Core Diplomatic Training (CDT) lies at the core of UNITAR’s mandate, established in 1965 to strengthen multilateral diplomacy through practical, high-impact learning. As UNITAR’s longest-standing training portfolio, CDT has evolved from foundational courses for diplomats from newly independent UN Member States into comprehensive programmes serving a broad spectrum of stakeholders – including diplomats, government officials, international civil servants, and representatives from civil society and the private sector 

UNITAR’s Executive Diploma in Diplomatic Practice is the flagship programme under the Core Diplomatic Training. Delivered annually in Geneva over eight months, the diploma comprises a comprehensive series of 8 practice-oriented workshops tailored for diplomats and decision-makers working in multilateral environments. Rooted in the ethos of “on the UN, for the UN, by the UN,” the Diploma equips participants with advanced diplomatic skills, deepens their understanding of multilateral diplomacy, and facilitates the expansion of their global professional networks.  

The 8 Core Diplomatic Training courses are delivered in person through highly interactive, executive-style trainings. Each workshop lasts two days and is held in English.

Dates and Registration pages for the next Edition of CDT will be published soon. Please email diplomacy@unitar.org in the meantime, in case you have any questions. 

FEEDBACK FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS OF THE EXECUTIVE DIPLOMA

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LIST OF WORKSHOPS

UNITAR’S EXECUTIVE DIPLOMA IN DIPLOMATIC PRACTICE (GENEVA, SWITZERLAND)

  • Each year, from November to August, UNITAR delivers the Executive Diploma in Diplomatic Practice. The Executive Diploma is awarded with the completion of a minimum of 6 out of the 8 Core Diplomatic Training activities and the submission of a final research paper. In exceptional cases, the programme can also be completed by attending 6 face-to-face workshops and 2 online courses.
  • The workshops are aimed at enhancing participants’ understanding of the United Nations System, its organs and procedures, as well as strengthening key diplomatic skills. They are also designed to facilitate efficient participation in conferences and negotiations, equipping participants to navigate the evolving landscape of multilateralism and lead effectively on the global stage.
  • Candidates participating in the Executive Diploma will have the possibility to attend all 8 trainings during the November – June period each year.
  • Earning an Executive Diploma in Diplomatic Practice will not only improve career opportunities, but also expand participants' global networks. The programme attracts a diverse group of professionals, bringing a wide range of skills and expertise.

WHY ARE UNITAR’S CDT COURSES UNIQUE?

  • Unmatched access to expertise: Few programmes offer the same level of direct engagement with seasoned United Nations staff, high-level diplomats, and facilitators with insight into multilateral diplomacy.
  • Multilateral, peer-driven learning: UNITAR’s training methodology emphasizes peer-to-peer learning and meaningful exchange among a diverse global community of professionals, including diplomats, government officials, senior professionals, and subject-matter experts.
  • Flexible for demanding schedules: UNITAR courses are highly accessible. They are held at United Nations locations and fitted, where possible, into the official UN calendar. For added flexibility, participants may complete the course part-time over 2 years.

WHAT IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE?

Drawing on UNITAR’s experience of training leaders for 60 years, Core Diplomatic Training provides participants with a practical understanding of diplomatic know-how. It equips candidates with the skills and knowledge they need to perform outstandingly and deliver the best results possible.

Eligible participants may be mid to senior level diplomats and other government officials, representatives or experts working in the UN System. University students, academics, staff of international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and professionals from private sector companies are also welcome to apply.

WHERE IS CDT BEING IMPLEMENTED?

United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, New York and Vienna as well as at UN Offices in the host cities of UN regional economic commissions (Addis Ababa, Bangkok, Beirut, Nairobi, Rome, Santiago de Chile). 

ARE THERE ANY FELLOWSHIPS FOR CDT COURSES?

Each workshop has a price of 1000 USD per participant. Fees for the whole Executive Diploma in Diplomatic Practice have the following prices (according to the World Bank Atlas Method):

  •  High-Income Countries: 8,000 USD
  • Middle-Income Countries: 5,000 USD
  • Low-Income Countries: 3,000 USD 

Some Core Diplomatic Training workshops can be attended free of charge by a limited number of Geneva-based diplomats, provided enough funding is available.

Mary Dinah
Mary Dinah

The Executive Diploma is an incredible melting pot of notable speakers, experienced diplomats and other enthusiasts looking to learn and contribute to enlightening discussions on global diplomatic leadership.

Mary Dinah, Chief Executive Officer, M.A.D. Hospitality

Williemena P. Appleton
Williemena P. Appleton

The workshops have given me practical knowledge about Multilateral Dipomacy and Negotiations, as well as enhanced my confidence in my field of work!

Williemena P. Appleton, Diplomat, Liberian Embassy in Berlin

I have had the pleasure to lead the Leadership and Public Speaking workshops for the Executive Diploma in Diplomatic Practice since its inception back in 2015. The groups have been incredibly diverse in background and experience levels, but they have always been very active and engaging in debate. I wholeheartedly recommend the Executive Diploma for anyone who would like to learn more about the fascinating and complex world of diplomacy and international affairs amongst peers.

Jérôme L’Host, Trainer in Leadership and Public Speaking

CONTACT US

Email: diplomacy@unitar.org / Telephone: +41 22 917 88 10

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