JOVD Academy: Our Training Programs

As a liberal youth organization in the Netherlands, JOVD invests heavily in the political and personal development of its members. Through our JOVD Academy, we offer a wide range of structured trainings—developed and led by experienced members—designed to strengthen political engagement, public speaking, leadership, and policy understanding.

Most of our trainings are organized either locally or through Regional Training Schools, which bring together members from different chapters within a region. Below, we offer an overview of the key learning tracks within the JOVD Academy.

This summary is intended to give our international sister organizations a sense of how we support and develop our members.

This entry-level training introduces the fundamentals of effective public speaking, whether it’s giving a political speech, a wedding toast, or a school presentation. Participants learn how to structure a message, manage nerves, and speak with clarity and confidence.

This follow-up module is for those ready to take their presentation skills to the next level. Based on established rhetorical frameworks, participants learn how to connect with audiences and leave a lasting impression. This training is a prerequisite for anyone aspiring to become a JOVD trainer.

A high-impact introduction to debating. Participants learn the structure and rules of formal debate, practice argument building, and work on handling stage fright. This training is open to all members, including those with no prior experience.

This practical session focuses on posture, body language, and tone. Through video feedback, participants improve how they come across as a speaker—an essential skill in both political and professional life.

Participants learn how to construct and deconstruct arguments persuasively. This session emphasizes clarity and strategic thinking over technical debate theory.

This training teaches how to emotionally connect with an audience, going beyond logic to activate empathy and passion. Participants analyze audiences and practice using rhetorical devices to reinforce their message.

Participants step into the shoes of political parties negotiating a coalition after elections. This dynamic simulation offers insight into how Dutch coalition governments are formed and builds negotiation and strategy skills.

An accessible introduction to local governance in the Netherlands. Participants learn how municipalities operate and gain a deeper understanding of local decision-making and public administration.

This module focuses on the institutions of the European Union, exploring how European legislation is made. It demystifies the roles of the European Commission, Parliament, and Council of Ministers in current EU policymaking.

As a liberal youth movement, the JOVD is grounded in liberal values. This foundational training explores the origins and key principles of liberal thought, helping participants define what it means to be a liberal today.

Building on the first course, this training goes deeper into liberal philosophy. Participants are expected to have prior knowledge of liberal theory and are encouraged to engage critically with more advanced concepts.

This course explores the intersection between politics and economics. Participants examine how policy decisions affect economic outcomes—and vice versa—drawing on real-world examples.

The Dutch political landscape is diverse and dynamic. This training offers a comparative overview of the major ideological movements, their origins, and their influence on contemporary politics.

This training teaches the fundamentals of writing motions, amendments, and opinion articles. It’s ideal for members interested in shaping political discourse, especially within party or youth movement settings.

In this interactive session, participants learn how to prepare for and execute successful negotiations—whether in political, organizational, or professional contexts.

Participants learn how to plan and execute effective political campaigns. The training covers both personal campaigning and promoting political organizations, combining theoretical frameworks with practical tips.

Each year, members can apply for our Training for Trainers weekend. This selective program equips participants with the skills to design and deliver JOVD trainings. Completion of the Advanced Speaking training is required, and certification from a Regional Training School is considered an asset.

For more information, international partners may contact our National Board Member for Training and Talent Management: Durk Keizer 📧 talentmanagement@jovd.nl