RESULTS BOOKLET
RESULTS BOOKLET
MODEL EUROPEAN UNION STRASBOURG 2014
Table of Contents 1. WELCOME NOTES
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Welcome note from the Public Relations Team
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Welcome note from the Directors-General
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Welcome note from BETA
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2. ABOUT US
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What is MEU?
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What is BETA?
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3. MEU 2014
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Legislative Proposals Breakdown
Workshops
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Social Programme
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4. #MyMEU - THE CONFERENCE AS...
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Minister
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MEP
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Interpreter
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Journalist
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Lobbyist
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Chair
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Director-General
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5. FEEDBACK & STATISTICS
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WELCOME NOTE FROM THE PUBLIC RELATIONS TEAM
Joshua Henwood Head of Public Relations MEU 2014
Dear friends and supporters, The European Union, since its inception, has looked to show the continent and the world that when we come together as a community, we have common interests and common goals that only make our ties as a continent stronger. Model European Union (MEU) is a project that has been making good of this concept in each of its eight editions. The eighth edition, MEU 2014, was no different as 173 participants came together in Strasbourg, France travelling from 30 different countries representing 36 different nationalities. In this booklet, we have condensed the week-long conference, which is already a result of a year’s worth of work, into this short booklet aiming to highlight the whos, whats, wheres, hows, how wells, and whys of the conference. At the same time trying to keep it light and in the spirit of the conference itself. MEU 2014 could not have been achieved without its dedicated organising team, the hard work of the participants, and the generosity of our partners. The 67-strong organising team have successfully produced an authentic, professional and challenging experience for the participants after ten months hard work. MEU 2014’s successes were also down to the high calibre of participants, whose reviews make up a large portion of the booklet.
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We would like to especially thank all of our partners and supporters. We are indebted to the help and assistance of numerous individuals, organisations and groups and without such assistance, the event simply would not have been possible. Our sincerest and most grateful of thanks go out to you all. Although this booklet marks the end of MEU 2014, it is not the end of the road for the project. Preparations for the ninth edition, MEU 2015, have already begun and we are very excited by the prospects of this new edition as well as being able to improve upon past editions and continue to make this project more and more successful, providing an unrivalled simulation of European politics. We look forward to your continued support! Wishing you an enjoyable read,
Joshua Henwood
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WELCOME NOTE FROM THE DIRECTORS-GENERAL
Léo Wilkinson Aleksandra Wiśniewska Directors-General of MEU 2014
Dear friends and supporters of the MEU Strasbourg 2014 project, Welcome to this year’s Results Booklet of MEU Strasbourg. It has been a tremendous privilege and pleasure for us to lead the team responsible for such a successful edition of the conference. As we mentioned during both the opening and closing ceremonies of the conference in the European Parliament, we would like to thank our numerous partners and supporters from all over Europe and beyond. We were all extremely humbled to have received so much support from such a huge range of institutions, organisations, youth groups, charities, political groups and associations. This year more than ever, our thanks also go to the European Parliament’s Information Office in Strasbourg for their continuous support for the project both throughout the year and during the conference. Their help has been pivotal in helping us deliver such a smooth-running edition of the conference. The quality of this year’s participants was outstanding, and the 180 participants made the simulation come alive like never before. We were particularly pleased to see participants from over 30 different countries and from a wide range of economic and
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social backgrounds, something which has always been important for us. It was a delight to see them take on their respective roles so seriously, but also with such professionalism throughout the entire conference. They truly encapsulated what active citizenship is all about, and represented with brio the finest of Europe’s youth. Congratulations to them! Finally, we would particularly like to pay tribute to the 67 members of the MEU Strasbourg Organising Team. Since May 2013, these volunteers who are spread out all over Europe have been working tirelessly to make sure that the conference remains the most professional and enjoyable simulation of European politics. We cannot be grateful enough for their hard work over the past 12 months, and it is thanks to them that the project has been so successful this year. As the yearlong organising process comes to an end, we hope that you will appreciate their efforts, dedication and hard work as much as we have. This booklet is dedicated to them.
Kind regards,
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Léo Wilkinson
Aleksandra Wiśniewska
Director-General
Deputy Director-General
RESULTS BOOKLET
WELCOME NOTE FROM BETA
Daniel Keck President of BETA e.V.
