University students put their negotiation skills to the test in “Model EU”

Over the course of two days, students explored the EU through discussions with EU diplomats before putting their knowledge and negotiation skills into practice by role-playing EU ministers at Council level. 

The Embassy of Ireland and the Embassy of Belgium in Australia hosted a reception where students had the opportunity to engage with diplomats from Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Germany, Lithuania, France, Slovakia, and Sweden in a speed networking format. Discussions covered pathways to working in the EU, how young people can contribute to the future of EU-Australia relations, the EU's role on a global scale, and more.  

The following day, Deputy Head of Mission Dr Oliver Landwehr welcomed the students to the EU Delegation. A panel of Team Europe diplomats - HE Mr Klas Molin (Ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, Embassy of Sweden), Marcin Kawałowski (Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Poland), Dr Vivien Sierens (Consul, Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium), Sara Saramäki (Second Secretary, Embassy of Finland) - answered students' questions about the EU, as well as the importance of skills such as negotiation, cultural awareness, and adaptability.  

The students put these skills into practice through the Model EU simulation. Students were assigned an EU Member State and took on the role of an EU minister, negotiating with their peers on a draft legislation proposed by the EU.  

The event received positive feedback from participants. One student said the experience “profoundly informed my understanding of diplomacy and EU policy negotiations,” while another described it as “a rare and rewarding experience, from which I have benefited greatly.” 

Thank you to all the diplomats who contributed to this year's Model EU, as well as the ANU European Students' Association and all participating students for their enthusiasm and engagement.