Model OSCE Conference participants in Armenia discuss migration

YEREVAN, 2 May 2013 – Some 60 young people from Armenia gathered today in Yerevan in a simulation of the OSCE core decision-making body – the Permanent Council.

The two-day Model OSCE Conference is organized by the OSCE Office in Yerevan together with the Armenian School of Young Leaders.

Participants discussed relations between the hypothetical countries of Abandia and Groveland which need to jointly tackle challenges of increased migration, economic instability, and growing human trafficking.

"Through mock negotiations in the multilateral format, young participants try to find solutions to real challenges,” said Oliver McCoy, Democratization Programme Officer at the OSCE Office in Yerevan. “This also expands their knowledge about the work of the OSCE and its unique comprehensive approach to security."

“Today’s discussion provided the young people with experience of interacting in a consensus-based environment – something that can be useful for their future”, he added.

Prior to the conference, the participants received practical training in negotiation skills and public speaking, and participated in thematic workshops on the OSCE, migration and international relations.

Artak Shakaryan, Director of the School of Young Leaders, said: “Within this one month we have observed the evolvement of future diplomats - self-confident and professional. I hope that this event will encourage universities in Armenia to introduce similar simulation models in their curricula.”

Sevak Aslanyan, student of the International Relations Department of the Yerevan State University  who took part in the event, said: “It is for the first time that I participate in the Model OSCE Conference. As an Ambassador of Groveland, I was to shape a national position from zero and defend it at the international arena, as well as present my country to the other participants. It is an excellent opportunity for students to practice and enhance negotiating and interpersonal skills as well as the capability to defend one’s opinion.”

The OSCE Office in Yerevan has been organizing the Model OSCE Conferences since 2008.