Dear supporters and partners, Dear participants and organisers, Dear friends, The eight edition of Model European Union (MEU) Strasbourg 2014 is over, and already the ninth edition preparations are underway, but we should take the time to recapitulate what happened during this one week, and how it was achieved. More than 180 participants, out of several hundred applicants, had been chosen to experience this incredible project first hand. A week of heated debates, inspiring people, new friends and thorough insights awaited them in Strasbourg’s truly European environment. MEU 2014 enabled participants to understand how the political side of the EU works. They could see that it is not just ministers and parliamentarians that are important for this system, but also journalists, lobbyists, and last but not least interpreters. Each and every of these positions serves distinct functions and are essential for the entirety. However, during the week in Strasbourg participants did not just learn how the decision-making process of the EU works; they experienced and gave meaning to one of the core principles and true foundations of the EU: Unity in Diversity. By meeting people from various backgrounds, sharing their own cultures and expe-
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riencing others, the European identity and consciousness of the participants increased, and developed an understanding that is necessary to find solutions to common issues. That is what the Bringing Europeans Together Association (BETA) e.V. has been pursuing since the very first edition of MEU. For the eighth time, our MEU team has worked hard over several months to organise this remarkable experience for young people from all over the EU and beyond. They came together for three preparatory meetings, spent hours in online discussions, and wrote and received hundreds of emails. Without such commitment, none of this would be possible. However, without the support of our external partners, this event could not have taken place. Therefore, we would like to thank the European Parliament for the opportunity to use its facilities, as well as every employee of the European Parliament who made the whole event running so smoothly. Additionally, we thank the European Commission and the German National Agency for the EU programme ‘YOUTH IN ACTION’ for supporting us financially. Our gratitude goes out to all Members of the European Parliament, and the European Public Affairs Consultancies‘ Association, for their generous donations, and we would like to thank all speakers during this week for their informative and encouraging words and presentations. Last but not least, we thank all our partner MEUs and organisations who have promoted our project, and work together with us on the improvement of our concept. With such strong and dedicated support, we are looking motivated and confident into the future, and hope to see many of you again over the next years, and at the ninth edition of Model European Union Strasbourg.
With warmest regards,
Daniel Keck
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About us A quick look into what Model European Union is and who we are as the Bringing Europeans Together Association 9
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About MEU
History Since the beginning in Mainz in 2007, the Model European Union (MEU) has evolved into a prestigious annual event. The MEU Strasbourg is based on a simulation of European politics which was organised by AEGEE Osnabr端ck in 2005. A year later, AEGEE Strasbourg soon became involved, and in Spring 2007, the first MEU took place in Strasbourg with approximately 150 participants. The following year, the Bringing Europeans Together Association (BETA e.V.) was founded in Mainz, Germany, to provide MEU with sustainable administrative and legal structures.
Who? Each year, MEU brings together an ever increasing number of highly-skilled and motivated young Europeans to simulate the EU decision-making process. Applications are welcome from residents of the 28 Member States of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and Turkey. To make the simulation as authentic as possible every possible effort is made to ensure a representative proportion of countries. In 2013, a record 30 countries were represented. Participants are aged 18-26 years old and come from a diverse range of backgrounds, notably political science, law and international relations.
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Where?
MEU Strasbourg is proud to take place annually in the Louise Weiss building of the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in their roles as they use the Parliament’s official microphones, interpreting services and voting equipment.
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What?
During the week-long simulation, participants take on the roles of Members of the European Parliament, Ministers of the Council of the European Union, lobbyists, journalists and interpreters. Members of the European Parliament are divided into factions and represent their national interests and the ones of their parliamentary group. They have to seek a compromise with the Council. The Ministers of the Council represent their country’s national government during the negotiations, regardless of party affiliation or personal interest. In comparison, the lobbyists work towards influencing the decision-making process in favour of the interests which they represent. The journalists form a press team which includes paper journalists, photographers and videographers. They cover and investigate the day’s proceedings in the European Parliament and Council of the EU. They hold press conferences and produce a newspaper and a news programme on a daily basis. Since their introduction in 2010, the interpreters provide professional interpreting services in both the Parliament and Council. They are privileged to work from fully-equipped interpreting booths in the European Parliament. 11
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Over the course of the week, participants debate two legislative proposals which have gone through the European Union institutions previously, or currently. Over the years there have been many controversial topics which have been covered, in order to test the participants’ ability to strike compromises and to realise the complex nature of legislative work. These have included genetically modified food, passenger name record usage, Croatian accession, cross-border healthcare, and so on. This year, the legislative proposals were to give the European Commission a mandate to negotiate the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership with the United States, the other being to reform the European Social Fund, in light of youth unemployment. Both legislative proposals were chosen due to their proximity to the current political climate, as well as to show how important the European Union’s decision-making institutions are in major decisions and policies and how it affects us all as European citizens. Workshops and panel discussions are also organised for the participants. European politicians, professionals, diplomats and academics give in-depth presentations about the topics being debated.
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How?
Each MEU conference is organised by a different team which is formed in the May of the previous year. The MEU Strasbourg 2014 organising team is a group consisting of 67 highly dedicated, carefully selected, young and enthusiastic people, most of whom have already successfully organised or taken part in an MEU event. Coming from all over Europe, they worked together throughout the year on a voluntary basis to organise Europe’s most prestigious simulation of EU politics. MEU being organised by a non-profit association, the project’s funding largely depends on its various partners and supporters. MEU is privileged to be funded by the European Commission’s Youth in Action programme. MEU is also indebted to generous support from all its partner organisations and supporters, MEPs, various universities and the European Parliament Information Bureau, Strasbourg.
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Why?
MEU aims to give young individuals a first-hand experience of the complex structures of the EU’s decision-making process. The participants have the opportunity to improve both their academic and personal skills, and they learn how to interact with others in a professional environment. However, MEU 2014 is much more than a learning experience focused on the European Union. It also offers the participants insights into the social and cultural aspects of Europe. Bringing together like-minded young people from all over Europe and beyond, MEU offers a platform which encourages debates and the sharing of ideas and the fostering of a European identity.
