The Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) is strengthening the ability of civil society organisations (CSOs) – especially those from the Global South – to play a stronger role in shaping digital policy. The programme, developed and delivered by DiploFoundation, guides participants through a practical, step-by-step learning journey that builds both technical knowledge and diplomatic skills, supported throughout by a flexible helpdesk service offering tailored expert advice.
Over the course of the programme, selected CSOs will:
- Gain a stronger understanding of internet governance, infrastructure and standards, cybersecurity, AI policy, and digital policy processes.
- Develop hands-on skills in negotiation, diplomacy, and cross-sector collaboration.
- Have the opportunity to join a study visit to Geneva, Switzerland, the global hub of multilateral diplomacy.
How the programme works
The CADE programme is organised as a step-by-step journey, supported by a helpdesk.
1. Technical Knowledge Track (10 December 2025 – 31 March 2026)
Participants first strengthen their understanding of internet governance by completing the self-paced Internet Governance for CSOs. Participants who successfully complete the course then proceed to one in-depth interactive course from a choice of three specialised online courses, each of which includes cross-cutting themes such as human rights, inclusion, and sustainable development:
- Infrastructure and Standards for CSOs
- Cybersecurity Policy for CSOs
- AI Policy and Practice for CSOs
Each course is composed of four modules and includes weekly Zoom meetings with the lecturers and facilitators.
2. Diplomatic Skills Track (6 April 2026 – 31 May 2026)
After completing the Technical Knowledge Track, successful participants progress to developing core soft skills – including diplomacy, negotiation, compromise, and collaboration – through the Diplomacy and Negotiations for CSOs course which will equip them with the tools to engage constructively and influence outcomes in complex environments.
The ten most engaged and successful participants are then given the opportunity to travel to Geneva, one of the leading global hubs of multilateral diplomacy, for the International Geneva for CSOs: A Study Visit (Q4 2026).
3. Fast-track Helpdesk Support for CSOs (Ongoing)
Along the journey, a fast-track solution provides helpdesk support for CSOs to help address specific challenges and opportunities in international internet governance forums such as the IETF, ICANN, the IGF, and ITU. Through tailored one-hour online consultations with experts, participants can request to receive practical guidance from CADE’s pool of experts, enabling them to overcome procedural hurdles, sharpen policy positions, and enhance their participation in complex digital policy processes.
