Diplomacy and Negotiations for CSOs

Civil society organisations (CSOs) are vital voices in shaping inclusive and accountable digital policy. Yet effective participation in global and regional forums depends not only on technical knowledge but also on diplomacy, negotiation, and collaboration.

Diplomacy and Negotiations for CSOs strengthens these essential skills, helping participants engage with credibility, build alliances, and influence complex policy environments. The course explores the foundations of diplomatic engagement, negotiation strategy, coalition-building, conflict mediation, and sustained influence beyond the negotiation room.

This guided online course forms part of the Diplomatic Skills Track within the CADE Capacity Development Programme for CSOs 2025–2026. Through interactive exercises, simulations, and weekly Zoom sessions, participants will develop practical tools to navigate multistakeholder digital governance processes with both principle and pragmatism.

The four modules are:

• Module 1. Engaging in the policy arena: actors, authority and respect
• Module 2. Negotiation essentials: preparation and concessions
• Module 3. Building alliances: coalitions and mediation
• Module 4. From dialogue to influence: strategies and follow-up

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion. 

The ten most engaged and high-performing participants across the full programme will be invited to travel to Geneva – one of the world’s main centres of multilateral diplomacy – for International Geneva for CSOs: A study visit.