Twenty-three diplomats from across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) graduated from a groundbreaking negotiation training programme, aimed at bolstering the region’s diplomatic muscle on the world stage. Hosted at The UWI St. Augustine campus, the four-day, in-person module was delivered by the Diplomatic Academy of the Caribbean (DAOC) in partnership with the Clingendael Academy of the Netherlands Institute of International Relations.

The training, which concluded on December 5, 2024, focused on equipping foreign service officers with advanced negotiation skills vital for navigating the increasingly complex international arena. Participants engaged in case studies, simulations, and peer-to-peer exchanges led by renowned negotiation expert Professor Ron Ton. Leaders from UWI and the Clingendael Academy emphasised the importance of such initiatives for small states striving for greater influence. “This module is a testament to our commitment to advancing diplomatic excellence in the region,” said DAOC Manager Dr Nand Bardouille. The programme culminated in a certificate ceremony, marking a significant step forward in strengthening CARICOM’s unified voice on global issues./