Mats is a programme officer specialized in human security and local governance structures in settings of armed conflict and fragility. At The Hague Academy, he currently focusses on the development and implementation of training programmes in the fields of local inclusive governance, peacebuilding, and social affairs. He also supports the Talent for Governance Programme. Mats holds a BSc in Politics, Psychology, Law & Economics from the University of Amsterdam, a MSc in Conflict Resolution and Governance from the University of Amsterdam, and a MA in International Relations from Institut Barcelona d’Estudis Internacionals. Prior to joining The Hague Academy, Mats gained training experience working for the think tank of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and lecturing at the University of Amsterdam. Originally from the Netherlands, he has also studied and worked in Canada and Spain.