The College of Europe is honoured to have been selected to conduct the phase 2 of the European Diplomatic Academy Pilot Programme, following a tender procedure launched by the European External Action Service (EEAS). This follows the successful implementation of the first phase of the Pilot Programme by the College of Europe in 2022-2023. The objective of this second phase is to continue laying the basis for the establishment of a full-fledged European Diplomatic Academy to train young European diplomats and EU officials.
This year’s edition will welcome two consecutive groups of participants trained from September 2023 to June 2024. In keeping with the tender specifications, the College of Europe will implement a dedicated academic and practical training through an intensive residential programme. The training curriculum focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary to the formulation and implementation of EU external action, taking into account the requirements of the EEAS, the lessons learned from the first phase and the feedback provided by last year’s participants.
Both cohorts of diplomats will take part in a one-week study trip organised by the College of Europe in Natolin to experience first-hand the reality of diplomatic work at the EU’s Eastern frontier, including through visits to the border with Ukraine. Regular study visits to Brussels will allow the participants to complement the practical knowledge acquired in class with their daily implementation by EU and Member States diplomats. Guest lectures and exchanges with high-level guests will allow for deeper reflection on current issues.
The College formula ensures that participants live together throughout the Programme, in a challenging and highly stimulating multicultural environment in the heart of Europe, while also enjoying the social events as well as cultural and sport activities that the city of Bruges offers. For five months, each group of diplomats will therefore live, study, and be housed in one of the residences located in the city centre, which will contribute to foster an esprit de corps and a sense of belonging.
The Rector of the College of Europe, Ms Federica Mogherini, remains the Director of the Academy and will have the overall responsibility for the design and implementation of the second phase of the Pilot Programme.
This project is funded by the European Union.
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For more information about the Pilot Programme, please visit the website European Diplomatic Academy | EEAS (europa.eu)
For more information about the European External Action Service (EEAS), please visit the website EEAS | EEAS Website (europa.eu)