The ASEF Public Diplomacy Training (ASEFPDT) is a prestigious program designed to strengthen public diplomacy skills among early- and mid-career diplomats from Asia and Europe. Since 2013, ASEFPDT has combined online learning and intensive face-to-face training, empowering over 400 participants from 52 countries to improve bi-regional relations and public diplomacy efforts within the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) framework.
The training offers a unique blend of interactive online modules and a 4.5-day in-person workshop hosted in Singapore. It equips diplomats with practical skills to design strategic campaigns, analyze case studies, and engage in peer-to-peer learning. This opportunity is supported by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, the European Union, and Denmark’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Quick Overview of ASEF Public Diplomacy Training 2025
- Host Country: Singapore
- Program Format: Online course + Face-to-face training
- Application Deadline: August 1, 2025 (nominations)
- Online Course Dates: September 15 – October 20, 2025
- Face-to-Face Training Dates: December 1 – 5, 2025
- Target Participants: Early-/mid-career diplomats from ASEM countries
- Application Process: Nomination by government + individual application
- Cost: Fully funded (travel & accommodation covered within limits)
Perks of the ASEFPDT13 in Singapore
- Five-week flexible online course with live weekly discussions
- Intensive 4.5-day interactive face-to-face training in Singapore
- Access to public diplomacy experts and regional trainers
- Practical skills in designing and delivering effective public diplomacy campaigns
- Networking opportunities with diplomats and civil society actors across Asia-Europe
- Cultural immersion through a guided tour during the in-person training
- No registration or participation fees
Benefits of Public Diplomacy Workshops for Diplomats and Government Officials
- Gain updated knowledge on public perceptions and bi-regional relations
- Learn to develop strategic communication campaigns with real-life case studies
- Enhance diplomatic skills for engaging with decision-makers and influencers
- Build a strong professional network across Asia and Europe
- Boost career prospects by mastering public diplomacy in the digital era
- Access to innovative AI-assisted tools for campaign design
- Opportunity to exchange best practices in a global diplomatic community
Exclusions of ASEF Public Diplomacy Training
- Not open to non-diplomats or those outside the Asia-Europe Meeting member countries
- Requires nomination by a government or relevant authority
- Participation is by selection only; limited slots available
- Travel coverage is subject to ceiling limits
- Face-to-face attendance in Singapore is mandatory for selected participants
Eligibility Criteria of ASEF Public Diplomacy Training
- Early- or mid-career diplomats working in Asia-Europe or ASEM-related departments
- Posted diplomats in ASEM countries dealing with public diplomacy
- Bachelor’s degree plus at least 3 years diplomatic experience, or Master’s degree
- Proficiency in English is mandatory
- Interest in public diplomacy, communications, or public affairs
- A nomination from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or equivalent is required
Important Dates of Leadership Development Training in Singapore
- Nomination Deadline: August 1, 2025
- Selection Notification: Starting the week of August 15, 2025
- Online Course: September 15 – October 20, 2025
- Face-to-Face Training: December 1 – 5, 2025
How to Apply to the Aisa-Europe Diplomatic Training
- Governments or relevant departments submit nominations by August 1, 2025, including candidate name, designation, and contact information.
- Nominees receive instructions to complete the online application form.
- Candidates submit an official endorsement letter, CV, and motivation letter.
- A motivation letter must clearly explain the interest and reasons for participation.
- The selection committee reviews applications and notifies candidates from mid-August onwards.
Required Documents for ASEF Public Diplomacy Training
- Official nomination by the government or the ministry
- Online application form completion
- Endorsement letter from the nominating authority
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter outlining interest and goals related to the training
