Inside the world of diplomacy

Students from across the state converged on UNSW over the weekend to hear former Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and Consuls General Niels Marquardt (US) and Nick McInnes (UK) speak at the UN Society’s flagship event, the University Diplomacy Conference.

The student-led initiative attracted hundreds of participants, who took part in workshops with diplomats and NGO leaders aimed at equipping them with the right skills for effective leadership and negotiation.

Mr Downer, who is currently the UN Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on Cyprus, discussed the role of the Security Council and the issue of power politics, including the need for reform.  

“He was inspiring and spoke very frankly,” says UN Society President and fourth-year Arts/Law student Emma Bowers.

“Another highlight for me was hearing the CEO of Hamlin Fistula Australia, Lucy Perry, speak about people’s potential to be diplomats in any profession. Anyone can use these types of skills to help others, which was a powerful message,” she says.

While the conference had an international focus, it attracted students from a range of disciplines.  

“We had students of all background attend the conference, such as those studying commerce and psychology. It definitely wasn’t just for Law students,” she says.

The event, organised by the UN Society’s conference director Anneke Pol, also featured an interview with UNSW Associate Professor Andrea Durbach, Director of the Australian Human Rights Centre and a closing address from UNSW Professor of International Law and expert member of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Peoples, Megan Davis.

Workshops facilitated by Emma and fellow students focused on negotiation and advocacy skills, and emphasised the importance of taking a principled approach when staking interests in issues.

“We received very positive feedback from participants. They all stressed how engaging they found it to be," Emma says.

UNSW Law and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences were major sponsors of the event.

Media contact: Cassie Chorn, UNSW Media Office, 9385 8107