Are you a researcher and think thanker working in the Mediterranean region? Do you want to achieve more impactful results and enhance your skills?

Apply for the 2026 EuroMeSCo Workout programme!

As part of EuroMeSCo’s capacity-building initiative, implemented with the financial support of the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID), a new edition of the “EuroMeSCo Workout Courses” will take place online in 2026. The programme aims to strengthen the capacities of EuroMeSCo think tankers and researchers by responding to needs identified through consultations across the network.

In 2026, the EuroMeSCo Workout Courses will be organised around a common thematic focus on diplomacy, dialogue, and strategic anticipation in times of crisis. In this context, two online courses will be held in May and June 2026. The first course examines the role of Track II and Track 1.5 diplomacy in fostering dialogue and generating policy-relevant outcomes across the Mediterranean. The second course introduces foresight as a practical tool for diplomacy, enabling participants to use backcasting methods to imagine desirable futures and identify pathways for action.

Participation is free of charge. Priority will be given to applicants affiliated with EuroMeSCo member institutes or think tanks.

Learn more in the EuroMeSCo Workout 2026 I Contents & Schedule.

Course 1: Mediterranean Track II & 1.5 Diplomacy

Lead trainer: Ahmet Sözen, Professor of Political Science and International Relations, Eastern Mediterranean University

(supported by regional experts)

Dates: Mondays – 11, 18, 25, May & 1 June

Time: 10:00-12:00 (CET)

This course explores the role of Track II and Track 1.5 diplomacy in addressing conflict, polarization, and geopolitical rivalry in the Mediterranean. Through case studies, discussions, and simulations, participants will gain practical tools to design and facilitate dialogue initiatives, build trust, engage stakeholders, and translate unofficial diplomacy into policy-relevant outcomes.

Course 2: Diplomacy and Foresight

Trainer: Silvia Colombo. Researcher and Faculty Advisor, Research Division, NATO Defence College.

Dates: 8 June (14:00 to 16:00 CEST), 10 June (14:00 to 16:00 CEST), 12 June (11:00 to 13:00 CEST).

This course focuses on the use of foresight in diplomacy and decision-making in times of crisis. Participants will explore different foresight approaches, with a particular emphasis on Backcasting as a practical tool to imagine desirable futures, map diplomatic pathways, and develop strategic responses to complex and long-term crises.

How to apply?

Interested candidates are invited to complete the application form by 8 April 2026, 23:59 CET.

EuroMeSCo Workout 2026 I CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS  – Fill in form

Spaces are limited, and selection will prioritise applicants affiliated with EuroMeSCo member institutes.

Questions? If you don’t find your answer in the call for participants, feel free to reach out to the EuroMeSCo Secretariat via euromesco@iemed.org