18 January 2022, Geneva, Switzerland – With the creation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, African countries established institutions, designed policies, and launched initiatives to deepen their political and economic integration in increasingly salient areas to their continent’s development.

Strengthening the relationship with their counterpart across the Mediterranean and tackling issues of common concerns continues to be a priority between the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU). This overarching collaboration calls for a fostered dialogue between the two regional organizations to forge a new, shared partnership away from the outdated “benefactor/beneficiary” dynamic.

Following the request of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and thanks to their generous support, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Luiss School of Government partnered to develop the unique Executive Master in Global Public Diplomacy and Sustainable Development designed to admit up to 30 highly skilled African diplomats.

In its 2020 Strategy “A Partnership with Africa”, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation detailed scenarios of cooperation between Italy and African states, and the role of Italy in contributing to the further development and well-being of African societies.

This unique programme is divided into three mandatory phases: 

• Phase 1: Online (end of February - end of June 2022);
• Phase 2: Intensive in-Presence School of Government – Luiss Guido Carli Rome (July 2022);
• Phase 3: Final Project Work (August - October 2022).

Through its hybrid combination of online and in-person modules, the Executive Master in Global Public Diplomacy and Sustainable Development will provide 30 selected African diplomats with a diverse set of unique skills and attributes. This includes acquiring advanced knowledge of the European Union institutions and policies, demonstrating proficiency in instruments associated with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and appreciating key issues and concepts of international relations with a specific focus on African dimensions of contemporary challenges.

For more information, kindly contact diplomacy@unitar.org.