Fully Funded Public Diplomacy Training Program in Singapore Open for Applications

Applications are now being accepted for the 13th ASEF Public Diplomacy Training Program (ASEFPDT13), a hybrid program combining virtual learning and an in-person training session in Singapore. This fully funded opportunity is designed for early to mid-career diplomats and professionals working in the Asia-Europe context.

Program Overview

The program commences with an online training course running from September 15 to October 20, 2025. Participants can complete this virtual component from their home countries. Successful completion of the online course qualifies participants for a fully funded, five-day in-person training program in Singapore from December 1-5, 2025. The training sessions will be led by experienced public diplomacy trainers and experts.

Hybrid Learning Approach

The virtual learning component promotes collaboration through interactive discussions and lectures. The flexible format allows participants to engage with the material at their own pace, with only one fixed activity: a one-hour live class meeting. The course aims to enhance participants' abilities to shape public opinion concerning Asia-Europe relations. This year's edition will also introduce participants to AI-assisted tools relevant to drafting public diplomacy programs.

The in-person training in Singapore focuses on practical application. Participants will analyze case studies and design strategic campaigns, refining and advancing the knowledge gained during the online course. This segment provides opportunities for direct interaction with professional trainers and a cultural tour to learn more about Singapore's culture and history.

Program Details

Host Country: Singapore Host Organizations: Diplo Foundation and Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs Program Location: Virtual + Singapore Program Duration: Online Training Course: September 15 - October 20, 2025 Face-to-Face Program in Singapore: December 1-5, 2025

Benefits

The ASEFPDT13 program offers significant benefits to participants:

No application or participation fee Coverage of travel costs to Singapore Accommodation expenses covered by the organizers Opportunity to explore Singapore's culture and history Interaction with and learning from public diplomacy trainers

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ASEF Public Diplomacy Training Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be early or mid-career diplomats in departments working with Asia, Europe, or ASEM in the Ministries of Foreign Affairs (or equivalent) in eligible Asian and European countries. Alternatively, be early or mid-career diplomats posted by eligible ASEM Partners to ASEM countries who are dealing with public diplomacy. Eligible countries include: Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Rep, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Laos PDR, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mongolia, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, UK, Vietnam. Hold an MA degree or a BA degree with a minimum of 3 years of diplomatic working experience. Currently work in the Asia-Europe context. Possess high proficiency in English. Demonstrate an interest in public diplomacy, public affairs, or communications. Commit 5-7 hours per week to the online course, including the live class meeting. Successful completion of the online course is required for selection to the physical training in Singapore.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the following steps to apply:

Submit a nomination to ASEF contact through e-mail: info@asef.org. Mention your name, designation, and e-mail address. Add the Governance & Sustainable Development Department (governance@asef.org) in copy. Fill out the online application form. Upload the required documents. Answer all questions in the form. Review the information provided. Submit the form.

Required Documents

Official endorsement letter CV Motivation letter Passport

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the ASEF Public Diplomacy Training Program in Singapore is August 1, 2025.

Apply Now

Expert Perspective

"In an increasingly interconnected world, effective public diplomacy is crucial for fostering understanding and cooperation between nations," says Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of International Relations specializing in public diplomacy at the National University of Singapore. "Programs like the ASEFPDT provide invaluable training and networking opportunities for diplomats and professionals to enhance their skills and navigate the complexities of intercultural communication." She emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural nuances and adapting communication strategies to resonate with diverse audiences, highlighting the program's potential to contribute to stronger Asia-Europe relations.

Historical and Current Context

The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) established in 1996, serves as the political platform for enhanced relations between Asia and Europe. Public diplomacy plays a central role in achieving ASEM's goals of fostering dialogue and cooperation across a wide range of issues. The ASEF Public Diplomacy Training Program, an initiative of the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF), directly supports ASEM’s objectives by equipping professionals with the skills necessary to effectively engage with the public and shape perceptions. In the current global landscape, marked by increasing geopolitical tensions and information warfare, the need for skilled public diplomacy practitioners is more critical than ever. This program directly addresses this need by providing training in both traditional and emerging public diplomacy techniques, including the use of AI-assisted tools.