Oxford Union Trinity Term 2023

the OXFORD UNION

welcome president’s

Matthew Dick The President

Dear Members,

It is an honour to present the Trinity termcard. I sincerely hope that it encourages you to leave the punts or libraries that you might find yourself in and venture over to St Michael’s Street. As we continue to celebrate the Bicentenary of the Oxford Union, I entreat you to engage with the Union, not merely as an historical artefact but as a place to debate.

On 5th April 1823, 25 founding members of the Union clambered into someone’s Christ Church room to hold the first recorded debate. 200 years later we are still organising debates animated by the same spirit. It is a spirit that greets ideas contrary to one’s own not as a thing to be eliminated, but rather as an opportunity to engage in debate and through that debate arrive at some fuller truth about the world around us. The Union is special not because as Harold Macmillan said it is “the last bastion of free speech,” but because it is perhaps the last bastion of empathetic dialogue. On a Thursday night, irrespective of whether we have walked through the Ayes or the Noes we all descend on the Members’ Bar in the same spirit of camaraderie as our founding members demonstrated 200 years ago.

However, 200 years of empathetic dialogue can only continue through the active participation of you: the members. I would encourage everyone to raise their hand to give a floor speech at a debate, or to challenge one of our individual speakers with a startling question and yet do so in a spirit that is willing to listen to the rebuttal.

In doing so, the Union succeeds in its fundamental goal: to platform students from the world’s best university to debate with some of the most influential people in the world. When that happens the light that the Union casts on any idea is as much an interrogation lamp as a spotlight.

This term I hope to provoke discussions on some of the most fundamental questions of our generation: how should gender self-identification be rectified with society and law; can war in pursuit of the extension of democracy be morally justified; and does class act as the defining feature in British politics? For certain speaker events I have replaced the typical Q&A with a mini-debate between speaker and member at the despatch boxes in an attempt to return debating to front and centre. Just as this spirit of debate has persisted for 200 years, certain issues for debate, such as whether it is better to be feared or loved, could have taken place at any point in the Union’s history. In contrast, debates on Modi’s India, net zero, and Iran’s future, as well as speaker events ranging from Michel Barnier to Mia Khalifa, reflect the political and cultural contours of today and provoke thought as to tomorrow’s

When people talk about freedom of speech, what is often left out is that for it to exist, there needs to be an open forum for ideas to be debated. In the context of the Union that can only happen when every member feels welcome to enter our Chamber. In that light my office is always open. I hope that every member can join me in celebration of our wonderful history and anticipation of what is to come.

Yours,

Matthew Dick Magdalen College president@oxford-union.org

Hannah Edwards Librarian Rosie Jacobs Treasurer

Welcome back! It’s been an honour to work on this termcard, and I hope it contains events which make you as excited as I am for the weeks ahead.

While my job as Librarian is more about interviewing speakers than organising books, it got me thinking about the role of the Library in the Union. Literature has always been crucial to spreading different viewpoints - nowhere will you find more conflicting ideas than in a library!

However, despite books sparking revolutions, building ideologies, and allowing people to access ideas long before the internet, they were still not perfect. People could read new arguments but there was no way to talk back.

Freedom of speech must go two ways - it is both the right to speak and the right to respond. The Union is unique in giving you a place to do both.

So whether you explore your freedom of speech by questioning a speaker or reading a controversial novel, I hope you enjoy this term with us. Never forget that the Library was the original debating chamber!

Hannah Edwards Lincoln College librarian@oxford-union.org

Welcome everyone. It’s an honour to serve as your Treasurer. Whilst I know that many of you have exams, I hope that you can still all find something to look forward to at the Union.

With our fascinating debate line-up, there will be something for everyone. Over the course of the term we will be debating geopolitics, climate change, and domestic policy. We will take a deep dive into Iran, India, and Britain. You can also expect a look in to science, history, and politics through our debate over the words of Machiavelli: “It is Better To Be Feared Than Loved.” The world-renowned speaker lineup we have for these will make them unmissable.

In this termcard you can see how your membership card will unlock treats from discounted meals to happy hour-priced cocktails. I am also excited to share exclusive discounts on taxi rides. But what’s better than a bargain? … something free. By delivering the best floor speech in one of our debates you can get your hands on prizes including three course meals and a free Union Ball ticket for this summer of love!

