In an era of rising conflict, polycrises, and disinformation, this course equips you to lead effectively in high-stakes diplomatic environments by developing the strategic mindset, practical skills, and ethical grounding essential for crisis negotiations and peace mediation.
Drawing on cutting-edge research and real-world case studies, it explores a professional ecosystem defined by agility, trust-building, and adaptive approaches, highlighting the shift from traditional security-driven responses to relational, non-coercive methods. Through interactive modules, you will learn to navigate complex political spaces, engage diverse actors, and foster inclusive dialogue.
Objectives
This executive course will enable you to:
- Apply strategic negotiation techniques in high-pressure diplomatic contexts during armed conflicts, political transitions or peace processes
- Engage effectively in peace mediation processes, understanding the roles of mediators, frameworks for dialogue, and strategies for building inclusive and sustainable agreements
- Analyse ethical dilemmas and decision-making challenges in crisis diplomacy, particularly when navigating competing political, security, and humanitarian imperatives
- Strengthen cross-cultural and multistakeholder negotiation skills to manage power asymmetries, build consensus
Who is this programme for
This programme is particularly relevant for mid-to senior-level practitioners from various organisations working or aspiring to work as:
- Early career diplomats and members of permanent missions
- Professionals in the fields of humanitarian affairs, security, and international cooperation
- Policy and governance officers and head of programme
Certificate
Successful participants receive an Executive Certificate of Attendance for the Crisis Negotiations and Peace Mediation programme.
Day 1
Building the foundations of peace mediation
- Foundations in conflict resolution and peace mediation
- Mediation practice from ceasefires to peace agreement
Day 2
Negotiating with power holders
- Engaging and transforming armed actors
- Mediation support practices: Instruments, initiatives, outcomes
Day 3
Crisis leadership in practice
- Foundations in crisis diplomacy and hostage negotiations
- Case studies in crisis management and peace mediation: Norway, Switzerland and Oman
Day 4-5
Mastering negotiation under pressure
- Future skills for negotiators and diplomats
- High-level simulation focused on designing realistic de-escalation strategies for the Iran conflict, drawing on established negotiation frameworks
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