About BETA
The Bringing Europeans Together Association e.V. (BETA) is a young, politically independent, non-profit association founded in August 2008 by nine young Europeans in Mainz, Germany. Today, BETA counts nearly 300 members from all over Europe.
BETA’s main goals are: To foster a European identity and consciousness based on plurality, tolerance and cooperation between individuals, as well as strengthening the European civil society by further developing democratic processes on the national and international levels. To establish sustainable administrative structures which ensure the success of the Model European Union (MEU) event in Strasbourg and other similar events. 13
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Even though the association is registered in Germany, BETA sees itself as a European association. We organise international meetings for closer cooperation and to foster friendships between our members. This enables everybody from across Europe to join in and engage in our projects. We believe in the power of the youth to shape European life. To help ensure youth across the continent are equipped to inherit Europe, BETA works toward fostering a better understanding and a deeper appreciation of the European political process. By bringing Europeans together, we can discover our commonalities and celebrate our differences. The aim, therefore, is not to simplify Europe. Rather, it is to bring the process and its components into sharper focus through ambitious civic education projects. Chief among these has been, and will continue to be, Model European Union, a simulation of the European decision-making process.
VISION
We want to inspire youth across Europe in order to accomplish the following core aims:
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Fostering European identity and consciousness, based upon the principles of tolerance, pluralism, democracy, and inclusion. Contributing to the ongoing emergence of a European public sphere. Strengthening European civil society by furthering public understanding of the democratic process at national, European, and international levels.
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Guided by these values, BETA seeks to nurture an active interest in the political process and the development of Europe by the following means:
Promoting intercultural exchange throughout our activities and events.
Cultivating strong civic networks by bringing organisations and people together. Encouraging community involvement and volunteer work among our membership.
MISSION
Supporting non-formal education and advocating extensive access to information about the work of European organisations.
Developing sustainable, successful Model European Union conferences in Strasbourg and elsewhere.
BETA Membership Being a BETA member is a great opportunity to be in touch with people from all around Europe and have your say in the development of BETA’s projects. What’s more, you can contribute to improving the understanding of the EU functioning among the European youth. Being a member enables you to take part in our activities, meetings, as well as in our yearly General Assembly, where you’ll meet your fellow members. Moreover, at the end of your membership you’ll be granted a participation certificate. Active contribution is given on voluntary basis, and it’s a great opportunity to work in an international, dynamic environment. What matters is that you can always participate in the life of the association, no matter where you live. To apply for BETA membership, please fill in this contact form: http://beta-europe.org/contact @
Should you have any questions about BETA, please do not hesitate to ask us during the BETA Workshop or contact us under contact@beta-europe.org
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MEU 2014 This section gives an overview of the conference’s proceedings in Strasbourg
RESULTS BOOKLET
Legislative Proposals Breakdown We selected two very topical legislative proposals this year that would also appeal to participants for different reasons other than just that of controversy, but also due to proximity and to expand their education on the many roles of the European Union. The Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership gave participants a look at how the European Union decision-making bodies have a huge impact on the Union’s foreign policy and how it is allowed to act in trade deals with third countries. The second proposal, which looks at the inclusion of a European Social Fund regulation to combat youth unemployment, aimed to provide participants with a proposal that was very topical in the current climate as well as very topical to themselves as young people. Here are reports made by our Head of Content, Ivana Dimitrova, as to how negotiations developed.
Negotiating mandate for a Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) The TTIP proposal passed by one single vote: 6 abstentions, 45 votes against, 46 votes in favour. There were many controversies in both Parliament and Council regarding the text: From the inclusion of audio-visual services and culture, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), to discussions on shale gas and related extraction technology (‘fracking’), many current issues were debated. Other issues that were raised include US visa application rules which are stricter for certain EU Member States, the possible inclusion of Turkey into TTIP, the liberalization of military procurement, and the investor-to-state dispute settlement mechanism. Furthermore, data protection concerns were frequently voiced. Amendments to the proposal generally enhance the importance of preserving the EU acquis and Member States’ right to legislate in areas such as environment, social policies and workers’ rights, among others. Substantial changes to the proposed document include red lines in the audio-visual and cultural services section. It is however important to note that audio-visual services were not excluded as a whole, as happened in real life. Clauses on explicit labelling of GMOs as well as full compliance with the precautionary principle were included, a paragraph inserted to protect geographical indicators by establishing a transatlantic registry office, and military technology explicitly excluded from the mandate. Mutual recognition of standards in the pharmaceutical and chemical industry was also included as one objective of TTIP negotiations. Regarding data security, the newly agreed texts requests new rules on the exchange of bank details. 17
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Negotiations towards a European Social Fund Regulation From the outset, the negotiations very much centred around three main points of contention: The first of these was whether the European Social Fund should be reallocated so as to benefit the less economically developed regions, or whether the funds should still be spread out more equally across all member states. Predictably, the Commission’s recommendation to focus the funds on poorer regions met resistance in the Council, especially among Ministers representing more economically developed regions. Counter to our predictions, however, the parliament also opposed the reallocation and the Commission’s recommendations were therefore not met on this point. Another point of contention was the scope of the efforts regarding youth unemployment. Especially the S&D advocated a substantial allocation of funds to specifically target Youth Unemployment, but this was not supported in the Council, in the same way that there was major disagreement both within the Parliament and between the chambers as to what the initiatives on youth unemployment should focus on, and who the primary beneficiaries should be. At the end, a number of quite comprehensive initiatives were taken to target youth unemployment specifically, thereby meeting the recommendations. A last point was the focus of the Social Funds as such. While some initiatives were taken on social inclusion, the vast majority of the amendments concerned unemployment and education, and therefore our predicted dichotomy between unemployment measures and poverty alleviation became very real, in that both the parliament and council consciously chose to prioritise youth unemployment over poverty alleviation and other social issues.
