Program

In 2009 the Middle East Simulation took place in Konstanz as an original and first time project. It gave students from all over the world the possibility to discuss and take a closer look at a highly complex political conflict. Further, they were able to freely exchange views and opinions. This year a group of students from Darmstadt will keep the project alive and host a simulation about the Middle East Conflict. The project will bring international students to Darmstadt and provide them with the opportunity to discuss the conflict in an academic frame. Below, you will find a brief description and a preliminary schedule.

Description

From 8th-11th July 2010 a student simulation of the political reality of the Middle East will take place at the Technische Universität Darmstadt in Germany. The goal is to foster a deeper understanding of the conflict in the Middle East.

Approximately fifty European, Israeli, and Palestinian students will convene and represent the key actors of the regional conflict: for example Egypt, the European Union, Iran, Israel, Lebanon, the United States of America, Syria and the local/international media as well. The simulation will be chaired by a delegation representing the United Nations.

The various actors will be represented by delegations, which will take part in a simulation of the process of negotiation.

No participant will represent his/her own nationality. No delegation will be comprised of students from a single nationality. Through this the simulation will hopefully be prevented from becoming too emotionally charged, while guaranteeing a challenging experience.

Information manuals will be electronically distributed to you one month prior to the simulation. During this month, you will research the background of the conflict and the interests of the actors involved, particularly the one you will be representing.

The chairs will present three different scenarios at the beginning of the simulation and you can vote and discuss your preferences in topics.

In addition to participating in the simulation, you will meet with and learn about the other student's culture and life. You will also have the chance to come into contact with the host country and get an impression of German culture and university life.

Preliminary Schedule:

July 8th 2010

Reception, organisational and opening announcements and speeches by guest speakers

Workshop to explain the rules and procedures of the simulation

Dinner in Darmstadt

July 9th 2010

Rules of procedure, work in delegations and negotiations within the plenary assembly

Lunch in the University cafeteria

Negotiations and plenary assembly

Dinner: Traditional Hessian food and beverages

July 10th 2010

News update from the media, work in delegations and negotiations within the plenary assembly

Gala dinner

July 11th 2010

News update from the media, final negotiations and preparations of closing statements and agreements

Closing statements and agreements presented for the general public

Optional city tour of Darmstadt