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 with 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, offering a unique platform to enhance their public diplomacy skills and understanding of Asia-Europe relations.

Hybrid Program Structure: Online Course and Singapore Training

The program commences with a virtual learning component from September 15th to October 20th, 2025. This online course allows participants to engage from their home countries, interacting with trainers and fellow participants through collaborative discussions and lecture materials. The online portion includes both asynchronous activities that can be completed at the participant's own pace and a single, scheduled one-hour live class meeting per week.

Successful completion of the online course qualifies participants for a fully funded, five-day in-person training program in Singapore, scheduled from December 1st to 5th, 2025. During this intensive session, participants will delve into case studies, design strategic campaigns, and interact with experienced public diplomacy trainers, further refining the knowledge gained during the online phase. The program also includes a cultural tour to provide insights into Singapore's culture and history.

Program Details and Benefits

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

The ASEF Public Diplomacy Training Program offers several significant benefits:

No application or participation fee. Coverage of travel costs to Singapore for selected participants. Accommodation expenses covered by the organizers. Opportunity to explore Singaporean culture and history. Interaction and learning from experienced 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 working with Asia, Europe, or ASEM in Ministries of Foreign Affairs (or equivalent) in eligible Asian and European countries. Alternatively, be diplomats posted by eligible ASEM Partners to ASEM countries, dealing with public diplomacy. Eligible countries include Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brunei, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, 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, and Vietnam. Hold a Master's degree or a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 3 years of relevant diplomatic working experience. Currently be working in an Asia-Europe context. Possess high proficiency in English. Demonstrate a strong interest in public diplomacy, public affairs, or communications. Be able to commit approximately 5-7 hours per week to the online course, including the live class meeting.

How to Apply

The application process involves two key steps:

Submit your nomination to ASEF via email at info@asef.org, including your name, designation, and email address. Copy the Governance & Sustainable Development Department (governance@asef.org) in your email. Fill out the online application form, upload the required documents, answer all questions, review the information, and submit the form.

Required Documents

Official endorsement letter Curriculum Vitae (CV) Motivation letter Passport copy

Application Deadline

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

Expert Perspective: The Growing Importance of Public Diplomacy

Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading scholar in international relations and public diplomacy at the University of Geneva, highlights the increasing significance of public diplomacy in today's interconnected world. "In an era of rapid information dissemination and evolving geopolitical landscapes, effective public diplomacy is crucial for fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between nations," Dr. Sharma explains. "Programs like the ASEFPDT play a vital role in equipping diplomats with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate these complex challenges and build stronger relationships between Asia and Europe."

Context: Evolution of Public Diplomacy

Public diplomacy has evolved significantly from its traditional focus on government-to-government communication. It now encompasses a broader range of activities aimed at engaging foreign publics, fostering cultural exchange, and shaping perceptions. The ASEFPDT reflects this evolution by incorporating elements of digital diplomacy and focusing on the use of AI-assisted tools in crafting public diplomacy programs. This forward-thinking approach ensures that participants are well-equipped to address the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Analytical Viewpoint: Bridging the Asia-Europe Divide

The Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) has long recognized the importance of fostering closer ties between the two continents. The ASEF Public Diplomacy Training Program serves as a key mechanism for achieving this goal by promoting dialogue, understanding, and collaboration among diplomats and professionals from both regions. The program's emphasis on practical skills, case studies, and cultural exchange helps to bridge the cultural and political divides that can sometimes hinder effective communication and cooperation.

By providing a platform for sharing best practices and developing innovative strategies, the ASEFPDT contributes to a more informed and nuanced understanding of the complex issues facing Asia and Europe, ultimately fostering stronger and more resilient partnerships.