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Workshops On the opening Sunday, participants had a preparatory workshop day to get ready for the week ahead. To start, participants went through the rules of procedure of the simulation and once some uncertainties had been clarified, they had the chance to engage in a mock simulation trying first hand all the point and motions that can be raised. Then, whilst journalists were given a talk on how they will work during the upcoming week, lobbyists were similarly explained how to lobby within the framework of the conference. The European Social Fund workshop included a representative of the European Parliament and a Member State acting as a representative of the Council. Ms CÊcile Coyez, an Administrator at the Parliament’s Information Bureau in Strasbourg, focused on the main aims of the ESF for the 2014-2020 timeframe, more specifically social inclusion, poverty reduction, as well as education and lifelong learning. She covered all the legislative and budgetary points when it comes to the ESF proposal with a special focus on its November 2013 adoption by the European Parliament. Ms Ana Ferreira Reis, a Social Affairs Counsellor at the Portuguese Permanent Representation to the EU, covered the historical development of the ESF and its impact in Portugal. For instance, she mentioned the ESF contributing to a 50% decrease in the early school leaving rates in Portugal between 2000 and 2012. Furthermore, there was a 50% increase in the secondary education attainment rate during the same time period. Participants raised numerous questions to both speakers. The Transatlantic Trade and Investent Partnership (TTIP) workshop included a representative of the European Parliament, an academic with expertise accumulated from the French civil
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service as well as from investment banking overseas, and last but not least, an American entrepreneur heading the American Chamber of Commerce in Luxembourg. Mr François Damerval, a Parliamentary Assistant to Ms Corinne Lepage MEP, delivered his address in French, which was consecutively interpreted by Ms Clothilde Cugnart, one of the interpreters taking part in the conference. Mr Damerval dealt with the general context of the ongoing EU-US trade negotiations, the constitutional framework in both the EU and the USA, and the position of the European Parliament. Mr Jacques Régniez, who travelled to Strasbourg directly from a business trip in New York City, put the EU-US trade relations into a global geopolitical perspective, talking about the long term consequences of enhanced EU-US trade co-operation, with a potential future merger of the Euro and American dollar. On the other hand, Mr Paul-Michael Schonenberg, Chairman and CEO of the American Chamber of Commerce in Luxembourg, had just returned from a high level meeting on TTIP in Brussels. He put forward the benefits of signing a trade agreement, which would according to his opinion create a new global standard for everyone wishing to trade with the EU and the US to take. All of the speakers recognised some of the recent issues in the EU-US relations, yet stated that these issues drew a disproportionate amount of media attention, eventually distracting the general public from the bigger picture. A heated debate followed suit with participants asking multiple questions to every guest speaker. For the final workshops, participants were divided into several small groups according to the role they were assigned during the conference. A group of Ministers and five groups of MEPs were further trained in public speaking and simulation writing – representatives had a chance to submit their own amendments, clauses, and resolutions and ask any questions concerning the formal requirements. Meanwhile interpreters, journalists, and lobbyists were joined by real life experts who kindly accepted our invitation to share their expertise how interpretation, journalism, and lobbyism respectively functions in practice. Participants had the chance to ask the guest speakers any questions related to career opportunities and current issues in the respective fields. We thank Ms Stephanie Kader, Mr Andrew King and Mr Albi Alla for hosting these expert-led workshops. At the start and end of the conference week in the Louise Weiss Building we hosted an opening and closing ceremony with the help of guests Ms Cecile Coyez and Mr Luis Martinez Guillen from the Information Bureau of the European Parliament to formally open and close the event at the seat of the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
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Social Programme The week was hopefully enjoyed to its fullest, not only due to the hard work accomplished during the working day, but also thanks to our extensive social programme! The Saturday was the first evening in Strasbourg, sharing our traditional specialities from our home countries at the hotel followed by a few drinks in the great city of Strasbourg. On Sunday, we introduced participants to Strasbourg’s many surprises, as a unique European city where the French and German architectural heritages are evident. Monday’s now annual Welcome Party took place at Le Seven, a night club in the city centre – giving everyone the chance to unwind after taking in a lot after their first simulation day at the Louise Weiss Building.
