A traveler who uses curiosity, respect, and empathy to build connections across cultural, political, and religious differences is considered a citizen diplomat.
Instead of just observing, you engage.
Instead of consuming, you contribute.
And instead of reinforcing divisions, you help build bridges.
Why is this important? Because travel has the power to create understanding in a world often defined by conflict and stereotypes. When you engage deeply and authentically with others, you become part of a global community of peacebuilders.
HOW TO TRAVEL LIKE A DIPLOMAT
Listen First: Approach each encounter with humility and openness.
Ask Questions with Respect: Seek to understand, not to debate.
Support Local Communities: Choose experiences that invest in the people and places you visit.
Carry Stories Forward: Share what you’ve learned with others when you return home.
HOW MEJDI BRINGS DIPLOMACY TO LIFE
For more than 20 years, MEJDI has been building connections with people across the globe—historians, activists, artists, religious leaders, community organizers, and everyday citizens with extraordinary stories to share.
Our tours are designed around these relationships so every MEJDI journey offers the chance to step into the role of a citizen diplomat:
Northern Ireland: Sit down with former political prisoners from both Loyalist and Republican communities who now dedicate their lives to reconciliation.
Colombia: Visit with community leaders transforming neighborhoods once scarred by violence into vibrant cultural hubs.
Bosnia & Herzegovina: Share coffee with Bosnians and Serbians while hearing firsthand how communities are rebuilding after war.
Greece: Discuss urban planning with activists working to preserve cultural heritage while adapting to modern challenges.
South Africa: Engage with grassroots leaders continuing the work of reconciliation and social justice in the post-apartheid era.
Ready to try Travel as a Citizen Diplomat?
Join us on an upcoming MEJDI journey and discover what it means to step into the role of a citizen diplomat. Together, we can create a more peaceful, interconnected world.
Explore our new tour calendar on the MEJDI website to see all upcoming journeys—including our Guaranteed Scheduled Departures.
Book a tour before September 19 and get 5% off!
WHERE WILL YOUR NEXT JOURNEY TAKE YOU?
Let us help you decide!
Our traveler specialists are here to help you explore all the tour options and find the perfect fit—or connect you with a travel planner to design a custom experience just for you.
The MEJDI team’s deep roots in social change work is where our mission comes from. MEJDI was founded by two peace-building practitioners, Aziz Abu Sarah and Scott Cooper. After leading social change programs all over the world, Aziz and Scott discovered that travel was one of the most powerful tools for creating a better planet. They decided to share their unique experiences and an unmatched network of contacts with those who aspire to become citizen diplomats.
