In close cooperation with the Strategic Advisory Unit of the Dutch MFA, Clingendael is currently conducting a pilot research on the complex policy networks of the Ministry. The rapidly changing global environment is forcing MFAs to become more open and flexible, which seems like a break with their traditional organisational structure. The Dutch MFA recognizes that their networking practices need to be updated to modern-day realities. After all, the effectiveness of foreign policy is increasingly influenced by collaboration with actors outside of the public sector.

Ten departments, directorates, task forces and embassies in and outside Europe are participating in interactive workshop sessions, with the aim of thoroughly analysing their networks and networking practices. The digital dimension of modern policy networks is, of course, a distinct and important subject. The workshops in the MFA Strategy Lab result in a wealth of information about the diverse networks of the different units of analysis. It is clear that excellence and a strategic perspective on networking  are essential to produce the desired diplomatic outcomes. This project will result in a report that is to be published on the Clingendael website in the beginning of 2015.

10 October 2014