International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy (ICPD)
Category: Community Development
The International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy (ICPD) has maintained an exceptional and sustained commitment to enhancing the protocol profession into a transformative tool for development. ICPD empowers professionals in more than 45 countries and plays a pivotal role in strengthening Africa’s global soft power and economic presence.
International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy
ICPD has fundamentally reshaped the concept of a centre of excellence within its domain, championing grassroots empowerment and strategic advocacy across the continent. Its focus on upskilling, connecting, and advocating for diplomatic and trade professionals has ensured the creation of a high-performing global community, with Africa as a central beneficiary.
ICPD has directly addressed worldwide skills gaps and worked to reduce inequality of opportunity, following the objectives of UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
Through the Global Executive Education Programme (GEEP), ICPD has trained hundreds of professionals from Africa and the wider diplomatic community. These individuals gain expertise in Protocol, Economic Diplomacy, and Strategic Leadership, equipping them to foster growth and operational excellence in their respective countries.
ICPD also serves as the hub of a large, diverse, and multicultural network. This platform enables professionals to share expertise, bridge cultural divides, and promote South-South and triangular cooperation among government and private sector stakeholders, underpinning genuine community development.
The Afriprotocol Initiative stands out as a community-focused campaign, strategically repositioning Africa’s diplomatic agenda globally.
ICPD brings together thought leaders, diplomats, and business figures to actively promote Africa’s soft power, advocating for the recognition of the continent’s cultural and economic accomplishments as diplomatic assets.
International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy
Additionally, the Afriprotocol Initiative emphasises bridging diplomatic protocol with international business ethics. Professionals are provided with essential tools to facilitate secure and productive trade and investment, especially across emerging markets.
ICPD is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of professionals, making a significant impact on young people and advancing diversity in the diplomatic sphere.
The organisation collaborates with UK universities to deliver specialised internship and educational programmes, granting young individuals vital exposure to international affairs, diplomatic practices, and strategic trade policy. These initiatives act as a pipeline for talented African and Diaspora youth, arming them with practical skills to accelerate their careers and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
By partnering with academic institutions, ICPD ensures its curriculum remains innovative and accessible, effectively strengthening the skills pipeline for global governance.
Beyond its core functions, ICPD is committed to global development, using its expertise to foster progress in essential areas such as Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Quality Education (SDG 4).
Through its Sustainable Leadership Scheme, ICPD ensures that its training is purpose-driven, guiding leaders in harnessing protocol and diplomacy to accelerate the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The Women in Protocol and Diplomacy Network (WinPDN) was established to address gender inequality, raising awareness and expanding leadership and management opportunities for women in a sector traditionally dominated by men.