Breaking Barriers in Diplomacy
Problem Statement
Diplomacy has long been restricted by structural barriers—whether in career access, gender representation, or the inclusion of local communities. These limitations prevent a diverse range of voices from shaping global decisions and policies.
Target Group
Our project focuses on young people, aspiring diplomats, and underrepresented groups—including women, local community members, and individuals from non-traditional career backgrounds—who are eager to engage in international affairs but face systemic barriers.
Proposed Solution
We aim to break these ceilings by fostering direct engagement between young changemakers and diplomatic institutions. By creating opportunities for diverse participation, we promote a more inclusive and representative diplomatic landscape.
Hub Activities
Career Pathway Panels
Showcasing non-traditional and diverse routes into diplomacy through discussions with professionals from various backgrounds.
Gender & Diplomacy Dialogues
Highlighting the role of women in global affairs and fostering gender-inclusive discussions.
Community & Local Citizen Engagement
Encouraging embassies and international organizations to interact directly with local communities and grassroots leaders.
Embassy Open Days & Mentorships
Providing hands-on experiences and mentorship opportunities for young people exploring diplomatic careers.
The Global Shapers Bern team was thrilled to welcome so many aspiring diplomats, students, and young changemakers to the Ideenlabor at the University of Bern. A huge thank you to our incredible speakers Rick Slettenhaar, Deputy Ambassador of the Netherlands in Switzerland, and Marie-Claire Graf , Co-Founder of Youth Negotiators Academy, for their thought-provoking insights into careers in diplomacy and international affairs. Special thanks to our partner and sponsor, Bern Economic Development Agency, for supporting this event.
📅 Thursday, 22 May 2025
🕕 6:00 – 7:30 PM
📍 Ideenlabor, University of Bern
From an engaging panel discussion and Q&A to reflective career mapping and informal networking over Apéro, the energy in the room was truly inspiring.
Thank you to everyone who joined us!
Short and Long-Term Goals
Short-term
Increase awareness and accessibility to diplomatic careers and engagement.
Long-term
Establish a sustainable network that fosters diverse leadership in global affairs, ensuring diplomacy is more inclusive and representative.
Available Metrics
- Number of participants engaged in events and mentorships.
- Diversity of participants in terms of gender, career backgrounds, and local involvement.
- Increase in young professionals pursuing careers in diplomacy.
- Feedback from embassies and institutions on inclusivity efforts.
- Project Collaborators
- Embassies (Liechtenstein, Netherlands, US, Chile, and others)
- University of Bern
- Global Shapers Community (Bern and Davos Hubs)
- Hundred.org Youth Ambassadors Network
- International School of Bern
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