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The Water Diplomacy Center (WDC) at Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), in collaboration with the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) under the Blue Peace Middle East Capacity Development Project, supported by the Government of Switzerland, has successfully concluded its second ToT workshop: “Understanding Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in the Context of Water Diplomacy”. The three-day workshop held from September 30 to October 2, 2025, brought together practitioners, researchers, and trainers to enhance their ability to deliver transformative learning in water diplomacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution.

Facilitated by Dr. Martina Klimes and Dr. Virginia Tice, the workshop was designed to empower participants with practical methods and tools to lead effective and inclusive training sessions. The program focused on equipping participants not only with technical knowledge but also with facilitation and communication skills essential for guiding complex water diplomacy processes.

Throughout the three days, participants explored how to transition from traditional lecture-style teaching to more interactive and participatory approaches. The first day focused on the foundations of effective training, including adult learning principles, storytelling techniques, and the importance of non-verbal communication. Participants engaged in reflective discussions and group exercises that encouraged them to identify what makes a learning experience engaging and memorable.

The second day emphasized mastery of presentation and facilitation techniques. Trainers introduced approaches for using visuals effectively and for teaching negotiation and conflict resolution in a dynamic, audience-centered way. A highlight of the workshop was the “Micro-Training” session, during which participants delivered short presentations on topics related to water cooperation and received detailed feedback from their peers and facilitators.

On the final day, participants engaged in a negotiation simulation designed to mirror real-world transboundary water challenges. Acting as representatives of various stakeholder groups, they practiced negotiation strategies, built alliances, and worked to achieve a basin-wide agreement through dialogue and compromise. The simulation provided a realistic and engaging environment for applying key concepts. The event concluded with a certification ceremony recognizing their successful completion of the program.

The Training of Trainers workshop represents a major step forward in strengthening regional capacity for water diplomacy and cooperation. By empowering a new generation of trainers, the WDC and its partners aim to expand the reach of water diplomacy education and promote more inclusive, collaborative, and adaptive approaches to managing shared water resources.

The WDC continues to serve as a regional hub for dialogue, research, and training in shared water governance.