An independent charity for diplomacy
The Global Diplomatic Forum is an independent, London-based charity (no. 1149226), founded in 2012. We bring together emerging and serving diplomats, policymakers and international affairs professionals from more than 180 countries.
We don't set the agenda. We give people the knowledge, skills and contacts to take part in it.
“Diplomacy is most effective when generations work together, combining the insight of experience with the energy of new perspectives.”
Our mission
To connect today's and tomorrow's leaders from every nation and every sphere of society, to build a more cooperative world.
Our vision
A more prosperous and peaceful world shaped by diplomacy that includes every generation, every sphere and every nation.
What we believe
Diplomacy belongs to everyone it affects. More voices make better choices.
Our objectives
Six objectives guide everything we do, from the courses we design to the events we host.
Widen engagement
Open diplomacy to people outside the usual circles, through open courses and events in every region.
Stay current
We update our formats as diplomacy changes, from online courses in four languages to live crisis simulations.
Convene leaders
Bring ministers, ambassadors and senior officials together for frank discussion, at the London Diplomatic Summit and our roundtables.
Empower youth
Give young people direct access to diplomats and institutions through the Young Diplomats Forum and the Youth Working Council.
Share knowledge
Teach practical skills and publish analysis, through GDF Academy, our members' library and the Global Agenda.
Build understanding
Bring people from different countries and generations into the same room, so they leave with new contacts and a better grasp of each other's positions.
How we work
Our work covers education, events, community and publishing, for people at every stage of an international career.
Young Diplomats Forum
A week-long programme for delegates under 30, held in two to three cities each year.
Explore YDFGDF Academy
Self-paced online courses in diplomacy, foreign policy and international law, in four languages, with a certificate on completion.
Browse coursesEvents
The London Diplomatic Summit, the Career in International Affairs Forum and live webinars for members.
See programmesMembership
A growing library of articles, reports, podcasts and event recordings, plus live webinars and discounts on GDF events and courses.
Join
The people behind GDF
A small executive team runs GDF, guided by an Advisory Board of diplomats, academics and practitioners.
- Younes El-GhaziChief Executive and Founder
- Marcin DaduraVice President
- Shy RabbaniDirector of Partnerships