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FCDO Global Network Programme
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Take your place at the table

How to apply for the Global Network Programme

To register interest in participating in a future Global Network Programme cohort, get in touch and we’ll set up a time to talk to you about our upcoming opportunities.​

The Global Network Programme will bring fresh perspectives to your thinking, connect you to an unparalleled mixture of experts and leaders spanning sectors, geographies and cultures, and open doors to collaborative opportunities.

Unlock your future networks. Get in touch via the expressions of interest form linked below.

Global Network Programme Expression of Interest Form

Any personal data submitted through this form will be processed in accordance with the Expressions of Interest Privacy Notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a participation fee and what does it cover?

The Global Network Programme is a paid-for opportunity. Programme fees will be confirmed with applicants who progress beyond the initial sift. The fee covers participation in the programme, including meals and accommodation where relevant, and lifetime membership of the alumni network after completion.

Full and partial scholarships are available for non-profit or governmental organisations, including foreign governments. These are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Is the programme delivered in person, online or through a hybrid model?

The programme is delivered entirely in person, with sessions held in London and a short residential element at Wilton Park in West Sussex. The relationships built between participants are central to the programme’s value and, for this reason, hybrid or virtual participation is not available. Each module will involve a small amount of pre-reading, which will be sent in advance.

Participants are expected to attend all modules for their cohort and to participate for the full day. We recognise that unexpected clashes can occur, and spaces will be made available for urgent calls or similar commitments.

When do cohorts start and what is the overall timetable?

The Global Network Programme runs multiple times each year. For the 2026/27 financial year, the planned dates are set out below. These dates are indicative and may be subject to minor change.

  • Executive Programme Cohort 3 is expected to run from November 2026 to January 2027. Precise dates are: 5 November, 11–13 November (residential),14 December and 28 January.
  • Executive Programme Cohort 4 is expected to run from January to May 2027. Precise dates are: 12 January, 10–12 February (residential), 8 April and 18 May.
  • Future Leaders Pilot is expected to run from March to June 2027. Precise dates are:10 March, 21–23 April (residential), 25 May and 22 June.

In addition to the scheduled modules, participants will be invited to optional networking events during and after the Programme. Participants may also be invited to selected wider FCDO events during their time on the Programme.

Who is eligible and which pathway is most appropriate for me?

A core strength of the Global Network Programme is the diversity and careful curation of each cohort of 25.

While indicative seniority guidelines are provided below, grades and job titles do not always map neatly between organisations. Applications and nominations will therefore be considered on an individual basis and in relation to the overall cohort mix.

The Executive pathway is intended for established senior leaders. In HMG terms, this generally equates to Director or Director General level. Private sector participants would usually sit on, or report directly to, the board of a major company. Foreign government participants would usually be at, or around, Deputy Head of Mission to the UK.

The Future Leaders pathway is intended for mid-career individuals preparing to step into senior leadership roles. In HMG terms, this generally equates to Grade 6 level. Private sector or foreign government equivalents are likely to be in middle management, approximately 15 years into their career and lead a given section or policy area for their organisation. Foreign government participants would usually be at, or around, First Secretary Political to the UK.

What does the curriculum include and what opportunities are available after completion?

Each Programme is adapted based on the makeup of the cohort, their expertise and interests. For the 2026/27 cohorts the overarching theme is “The changing nature of power”, with sessions on geoeconomics, soft power, hard power, multilateralism and technology. Sessions combine expert-led discussion, workshops and case studies, enabling participants to test ideas with leading experts, hear diverse perspectives and examine the systems, incentives and constraints that shape international cooperation.

An example module outline, taken from our pilot, is available to applicants who progress beyond the initial sift.

After completing the Programme, participants join a lifetime alumni network, with regular events and opportunities for continued engagement across the Global Network Programme community.

Are you developing further programmes?

Yes. The FCDO Diplomatic College is exploring further formats as the Global Network Programme develops and the alumni community grows. This includes:

  • An early-careers format, designed to extend the benefits of the Programme to emerging talent at an earlier stage of professional development.
  • A one-week residential format, to make participation more practical for those joining from outside the UK.
  • As the alumni network expands, we also hope to offer more events outside London and, where appropriate, outside the UK.