In April, government officials from Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten participated in a comprehensive digital training program on external policy, organized and developed by Clingendael Academy. Over two weeks, participants explored key themes in diplomacy, specifically tailored to the Caribbean region within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The training aimed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the officials, focusing on key areas such as foreign policy, security, sustainability, and multilateral cooperation. One of the primary objectives was to create a platform where government officials from different Caribbean islands could share their experiences and reflections on handling foreign policy matters within the Kingdom.
The program was structured to first have participants work on an individual assignment that addressed overarching themes in external policy. Following this, they came together to discuss their findings and reflections with colleagues from other islands, building on the conclusions during meetings with the Foreign Relations Offices of the participating islands. The session also included a networking opportunity with representatives from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, allowing for collective reflection and identifying shared priorities for future collaboration.
A key aspect of the training was the focus on the European Union’s relationship with the Caribbean region. Participants attended an expert lecture on European Union Law and the EU Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs), followed by an insightful session with Samira Rafaela, former Member of the European Parliament. Rafaela shared her practical experience working within the EU and its relationship with the OCTs, as well as potential areas for cooperation between the EU and the Caribbean part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The program also addressed practical skills, including effective influencing, intercultural communication, negotiation, and scenario planning, further enhancing the diplomats’ expertise.
The Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten government officials’ active participation, insights, and constructive feedback throughout the program were invaluable, and Clingendael Academy looks forward to supporting their continued diplomatic work.
