and to develop the participants' regional and international networks. 

The course consisted of a combination of substantive lectures, skills workshops and working visits. Think of, for example, an interview carousel in which participants could interview human rights experts and workshops in negotiation skills and intercultural communication. Working visits were conducted to several relevant institutions, such as the European institutions in Brussels, Deltares, the International Court of Justice, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We ended the programme with a festive group dinner in the centre of The Hague.

At the end of the programme, some of the participants reflected:

“The course exceeded my expectations. The skills I've learnt and the friendships that I have developed I will carry with me for years to come”

“I loved the interactive teaching style as well as the practical sessions.”

“The course was comprehensive and well-constructed whereby it focused on issues and realities of the region. It was a fun learning environment. The coordinators were very attentive, accommodating and pleasant.”

It was an honour to work with such a diverse and enthusiastic group of junior diplomats. We wish them all the best in their diplomatic careers and look forward to welcoming them or their colleagues back to the Clingendael Institute for other training programmes.