Armenian students discuss migration and trafficking at Model OSCE organized by OSCE Office in Yerevan

YEREVAN, 5 November 2010 - Armenian students began a session of a Model OSCE Permanent Council today with discussions of trafficking and migration matters.

The 64 students will attempt to create an action plan to prevent the illegal flow of labour migrants from a mock country during the two-day simulation event, organized by the OSCE Office in Yerevan.

"The high motivation and vigor of the Model OSCE delegates to negotiate and address various issues is inspiring. This exercise will give these young people deeper insight into international structures and mechanisms " said Carel Hofstra, the Acting Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan. "In addition, getting first-hand experience in attentive listening and negotiation will benefit the participants - as well as society - in their future endeavors, whatever they may be."

Armen Martirosyan, a law student from Yerevan State Pedagogical University, who played the role of an ambassador during the Model OSCE, said:

"Human trafficking is one of the most pressing issues in the OSCE region and beyond. We have elaborated a concept and an action plan to combat trafficking in co-operation with all stakeholders. In today's integrated world, we have the potential to address universal challenges through joint efforts. This is the second time I participate in a Model OSCE. It is an opportunity to look at international and political processes from a broader perspective."

Seminars on the OSCE structure and mechanisms to combat trafficking, as well as training courses on international relations, public speaking and negotiation skills held before the event prepared the participants for the Model OSCE.

The OSCE Office in Yerevan has organized several Model OSCEs in Armenia's regions.