by Jonathan Harris, Dublin City University
Whether on the job, or through schooling, every skill in life must be learned, and diplomacy is no exception. Until now, the role of diplomatic training in the making of international relations has been overlooked in critical scholarship, but a new book Diplomatic Training: Histories, Geographies, Politics brings together directors of training programmes and academics from across the globe to discuss its dynamics. These include reproducing dominant visions of the international system and the priorities of its funders, but also offering opportunities for mutual learning and for the contestation of those visions and priorities.
UNPO secretary-general Mercè Monje Cano, together with Oxford professor Fiona McConnell, contributed an intervention reflecting on UNPO training for ‘Unrepresented Diplomats’. They underline that though diplomacy is often seen as the domain of state officials, it is a practice that extends far beyond government representatives. Of course, non-state diplomats, including those representing UNPO members and other indigenous groups, minorities, and stateless nations, face significant barriers in accessing international forums. Even when marginalized groups manage to engage in international diplomacy, they often encounter intimidation, harassment, and even reprisals from states. These challenges are compounded by limited economic resources, lack of knowledge about diplomatic processes, and the absence of training opportunities. Yet, these communities are often the ones most in need of international human rights mechanisms to address violence, discrimination, and human rights abuses.
The Role of Training Programmes in Building Diplomatic Skills
Recognizing the need for marginalized communities to access international diplomacy, the UNPO has been at the forefront of empowering these groups. Since 1991, the UNPO has provided a platform for over 40 indigenous, minority, and occupied peoples to advocate for their rights, preserve their cultural identities, and seek non-violent solutions to their challenges. Training has long been a cornerstone of UNPO’s mission. Early programmes, such as the “Effective Participation Programme,” focused on teaching the basics of diplomacy, the workings of the United Nations, and advocacy strategies.
Over time, these initiatives evolved to address specific needs, such as media strategies, human rights advocacy, and digital campaigning. One notable programme, “SpeakOut!,” targeted youth from member communities, offering interactive sessions on topics like online campaigning and UN treaty body cycles.
Building on these efforts, the “Unrepresented Diplomats Training Programme” was developed to provide tailored training for representatives of marginalized communities. This programme includes workshops on advocacy strategies, UN mechanisms, and diplomatic skills. Participants learn how to frame their community’s issues, navigate international forums, and develop effective advocacy plans. The training also addresses the unique challenges faced by unrepresented diplomats, such as balancing the need to adopt diplomatic language while staying true to their communities’ values.
Creating a Global Network of Empowered Advocates
UNPO training is not just about imparting knowledge; it is a platform for knowledge exchange and solidarity. Participants from diverse backgrounds share their experiences, learn from each other, and build connections that strengthen their collective voice. Training also serves as a platform for raising awareness about the UNPO, for example with the “Model UNPO” simulation exercise, where participants role-play as stateless diplomats and deconstruct the idea that multilateral diplomatic negotiation is the preserve of states.
Since its inception, the UNPO programmes have reached communities across the globe, from the Batwa in Rwanda to the Uyghurs in Brussels, and even online sessions for minorities in Iran and other regions. By empowering unrepresented diplomats, these training programmes are creating a new generation of advocates who can effectively represent their communities and challenge established diplomatic practices.
Today, the UNPO Academy offers a flexible and varied resource for upskilling and empowering marginalized communities seeking to make their voices heard. Its training modules have ‘travelled’, being adapted to suit members’ needs and the changing international advocacy landscape. By equipping unrecognised diplomats with the tools to navigate this landscape, UNPO academy are not only fostering global understanding but also paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable world.
