Report on the 1st Inclusive Seminar on Multilateralism and COP 28 Case Study by Caroline Ofulah

It was truly an honour to take part in the 1st Inclusive Online Seminar on Multilateralism. Through a blend of experiential and didactic learning, participants had the opportunity to learn from peers and from the exceptional trainers and organisers. The interactive training brought together participants from eight different countries, creating a rich multicultural environment in which we could exchange ideas.

I extend our thanks to the trainers and organisers, the architects of our shared experience. All of the participants will be able to reflect upon the journey we undertook collectively and conclude that we learned, we grew and we expanded our networks.

Diplomacy is a field that imposes heavy demands. Diplomats are required to understand complex international relations and have a firm grasp of current affairs. We have to be well acquainted with the history of the four corners of the world and build bridges over the turbulent waters that mar this history. The role of multicultural training courses and continuous learning opportunities such as this is therefore of paramount importance — we cannot deny that. We were not just recipients of knowledge, but beneficiaries of dedication, expertise and the tireless efforts of a remarkable group of individuals at the German Foreign Service Academy.

To the trainers, whose wisdom and experience have lit up our minds, we express our deepest appreciation. You have given us practical tools for diplomacy, and we will use these tools to become more astute diplomats. You have given us an insight into the complex world of climate action, negotiation and the many other challenges that diplomats continue to face. The participants of the 1st Inclusive Online Course on Multilateralism also had a song composed, featuring our voices and hopes for COP28. I don’t think many people can boast of this!

To conclude, I would like to say thanks again to the German Foreign Service Academy. The alumni of this course look forward to further collaboration and learning. As the proverb goes: If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together. Through collaborative learning, we can all contribute to a world of strengthened international relations, understanding and peace. Together, we can go far.