Shiraka Training Programme – Social Affairs & Employment (2026)
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Implemented with Dutch partner institutions
Location
• Jordan
• The Netherlands
The Shiraka Training Programme is a high-level professional development initiative designed to strengthen cooperation between the Netherlands and the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region.
The programme targets experienced civil servants working in social affairs and employment, equipping them with practical policy tools, leadership skills, and comparative insights into Dutch and regional policy approaches.
Participants engage in interactive training, study visits, peer exchange, and develop a Back Home Action Plan (BHAP) to implement policy improvements in their home institutions.
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply:
• Civil servants working in social affairs, labour, or employment policy
• 5–10 years of relevant professional experience
• Nationals of eligible MENA countries
• Applicants who have not previously participated in a Shiraka training
• Strong motivation and institutional support
• Women are strongly encouraged to apply
Eligible Countries:
Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Yemen, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Tunisia
Funding / Coverage
Training Programme (Partially / Fully Funded)
For OECD-DAC countries:
• International travel
• Accommodation & meals
• Visa & insurance
• Tuition and training costs
For non-OECD-DAC countries:
• Accommodation & meals
• Insurance
• Tuition and training costs
International travel & visa costs must be covered by participants
Participants cover local travel to/from home-country airports.
Program Level
• Mid-Career Professionals
• Senior Civil Servants
• Policy Practitioners in Government Institutions
Training Focus Areas
• Social affairs & employment policy
• Labour market dynamics & informal sector
• Inclusive employment strategies
• Youth employment & school-to-work transition
• Labour rights & social dialogue
• Governance & policy implementation
• Leadership, negotiation & change management
8 februari 2026