Leadership, Trust, and Dialogue: Fellows Complete the Executive Programme 2026 Masterclass
In June 2026, 33 fellows from across the globe gathered in Sigtuna, Sweden, for the third in-person Masterclass of the International Politics and Diplomacy for Health Executive Programme. The programme brings together emerging and established leaders working at the intersection of health, policy, diplomacy, and international cooperation.
Throughout the programme, fellows explored six core themes: how decisions are made, both formally and informally; how to build trust and networks; how to lead with courage and seize opportunities; how to engage with the private sector; how to manage failure and uncertainty; and how to communicate effectively in political contexts.
At the heart of the programme is a practitioner-to-practitioner approach. Rather than focusing on technical solutions alone, the Executive Programme creates space for participants to reflect on leadership challenges, share experiences from diverse contexts, and learn from one another's successes and setbacks.
Across the week, a number of recurring insights emerged. Faculty reflected on the importance of acting before perfect solutions are available, recognising that progress often begins with taking the first step. Discussions also highlighted the value of bringing diverse stakeholders into the conversation, particularly when addressing complex health challenges that require collective action across sectors and interests.
The programme is part of the Partnership for International Politics and Diplomacy for Health's broader mission to strengthen leadership for health in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. By equipping health professionals with political and diplomatic skills, the initiative aims to support more effective engagement across sectors, institutions, and countries.
As they complete the programme, the fellows join a growing global community of alumni, faculty, and partner institutions committed to advancing health through diplomacy, dialogue, and collaboration.