On Tuesday, the Alsatian Tarte Flambée took centre stage with a traditional dining experience at Le Brasseur. With a great atmosphere generated from jovial participants, coming in the form of renditions of national anthems and chants in many languages!
Our annual charity fundraiser was staged at Le Bar Snooker on the Wednesday night. With a superhero/villain theme, costumes were out in force, helping to set a fun and colourful scene. With charity fundraising activity abuzz, only good could come out of it for both participants and the charity Regard d’Enfants alike, the charity deals with citizenship training and human rights teaching to children as well as working with governments and institutions to ensure that such activities are promoted. After a day’s rest and the final pieces of the conference were put into place at the Parliament, participants were treated to one final party, this time at La JAVA, to say farewell to new friends made and a job well done. All these events were organised to have a bit of fun, to be sure that you will have enjoyed the MEU week, and it would be seen as a way to reward your efforts during the days. We really hope that participants left Strasbourg with some truly great memories. A message to participants: don’t forget your MEU friends, and come back next year as organisers! 21
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#MyMEU In this section, we asked participants in each role to detail their experiences and feedback on the project
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#MyMEU as Minister
John Morgan Minister of France at MEU 2014
My first thought upon being told I was to be the Minister for France was shock. My lack of linguistic ability (and the fact I hold, whisper it, British citizenship) would clearly be a bar to office in the real French republic, but not in a simulation such as MEU Strasbourg! Indeed, this is the beauty of the simulation; taking young people from across Europe and forcing them to think as another nation. It is the ultimate equaliser; taking those from different nations, different social backgrounds, different political viewpoints, and throwing them into a maelstrom of debating and politicking. On the first day, we were treated to a succession of organising team members telling us that the week would be among the best of our lives. I was immensely sceptical, as is my wont. I had not attended any previous simulations, and despite my excitement about MEU Strasbourg I was not expecting something life-altering. Many of you reading this booklet in future years will be similarly sceptical. All I can say is that I was wrong; the week really was one of the most action-packed, enjoyable, intense, difficult and inspiring weeks of my life; being placed in a chamber with the continent’s most impressive young people really made me raise my game. The obvious talent of those involved puts paid to the notion that Europe’s best days are behind us. The actual week in the Council consisted of copious amounts of shouting, debating, arm-twisting, trade-offs, media manipulating, and Machiavellian manoeuvring. The thing is, though, that each simulation will be different. Our week was what we made of it; and future years will be entirely different. All I can say is that you’ve got to throw yourself into it with everything you’ve got; truly act as though you’re a powerful Minister between 8am and 6pm; it’s all a lot more fun if you become the Member State you represent. 23
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The perspective of the Council is quite distinct from that of the Parliament. During the first press conference, I coined the phrase ‘Sanctity of the Council’ to deflect an awkward question from a journalist. This quickly became a trend, and Ministers refused to answer any questions for fear of breaching said sanctity. This gave the Council the upper hand in any dealings with the media and with lobbyists. Like I said above, it’s all about power – or at least projecting an image of power. That’s my bit of advice to future years.
What we didn’t forget at any point though, was that it is a simulation. While we were technically ‘on duty’ 24 hours a day, we all switched off at the evening and got to experience the best that Strasbourg has to offer. At the end, as I thought back to the first day and my previous scepticism and realised that it was totally misplaced. I’ve applied for another MEU already, and I want to be on the organising team for MEU 2015. Perhaps I’ll see some of you there?
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#MyMEU as MEP
Cláudio Barbosa Teixeira Faction Leader GUE/NGL, Czech Republic at MEU 2014 MEU Strasbourg truly lives up to the claim of being the most realistic simulation of EU politics. Bringing young Europeans together for such an exciting intellectual challenge, this proved to be an exceptional insight into the makings of the EU, which no classroom or textbook could even aim to provide. We were told from the start: “The more you put into this conference, the more you’ll get out of it”. Thus, we dove deep into it; sleeping two hours a night, that early morning tram was never missed - such was the will to get to Parliament on time. The sessions could be described as a delicate balance between just the right amounts of political reality and theatrical drama, one constantly tempering the other. Sometimes, Emotion triumphs over Reason, and memorable moments emerge: from superb speeches to clever remarks, it is no wonder that the most “radical” speakers were the ones responsible for making the plenary come alive. An improbable alliance soon emerged between far-left and far-right, with strong rhetoric mostly directed against an early established “centre bloc”. I was delighted to see GUE/NGL leading the Left, brilliantly carrying the Red banner. And yes, this year also had its share of scandals. Divisions, coups, defections, you name it. Even lobbyists and journalists joined the party. In an infiltration worthy of the title “Lobby-gate”, some hid in interpreters’ booths to watch Parliament voting. During the last press conference, Left and Centre factions walked out in protest and held their own. And the week was complete when Ministers, I quote, tried to “run the show, shoes on desk, cigars on mouth” on TTIP. Parliament’s strong reply was a weak mandate, passed only by one vote. All these controversies were brilliantly placed in perspective by an incredible press corps
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which stopped at nothing to get the message out. At the end of the day, no MEP could afford to leave the Weiss Building without their copy of the “Strasbourg Spectator”. You could never get the day’s full picture until you’ve read it… But as Faction Leader, you live it even more intensely. To earn such trust from people whom you have never met before is an immeasurable honour and privilege, which I was lucky enough to have. But it is one that comes with great responsibility. Faction coordination means that it’s eventually all on you. Issuing statements, opening and closing debates, negotiating with other factions; it is you who will have any given journalist, lobbyist, minister and/or organiser on your tail, and a spotlight wherever you go. On your shoulders rests the added obligation to maintain party line coherence, a direct responsibility in assuring that MEU is as similar to reality as possible. And, as a Leader, it is your mission to insure that everyone under your watch gets an equal opportunity to contribute. In a smaller faction, this was not a problem, but a true pleasure. In the end, it’s good team work which makes it all worth it. There is no greater feeling than knowing that someone has got your back; especially when it comes that time to address Parliament, and you gradually feel your opening statement transforming into the most riveting and emotional speech you have ever given! All said and done, MEU didn’t meet my expectations, it exceeded them. The week was an unforgettable life experience - great debates, exceptional venues and outstanding people!
