This annual programme, now in its twenty-sixth year, offers advanced training in conflict analysis, negotiation and mediation to mid- and senior-level UN staff, diplomats and representatives of regional organizations. The primary focus is on preventing and resolving disputes through the United Nations. Senior United Nations staff members, including Special Representatives of the Secretary-General and renowned academics and practitioners serve as resource persons for the programme to discuss the latest knowledge and practice in the field.

The next two-week training programme will be held in Holmenkollen, Norway in June 2019. It offers a comprehensive framework for how disputes begin, escalate and are resolved. Case studies of conflict situations are analysed to develop an understanding of the issues, obstacles and problems which occur. The programme also offers advanced practice in the skills needed to carry out effective preventive diplomacy and peacemaking.

The programme is supported by the Government of Canada, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, the Royal Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Norway and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Sweden.