Capacity Development Programme for CSOs 2025–2026

The Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) is strengthening the ability of CSOs, especially in the Global South, to engage more effectively in digital policy processes. The capacity development programme for CSOs is organised as a step-by-step journey, supported by a flexible helpdesk service.

1. Technical Knowledge Track

Participants first strengthen their understanding of internet governance by completing the self-paced Internet Governance for CSOs. Participants who successfully complete the course then proceed to an in-depth interactive course from a choice of three specialised online courses, each of which includes cross-cutting themes such as human rights, inclusion, and sustainable development:

These courses comprise four modules and include weekly Zoom meetings with the lecturers and facilitators.

2. Diplomatic Skills Track

After completing the Technical Knowledge Track, successful participants then progress to the development of core soft skills, including diplomacy, negotiation, compromise, and collaboration – Diplomacy and Negotiations for CSOs – equipping them with the tools to engage constructively and influence outcomes in complex environments.

The ten most engaged, successful participants are then given the opportunity to travel to Geneva, one of the leading global hubs of multilateral diplomacy, for the phase: International Geneva for CSOs: A study visit.

3. Fast-track Helpdesk Support for CSOs

Along the journey, a fast-track solution provides Helpdesk Support for CSOs to help address specific challenges and opportunities in international internet governance forums such as the IETF, ICANN, the IGF and ITU. Through tailored one-hour online consultations with experts, participants can request to receive practical guidance from CADE’s pool of experts, enabling them to overcome procedural hurdles, sharpen policy positions, and enhance their participation in complex digital policy processes.

Call for applications

We invite eligible civil society organisations (CSOs) to submit a representative’s application for the CADE Capacity Development Programme described above. Application is a prerequisite for participation, and places are limited. We will select the strongest applications that are in line with the criteria below.