Three Politics and International Relations students from the University of Westminster have taken part in the prestigious annual British International Studies Association (BISA) Model NATO at the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.
On 19 February the Model brought together 32 universities from across the UK in a day-long simulation of a crisis scenario, allowing participating students to gain insights into the world of diplomacy and international relations. Each university represented a NATO ally and the three Westminster students represented Norway.
The Westminster team was made up of International Relations BA Honours student Adam Nixon and Politics and International Relations BA Honours students Maisie Sheffield and Lema Vando. Together they prepared for several weeks, thoroughly researching NATO and Norway’s role within it.
Talking about the event, Dr Magdalena Frennhoff Larsén, Reader in Politics and International Relations in the School of Social Sciences, said: “It is a fantastic way for students to develop their diplomatic, negotiating and cooperation skills, but also to meet and engage with students from other universities. Our Westminster students gave stellar performances and played the role of Norway in a very professional and authentic way.”
Maisie Sheffield commented: “Model NATO was an incredible experience which opened the door to the inner workings of large intergovernmental organisations. I gained valuable debating and negotiating skills from the day and met some wonderful people who I plan to stay in contact with.”
Lema Vando explained: "Being able to participate in Model NATO was truly amazing. I had a blast talking to the other teams and the experience has given me a first-hand glance into diplomacy and policymaking, and I learned that diplomatic processes are long and require dedicated and committed people.”
Adam Nixon added: “Model NATO was a unique challenge and I really enjoyed the chance to engage with foreign policy formulation in such a practical manner. The high point of the day was managing to get the delegation’s policy into the final resolution, a real testament to our teamwork and the great research our team did.”
The Westminster students’ participation directly contributed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about studying Politics and International Relations courses at the University of Westminster.
Related articles