#MyMEU as Interpreter
I never thought I would learn this much as well as have a splendid time at MEU Strasbourg. I consider myself lucky for having taken part in this conference. I had the chance to work with such an inspirational team and I recommend every interpreters-to-be to attend this conference and experience the event. I’ve always wanted to be an interpreter at an EU institution, therefore I’d like to thank to the whole organizing team for making my dreams come true for a whole week. - Ayman Köseoğlu
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MEU gave me what I needed so much after my graduation - practical experience in the booth, broader knowledge of interpreting work, inspiration and enthusiasm to strive for my dream job. Besides, I experienced real team spirit and had great fun with my fellow interpreters. One of my most unforgettable memories from Strasbourg will be the feeling when I realised that for the first time about 100 people were listening to my interpretation from Polish to English. - Justyna Maćkowska
Future MEU interpreters: brace yourselves, this is NOT a simulation. Not for you. You’re the badass team. You’re there to do the job. I mean, the REAL job. There’s no simulation in MEU interpreters’ performance. However serious you approach the task, however, remember to look to your sides every now and then. Your MEU booth partners, plus your colleagues in the other booths, will become the best team you’ve ever worked with. This thing is as rewarding as you can imagine. The more rewarding, however, the better prepared you arrive. Study hard to play harder. SWITCH THE MIKE ON AND FEAR NOT! - Olek Szojda
MEU meant a lot to me, not only because of the fact that I was interpreting in the European Parliament, but, most importantly, because of the people I met and the vibrant atmosphere that surrounded the whole event. I was afraid of not being able to keep up with it, but in the end, I was really happy with the outcome of this experience and, above all, with the enthusiasm I observed in every single participant and organizer, the kind of enthusiasm that distinguishes you when you’re following your dream. - Marina Volpe
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#MyMEU as Journalist
Jonathan Bertulis-Fernandes Journalist at MEU 2014
My week in Strasbourg taking part in the 2014 MEU simulation will stand out as a definite highlight of my year. Having never had the opportunity to take part in something similar in the past, I was not quite sure what to expect when I first arrived. However, it soon proved to be one of the most valuable experiences I have had so far. The opportunity to meet and spend time with other young Europeans - no doubt the next generation of MEPs, European diplomats and civil servants - was at once extremely inspiring and humbling. This was complemented by the experience of working in the actual European Parliament, surrounded by a vast array of other European institutions and organisations, which was in itself immensely motivating. I am firmly convinced of the simulation’s importance and the wider good it can promote throughout Europe by bringing together different people from across the Union.
