Senior officials from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) participated in an advanced training program focused on negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution at the Clingendael Institute of International Relations in The Hague, Netherlands. The event took place from October 27 to 31, 2025.
Attendees included Special Representatives, Resident and Permanent Representatives, members of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council at ambassadorial level, and members of the ECOWAS Council of the Wise. The program was part of the 10th Edition of the Clingendael Academy Programme on Peace Negotiations and was organized by the Netherlands Institute of International Relations “Clingendael,” with funding from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The five-day training aimed to strengthen participants’ understanding of negotiation and mediation principles. According to organizers, it covered qualities needed for effective negotiators and mediators, strategic approaches to mediation support, and methods for building consensus among parties with different interests and beliefs. The curriculum also addressed differences between negotiation and mediation, stages in mediation processes, and how mediation contributes to sustainable peace outcomes.
Sessions included scenario-building exercises and group simulations designed to help participants analyze conflict drivers, assess uncertainties, and develop planning strategies for mediation efforts. Organizers said these activities allowed attendees to reflect on ECOWAS’s past mediation work from a comparative perspective while identifying achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
Since 2015, ECOWAS has worked with Clingendael Academy to build regional capacity for conflict prevention and resolution. The academy trains about 750 diplomats and 2,500 professionals each year. It is recognized as one of the leading independent diplomatic training institutions globally. Its programs aim to equip practitioners—including diplomats, mediators, peacebuilding professionals, humanitarian workers, civil society representatives, and government officials—with skills necessary for effective engagement in complex international environments.