MIRD Class of 2026 bids adieu: a journey to remember!
Graduation image: Arash Nikkhah
A day of celebration marking two years of hard work, creativity and camaraderie for the graduating class of the Advanced MSc International Relations and Diplomacy (MIRD).
On Friday, 10 July 2026, MIRD students graduated and received their diplomas at Leiden University's Wijnhaven building. Friends and family from all corners of the world travelled to The Hague, while many others joined via livestream to celebrate this special milestone with the graduating class.
Before the ceremony, all graduating students had the privilege of signing Leiden University's famous Sweat Room (Zweetkamertje), historically known as the waiting room where students awaited their examination results. It remains one of the University's most cherished traditions, allowing graduates to leave their mark alongside generations of Leiden alumni.
Words of encouragement
The ceremony was opened by Programme Director Dr. Jaroslaw Kantorowicz, who welcomed guests in the auditorium and those joining via livestream. MIRD faculty members Prof. Madeleine Hosli and Prof. Jan Melissen also addressed the graduates, encouraging them to believe in themselves and trust their instincts, particularly in today's complex global landscape. Dr. Louise van Schaik of the Clingendael Institute highlighted the longstanding collaboration between Clingendael and the MIRD programme and congratulated the graduates on their achievements, wishing them every success in the next stage of their careers.
Appreciation and gratitude from the student body
Emily Swann, President of the International Relations Study Association (IRSA), delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of her fellow graduates, reflecting on the strong sense of community they had built together. ‘The past two years have asked a lot from us with classes, internships, life, all to share our passions and to experience all that comes with living. That is what I want to leave you all with today as you sit next to your classmates, and with your loved ones present.’
She captured the emotions of the graduating class, acknowledging that despite their different views, beliefs, political perspectives, cultures and languages, they had consistently supported one another throughout their journey.
The IRSA Board and the Student Ambassadors were then presented with a token of appreciation from the MIRD programme in recognition of their hard work, dedication and collaborative spirit.
-
IRSA Board Members and Student Ambassadors received a token of appreciation from the Programme Coordinator, Ragnhild Drange -
Graduating Students walk in -
Speech by Professor Jan Melissen -
Dr. Louise Van Schaik from the Clingendael Institute addressed the graduating students -
Graduate Carolina Calvinho Penedo taking pictures with her family -
Speech by Professor Madeleine Hosli -
Reception at De Pier at Scheveningen -
Alyssa Mendes de Gouveia receiving her diploma -
MIRD Programme Director, Dr Jaroslaw Kantorowicz -
IRSA President, Emily Anne Swann -
Hat Ceremony -
Class of 2026
Hat ceremony
Following the presentation of the diplomas and the speeches, the ceremony concluded with the traditional hat ceremony. As the graduates moved the tassels on their graduation caps from the left to the right side, they officially marked the end of their academic journey at MIRD. They then tossed their caps into the air, symbolising the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
After the ceremony, graduates, together with their friends and family, joined MIRD staff and faculty at De Pier in Scheveningen for a celebratory reception.
Highlights of the graduation on film
Want to relive the moment? Watch the video and enjoy the highlights of the graduation ceremony once again
Due to the selected cookie settings, we cannot show this video here.
Watch the video on the original website orMSc International Relations and Diplomacy (Advanced)
The two-year Advanced MSc International Relations and Diplomacy (MIRD) programme offers students a unique blend of academic education in international relations and political science with practical graduate education and training in international negotiation and diplomacy. Students attend a wide range of courses, develop their analytical and research skills, take on an internship, write their master’s thesis, and build network with experts in relevant fields. Upon graduation students are prepared to take on positions in international organisations, politics, and diplomacy; or for PhD research.