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From a utilitarian standpoint, I gained a whole host of skills and experiences which I am sure will prove invaluable in the coming years. My role as journalist and editor of the daily newspaper afforded me ample opportunity to develop my writing and analytical skills further, whilst simultaneously gaining experience helping to coordinate a small team. Moreover, reporting on events during the simulation forced me to examine and place multiple complex occurrences and pieces of information through a wider strategic or policy framework, something I know I will use a great deal in the future. Whilst academically, my studies of International Relations and Political Science have benefited immeasurably from my first-hand experience of the inter-state bargaining and multi-directional institutional interactions making up the European policy-making process. These are the obvious ‘professional’ or ‘academic’ benefits, of which these are just a few, to my taking part in the simulation. However, it is the less tangible benefits which I feel most immediately and for which I am probably most grateful. I return from Strasbourg reinvigorated and with a new-found appreciation of my European identity and the bonds existing between myself and other Europeans. This has left me determined to improve my European languages and knowledge, travel further, and in the future to hopefully work for the EU in some capacity. Moreover, I have a much greater understanding of the ways in which the European institutions work and interact with each other and the place of individuals such as myself within these structures. This is particularly pertinent given the upcoming May European elections. I am now able to clearly see the ways in which decisions taken in Brussels or Strasbourg have an impact throughout Europe at a local level. Above all, my experiences during MEU Strasbourg 2014 have created for me a definite idea of what it now means to be part of Europe – something which beforehand had always existed as an abstract notion for me. My horizons were broadened immeasurably and my world is now a lot larger. Or perhaps, it is simply more ‘European’…
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#MyMEU as Lobbyist
Nicoletta Primo Lobbyist at MEU 2014
It started at 3am with a taxi to the airport and a venti sized cup of coffee. MEU Strasbourg had begun and little did I know what I would be getting myself into. Everyone was so welcoming when I arrived and my roommates were so lovely. Knowing that I wouldn’t know anyone there made me so nervous before I left, but I soon learnt just to go for it and chat to people. The Eurofeast was a great ice-breaker as everyone was looking to get to know each other so it was such a great way to meet new people from across Europe. The lobbyists were also fortunate to have a talk by Albi Alla from Alber and Geiger, a lobbyist firm based in Brussels. This was really useful as we learnt of real life examples he had lobbied on behalf of, along with strategies and tactics that would help us, not only in the week, but for later on in life in the field of lobbying. Having this talk also helped focus me for the week ahead, as from the start I knew what I was supposed to do and how to do it. I was so looking forward to putting what I had learnt into practice. Midweek, we were also lucky enough to have a discussion with Andrea Gentili from the European Public Affairs Consultancies’ Association (EPACA), who spoke of the importance of the role of the transparency register and gave us further advice on the relevant skills needed to be successful at lobbying. Despite the early starts, and endless cups of coffee, being in the parliament itself was a great privilege and really added to the authenticity of the simulation. I was so impressed with everyone’s debating skills, the range of languages being spoken and interpreted along with people’s humour and wit that they brought to the debates, making it all the more fun! It was also really interesting listening to the debates and figuring out who to lobby and who to play off against each other as well as working out which Ministers and MEP’s would cooperate, and who to use to my advantage, to put my amendments through. 30
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What I really enjoyed was having to argue for issues that I didn’t necessarily agree with, but was in the interest of my lobby. This meant I tried to detach my own views from the interests I was promoting, meaning I got to develop my negotiating and debating skills. I feel the lobbying role really related to my degree also (international relations and law), as political issues were being debated, yet I was having to represent someone else’s interests in these issues. Participating in the legislative process really taught me how the European Union functions, as despite reading about it, sitting exams and answering endless questions on the Ordinary Legislative Procedure, by experiencing it first-hand made it all the more clear as to how as an institution the EU works, demonstrating its pros and cons. Not only did I learn some great skills for life, the social aspect was incredible. Meeting so many other people from across Europe, learning about different cultures and generally having a laugh and a drink together really completed the whole experience. I have made friends through MEU I know I will keep in touch with and you never know; could possibly be working alongside some day! MEU round 2? Bring on the next one!!
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#MyMEU as Chair
Christopher Bergedahl Secretary-General of the Council at MEU 2014
Chairs represent one of the most prominent manifestations of the organising team during the conference. Not only do the Chairs act as the official mouthpiece of the Organising Team during sessions, but they also help put a face to the legion of volunteers who behind the scenes work tirelessly to make the conference tick. Over the Preparatory Meetings, we were continuously drilled in various aspects of chairing. This meant not only learning the rules of procedure on the tips of our fingers, but learning how to effectively adapt them to situations which do not clearly provide an answer which is black or white. As we were also chairing in one of the highest institutions of democracy globally, it was also necessary to appreciate fully the need to balance proper decorum with the right amount of dose of social interaction with our participants. That is, after all, what Model European Union is all about. My fellow chair Percin, as the senior member of our team, guided me in learning the importance of effective teamwork. The latter is key in order keep order in the chamber without compromising on progress. Effective communication was essential – and not just within the chamber itself. We readied ourselves prior to the conference by exchanging emails, discussing what kind of approach we intended to take individually and as a team. This was then reinforced by regular face to face meetings during off-peak hours which allowed us to give feedback to each other and furthermore discuss methods to adapt ourselves to the challenges of the forthcoming day. The first two days were perhaps the most overwhelming for me – and it certainly helped that we had clearly defined individual roles beforehand. Whilst I initially assumed responsibility to
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handle notes, questions, amendments and corerespondence together with our secretaries, Percin was able to focus on moderating the debate with his mind free from clutter. In a way, I feel that I was very lucky to have been paired together with someone whom I was able to get along with very easily. We both shared similar traits and attitudes, although our individual chairing styles vis-a-vis the participants differed. Thus, when my turn to assume the Presidency arrived, I felt very prepared and at ease of mind. The entire process was also facilitated by a group of young individuals whom I must say are bright and talented, and whose drive augurs well for the future of Europe. Although as Chairs we are trained for “worst-case” scenarios, I feel that the quality of a conference can be measured by the lack of the need for intervention by the Presidency. The participants quickly picked up on the rules of procedure and required little or no prompting to develop the debate. This is, to my mind, every Chairperson’s dream!
To conclude, I wish to state that the successes of the Council of Ministers would not have been possible without the contribution of all the organisers, with special reference to the two Secretaries of the Council who bravely assumed the role of handling all internal and external administrative matters, as well as the Content Team who regularly provided some thoughtful insight to the debate. It was an experience that has left a significant impact on my life and I highly recommend it to all students!
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#MyMEU as Director-General
Léo Wilkinson Director-General of MEU 2014
Never refuse a piece of chocolate cake, always proof-read an email before sending it, never hesitate to create words when they fail you, and always say no with a smile: those are the lessons which I have learnt from my role in MEU Strasbourg 2014. On a more serious note, being Director General is undoubtedly the most rewarding role which I have had so far within the MEU Strasbourg project. Even though it has involved an incredible amount of emails and many hours of work, it is the role which I have enjoyed most. Being appointed by the Bringing Europeans Together Association to lead their flagship project was very humbling and a tremendous privilege. However, my responsibility became one of empowering others, and allowing the volunteers I was in charge of to make the conference theirs. Enabling them to reach their objectives and seeing them taking ownership of different aspects of the project was particularly gratifying. Throughout the year, it was terrific to see organisers develop from being just former participants to experts in the different facets of the project. Some of them even got the chance to lead smaller teams and prove themselves as leaders and strategists, and – potentially – future Directors. To me, the project has always been about the process of organising the conference, and not only the end result. Seeing our volunteers enjoy and make the most of the roles which I had appointed them for was simply fantabulous. One does not often realise it, but the Director General needs to think about the consequences of their decisions in 2 or 3 years’ time. Seeing organisers develop guarantees the project’s continuity and success for the years ahead, something which was always important to me. This
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edition’s team having been so remarkable means that MEU Strasbourg will benefit from very talented organisers for many years to come: the best legacy I could ever ask for. Creating a strong team-spirit with 60 people coming from a wide range of backgrounds, cultures and each with different personalities is always challenging. I wanted to make volunteering for the project fun not only for myself, but also for the organising team. Fostering a ‘motivating drive’ behind the countless emails for over 12 months was not easy, and yet it somehow worked judging by feedback from the team. During the conference itself in Strasbourg, what I enjoyed the most was seeing my team so close-knit and enthusiastic. I was delighted to see many of the volunteers grow not only ‘professionally’ as organisers of a high-profile event, but also on a personal level: shedding away shyness, becoming more confident in their ideas, and staying calm in stressful situations. Having the chance to bring about these changes has made me extremely proud of leading the team. The conference has also been a great lesson of trust. Delegating tasks and relying on others was difficult at first, particularly when you want the conference to succeed in so many ways and down to every little detail. However, I very quickly realised that thanks to a conscientious and reliable team, I could let go and see the project succeed. Ironically, you then earn the respect of the volunteers you lead. Finally, I have learnt first-hand the tremendous importance of having bright and talented people supporting you. However many hours you put into the project, you cannot successfully lead alone. Aleksandra Wiśniewska, by being both a very tactful friend and an even more talented Deputy, excelled in her role not only thanks to her many years of experience in the MEU world, but also through her unique talent for managing people. It is also thanks to her contagious enthusiasm that we, by hook or by crook, managed to make the 12 month organising process enjoyable for our organisers, and for ourselves, too. My advice to the future leaders of the project would be this: make sure you surround yourself with the best individuals you possibly can. Ultimately the MEU Strasbourg project comes down to people; make sure you choose them well, and right from the start.
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5. FEEDBACK & STATISTICS TESTIMONIALS It was a pleasure for me to take part in this great simulation. There are so many aspects I appreciated that I cannot enumerate all of them here. However, the idea of getting to know the decision-making process in the EU at first hand and at the same time meeting people from all over Europe is a great concept. For me, it was like reliving my Erasmus-experience. Thank you so much!!! Just keep it as it was, the organization was perfect, Congratulations again for the incredible job!
Keep up the great work! The sessions and workshops were very professional!
It was one of the best events in my life! Overall the experience was grand. The hard work of the organizers really paid off. The experience was above and beyond what I thought I would gain.
Excellent experience! The organizers were never as open, humble and sociable as you all have been. A thousand times thank you! 36
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SURVEY RESULTS 98% enjoyed the MEU 2014 conference 93% found MEU 2014 to be professional and realistic 95% would recommend MEU to a friend 83% found MEU 2014 good value for money
GENDER
AGES
19 years old
youngest participant AGE
72
19
MEN
20 21 22 23
101
24
WOMEN
25 26
0
10
20
30
COUNT
37
MODEL EUROPEAN UNION STRASBOURG 2014
DEGREE
?
55%
31%
8%
6%
Undergraduate
Graduate
Postgraduate
Other
Most participants studied either European Studies, EU related courses or Law.
ROLES
98
28
22 A
MEPs
38
Ministers
13
12
TV 語
Interpreters
Journalists
Lobbyists
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OUR SUPPORTERS
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Copyright © 2014
Bringing Europeans Together Association (BETA e.V) c/o Luups Osteinstraße 16 55118 Mainz, Germany
Editor: Joshua Henwood Design and Layout: Katja Ilovar (Head of Design and Layout), Ferdinand Girke, Mirna Kuljiš, Karolina Pronckute Photography: Růžena Šenoldová and Asia Bukowska 40