Simulating International Affairs
Negotiating a New President for the European Union, Spring 2008
Dr. Tan regularly conducts negotiation simulations as part of her PLS 111: Global Politics and PLS 427: International Organizations courses. In Fall 2008, she is also adding a Model United Nations course (PLS 292) in which students will spend a semester simulating international affairs.
Here are some photos of the Spring 2008 PLS 111 negotiation, for a new president
for the European Union. The presidency, a changed position as a result of
the 2007 Lisbon Reform Treaty, will be decided in late 2008, the president
taking office in 2009. PLS 111 students representing European Union member
states determined their country's foreign policy interests, advocated on behalf
of their chosen candidates, built coalitions, and finally elected a new
president. It came down to Helmut Kohl (Germany) and Lech Walesa (Poland)
in the final round, with Helmut Kohl eventually being elected when the Polish
candidate withdrew in the interest of European unity. Other contenders were Tony Blair (UK), Bertie Ahern (Ireland), and Marti Ahtisaari (Finland).
Finland lobbies the Czech Republic.
Germany attempts to charm Finland.
Ireland,
France, Denmark, and Belgium listen as countries put forth their candidates' positions.
Poland and Czech Republic talk about how to get Walesa elected.
Poland pushes Walesa with Italy.
Slovenia runs the show.
Slovenia tallies votes in the third round of elections. Kohl is building a lead.
United Kingdom, Denmark, Netherlands, and Sweden regroup.
United Kingdom selling the Blair candidacy.
Czech Republic makes an eloquent statement on behalf of Poland's candidate.
April 15, 2008