Training for the Bulgarian Diplomatic Service
The Institute is committed to shaping the next generations of the Bulgarian diplomatic service
Our Mission
The Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute values continuity within the diplomatic service and ensures the transmission of good traditions across generations of diplomats by applying contemporary training practices and methodologies in the fields of diplomatic practice and international relations.
The Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute is the only Bulgarian state institution mandated under the Diplomatic Service Act to organise specialised training programmes for employees of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These programmes aim to develop essential professional skills and competencies among young diplomats entering the MFA system, while helping established career diplomats enhance their qualifications and deepen their expertise.
Training Programs
Course in Diplomacy for Trainee Attachés
A mandatory component of the training of newly appointed trainee attachés at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the successful completion of a competitive selection procedure and prior to receiving the diplomatic rank of attaché. The course provides a core platform for professional and practical preparation for work in the diplomatic service.
Key Features:
Comprehensive training focused on the practical tasks and responsibilities of the diplomatic service
Thematic modules covering contemporary international relations and diplomacy and Bulgarian foreign policy, combined with interactive activities, including role-playing and simulation exercises and debates
Practical exercises in diplomatic protocol and etiquette, negotiation, public speaking and media interviews
The course concludes with the preparation of expert reports on current foreign policy issues and their public presentation
Three-month duration, with an opportunity for short-term practical training at Bulgarian consular services abroad
Each cohort has selected its patron since 2015
Consular Diplomacy Course
A mandatory component of the professional qualification and specialised training of MFA employees selected for long-term assignments at the diplomatic missions of the Republic of Bulgaria to perform duties in consular services. The course is held annually in cooperation with the Consular Relations Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Key Features:
Theoretical and practical modules covering all aspects of consular activities abroad
Topics include the provision of consular services and administrative and legal assistance to Bulgarian citizens abroad; visa policy within the Schengen Area; work with consular information systems; and the response of consular services to emergencies and crises abroad
Lecturers include experienced experts from the Consular Relations Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as representatives of other government institutions, including the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice, the State Agency for Refugees, the State Agency for Bulgarians Abroad and others
The course concludes with a theoretical and practical examination
Pre-Posting Preparation Course
Specialised training for diplomats and civil servants at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prior to beginning their long-term assignments at Bulgarian diplomatic missions abroad, providing the knowledge and skills required for successful work at diplomatic missions.
Key Features:
The programme combines practical aspects of working at a diplomatic mission abroad with specialised training on Bulgaria’s key foreign policy priorities
Topics include contemporary conflicts and trends in international relations; responses to crises and emergencies; economic diplomacy; cultural diplomacy; public and digital diplomacy; cybersecurity and countering disinformation; protocol and etiquette; and anti-corruption measures
One-week duration
Management Skills in the Diplomatic Service Course
Specialised training for employees appointed for the first time to managerial positions—head of sector, head of department or director—within the Central Administration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria during the preceding calendar year.
Key Features:
Modules focused on decision-making and strategic planning, effective teamwork, leadership and employee motivation, rhetoric and public speaking, financial management, anti-corruption measures and information security
Lecturers are highly qualified experts from the diplomatic service and academic community
Three-day duration
Would You Like to Become Part of the Bulgarian Diplomatic Service?
Take the first steps towards a career in Bulgarian diplomacy:
