The purpose of this five-day training course is to provide participants with a practical insight into the negotiation mechanisms and dynamics between and within the EU institutions. Our high-level trainers will give them the necessary tools and guidance to enhance their negotiation, communication, influencing and lobbying skills.

Our course trainers, who all have first-hand experience of negotiations at the highest level or in-depth negotiation analysis, will teach participants how to become successful and strategic negotiators within the political and legal structures of the EU.

The course combines different learning approaches:

• Interactive training sessions examining theoretical and practical aspects of negotiations and the specificities of the EU decision-making process: the theory and practice of international negotiations; mechanics and dynamics of the EU Institutions; EU decision-making structures; influencing the EU from outside.
• Simulation exercises based on real dossiers where participants take over the role of a negotiator in the Council of the European Union and are confronted with actual conditions and constraints of the official decision-making procedures.
• Workshops designed to identify, develop and practise negotiation, communication and other essential skills: communication techniques and strategies; negotiation skills; lobbying strategies.
• Feedback sessions to assess one's negotiation style and identify areas for improvement.

Through this programme, participants will have an opportunity to:

• Improve their knowledge of the dynamics and mechanics of EU decision-making processes;
• Participate in several exercises, including simulation games based on real dossiers handled by the EU and the United Nations;
• Experience the role of a negotiator in the Council of the European Union during a one-day simulation game;
• Practise their communications skills;
• Receive feedback and targeted guidance on how to improve their negotiation skills;
• Enjoy a unique opportunity to debate and extend their personal and professional network;
• Receive a certificate from the College of Europe upon successful completion.