DIM Diplomatic Evenings
About the event
On Wednesday, March 4, 2026, the Centre for the Study of International Development and Migration (DIM) at SNSPA hosted the fourth edition of its Diplomatic Evenings series, featuring His Excellency John Cornet d’Elzius, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Romania, as the keynote speaker. The event, moderated by Lecturer Dr. Claudiu Crăciun, brought together students, professors, and members of the diplomatic community for an engaging discussion on the evolution of diplomacy and the changing dynamics of the international system.
In his lecture, titled “At the Autumn of a Career: Reflections on Changes in the World,” Ambassador Cornet d’Elzius reflected on the transformations of global politics through the lens of a diplomatic career spanning more than four decades. Drawing on experiences from postings in North America, Europe, and the Middle East, as well as within international organizations, he highlighted how the practice of diplomacy has evolved in response to major geopolitical, economic, and technological changes.
The Ambassador also addressed broader developments shaping the contemporary international environment, including the growing strategic competition among major powers, the challenges facing multilateral cooperation, and the shifting balance of influence in the global order. Reflecting on past expectations regarding globalization and international trade, he discussed how changing economic and political realities have reshaped international relations in recent decades.
The discussion also addressed themes related to European security and the evolving role of Europe within the current geopolitical context, as well as the importance of cooperation and solidarity among allies in addressing shared challenges. Participants further explored perspectives on the future of European cooperation and the role of diplomacy in navigating an increasingly complex international landscape.
The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session, offering students the opportunity to engage directly with the Ambassador and discuss contemporary developments in international relations, as well as the realities of diplomatic service.
This fourth edition reaffirmed the value of DIM’s Diplomatic Evenings as a platform for meaningful dialogue between academia and the diplomatic community, strengthening students’ understanding of contemporary global challenges and the evolving practice of diplomacy.
