Programme Description

Strengthening Capacity in Global Health Diplomacy is an in-person training programme offered over a 12-month period for global health diplomats, practitioners and other professionals working and/or interested in global health. The programme is offered by the International Geneva Global Health Platform with support from the Institute of Philanthropy and is taught by faculty from the Geneva Graduate Institute and other leading subject matter experts.

In light of recent shocks to the multilateral system, geopolitical faultlines, technological developments, power and funding shifts, and calls to decolonize global health, among other key developments, diplomacy is more essential than ever for global health. For professionals new to Geneva and/or global health, the programme offers the practical knowledge to successfully navigate International Geneva’s global health ecosystem. More seasoned practitioners will be able to update their knowledge of contemporary issues and refine their skills. Additionally, the programme will offer invaluable networking opportunities for participants.

The programme consists of a foundational course (3 half-days), short courses (2 half-days) and master classes (2-3 hours). They are designed to strengthen key competencies critical to the practice of global health diplomacy:

– Essential global health knowledge

– Political analysis & diplomacy

– Strategic decision-making & leadership

– Cross-cultural & interpersonal communication

– Coalition-building and advocacy

2027 Programme Schedule

– February 10 – 12: The New Diplomacy of Global Health (Foundational course)

– March 18: Geopolitics and Global Health Diplomacy (Master Class)

– June 23 – 24: Global Health Law (Short Course)

– July 6 – 7: Negotiation Skills for Global Health Diplomacy (Short Course)

– September 14 – 15: Climate Change & Global Health Diplomacy (Short Course)

– October 21: The Global Health Ecosystem for Access to Medicines (Master Class)

More information about the programme is available here.

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Programme Details

The programme is designed for global health stakeholders based in Geneva. However, applications from outside Switzerland are accepted. Participants traveling from outside Geneva must cover their own travel and accommodation costs and arrange for their own visas where needed.

– There is no fee to participate in the programme, thanks to the generous support of our donors.

– The programme will be conducted in English.

– The programme will take place in person at the Geneva Graduate Institute throughout 2027.

– Participants are expected to participate actively in class discussions and complete assigned readings.

– Deadline to Apply: Sunday, 8 November 2026 (23:59 CET). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until available spaces are filled.

– Applicants will be notified of the result of the selection process by 10 December 2026.

Application Requirements

– A short statement of motivation: Explain your motivation for participating in this programme and how you expect the programme to contribute to your work: Maximum 500 words.

– A 1–2-page (max.) curriculum vitae.

– The name and contact information for one professional reference.

– Your profile picture and short biography.

Attendance Requirements

– To obtain the Certificate of Programme Completion, admitted participants must:

– Attend the Foundational Course, and

– Attend at least two Short Courses, and

– Attend at least one Master Class.

Applications will be selected based on the following criteria

– Strength of the statement of motivation

– At least one relevant work experience with work responsibilities pertaining to global health and/or participation in policy-making processes

– Regional, organisational and gender diversity

– Ability and commitment to participate in the full programme, in person