Dr Jérôme Duberry is a well-known figure in his field with multiple skills. He recently has been nominated as the New Academic Advisor of the International Negotiation and Policy-making programme. We asked him two questions about this thematic’ main challenges and the perspectives of the programme.

What are the main challenges of International Negotiation and Policy-Making today?

Global governance today is challenged by a tense and polarised international context, a plethora of state and non-state actors with diverse and often divergent interests, and critical global challenges such as climate change that require collaboration on both decision-making and implementation. Moreover, new technological tools, such as artificial intelligence, present simultaneously new opportunities to support international negotiations and issues of power, surveillance, and security. While uncertainty is not unique to international relations, the coming years constitute a question mark. In what directions will global governance evolve? More bilateralism, multilateralism or multi-stakeholderism? Will we be able to respond in time to the challenges of the 21st century to ensure an attractive and promising future for the generations to come? The challenges are many, but I am convinced we have the resources and the tools to overcome them.

Also, as the new Academic Advisor of the International Negotiation and Policy-Making programme, my main concern is to find the right balance. Be it between the existing and the new, the dual requirement of keeping up with the rich and successful heritage of a 10+ years programme while at the same time introducing innovations that respond to the latest developments in contemporary diplomacy, whether in terms of topics, approaches or tools.

What are the perspectives of this programme?

The programme is structured around three main themes: global governance, policy-making, and negotiations, which we focus intensely on, with two modules dedicated to its study and practice. We can count on high-level experts with long experience in these fields. In terms of innovation, this year, we include new policy areas such as cyberspace and digital technologies, diversity and education. 

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Want to learn more about the Executive Programme in International Negotiation & Policy-Making? Visit the programme page.