Background:
Since its creation in 1985, the Fellowship Programme (FP) has contributed to building strong leadership, enhancing institutional capacities, and fostering a global community of motivated Customs professionals. The Alumni Network has grown significantly with more than 1100 from 144 countries, bringing together former participants who continue to contribute to their communities, institutions, and professional fields.
This pilot initiative responds to Members’ interest in recognizing the Programme’s legacy and impact, while strengthening engagement with the global alumni community.
It aims to create an opportunity to capture longer-term post-participation impact and provide deeper insights into the sustainability of Fellows’ modernization projects, career progression, and Programme value.
A thematic focus on the WCO’s theme for 2026: “Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment” will enable sharing experiences where Fellows could contribute to Customs protective mandate, including for example enforcement against illicit firearms, financial flows, narcotics and unsafe goods but also advancement of public health and safety, environmental stewardship, disaster response, trade facilitation and supply chain integrity.
Expected outputs:
- Encourage knowledge-sharing: highlight alumni achievements and strengthen their confidence to showcase impact and success stories
- Provide deeper insights into the sustainability of Fellows’ modernization projects, their career progression, and the overall value of the Programme.
- Update alumni on new and key WCO developments and initiatives, related to the WCO theme of the year “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment”
Audience:
This event is restricted to Fellowship Programme alumni who are currently serving in a Customs administration. The meeting link will not be shared with third parties.
Languages: English, French and Spanish
Duration: 13:00–15:00 (CET)
Format: Virtual session only
Date: 1st June 2026
Registration: Restricted. Registration will close on 28 May, 12.00 pm (Brussels'time).