Please do attend Finance Committee to impact how your money gets spent. Mondays, 15.00, Goodman Library.

Enjoy the sun, the longer days, and Trinity Term 2023!

Rosie Jacobs St Anne’s College treasurer@oxford-union.org

Lewis Fisher Secretary

A warm welcome back to Oxford for the final term of the year.

Trinity is a term like no other: the weather is (for the most part) glorious but there is no denying that, for many of you, exams loom on the horizon. I invite you all to come and take a well-deserved break at the Union - be that enjoying a drink in our Bar and Beer Garden, or coming to one of our socials.

I hope you all feel there is something for you. You can celebrate the King’s Coronation in our garden, come to watch the Eurovision Live Final (taking place in my hometown of Liverpool, no less), or the FA Cup Finals. Our classic Pub Quiz returns, or how about a spot of wine and painting?

For one last pre-exam dance, keep an eye out for tickets to our Summer of Love Ball - the Union will be transformed with floral vibes, lots of fun activities, and of course, the very best of the counterculture era’s music.

For minutes of the Union’s various committees, don’t forget to check out the noticeboard and if you have any queries or concerns don’t hesitate to drop me an email.

I am proud to serve as your Secretary and hope you have a fantastic term.

Keep it real la

Lewis Fisher New College secretary@oxford-union.org

debates

The Oxford Union was established 200 years ago to protect and uphold the principle of free speech, and debating remains at the heart of the Society today. In that timeless tradition, debates are normally held on Thursday evenings during term, with the following timings:

19:45

Emergency Debate. Highlighting student speakers, our Emergency Debates seek to address topical issues, with motions being set weekly. Check our Facebook page and noticeboard on Monday evenings for the motion of the week.

20:30

Main Debate. With high profile speakers from around the world, our Main Debates address pressing questions on a variety of topics.

In the Main Debate, Points of Information (POIs) can be offered to speakers during their speeches. These can be put forward by raising your hand and stating “Point of Information.” The speaker may reject a POI. However, if they choose to accept, a statement must be given briefly in disagreement to the point which has been made. It is then the responsibility of the speaker to respond.

Moreover, before the two final speakers, the chair will look for several members to deliver two minute floor speeches on each side of the debate. There are exciting prizes on offer for the best floor speakers each week.

Members can also ballot to attend the pre-debate dinner with our guest speakers, the form for which will be released each week via email and on our Facebook page.

This House Believes That the Islamic Republic of Iran Can Reform

The Emergency Members’ Debate

This House Believes That Class Defines British Politics

This House Would Rather Be Feared Than Loved

This House Would Fight for Democracy, Individual Liberty and the Rule of Law Abroad

This House Believes That the Commercialisation of Pride has Done More Harm Than Good

This House Believes That Modi’s India is on the Right Path

This House Has No Faith in Net Zero Before 2035

20–21

This House

In 1979, the fall of monarchy gave rise to theocracy in Iran. In 2023, opposition to the Iranian regime has never been more visible. With the unprecedented length, extent, and backing of the most recent protests, now could very well be the time for radical change in the Islamic republic. However, as the security apparatus continues to back the Iranian state against its disorganised and divided opposition, it is perhaps just as likely that these protests are a repeat of the ineffectual noise the people of Iran have gotten used to. In this debate, we ask: is there hope for reform, or is revolution the only answer?

TBC Speaker TBC Speaker

3 WEEK

The Emergency Members’ Debate

On Thursday 11th May the President has called for a debate to be hosted in line with the traditional standards of debate at the Oxford Union. Two guest speakers will come to Oxford to debate a motion to be released shortly before the debate and chosen by the President to reflect an immediate debate that is happening in British politics. As media becomes more polarised, the Oxford Union remains as one of the last bastions of fair debate in the political landscape. Moreover, as a Members’ Debate, every member will have the chance to apply to give a paper speech in this debate, of which there will be numerous, before the two guest speakers. Details of the application process will be released during the term time, along with the speakers and debate motion. Mark your diaries and join in the debate!

PHOTO CREDIT © THE OXFORD UNION

Motion

This House

Believes That Class Defines British Politics

With Labour traditionally having promised to govern “for the many, not the few,” and the Tories having been seen as the party for the privileged, it seems British politics is divided by class. However, Brexit has weakened traditional bonds between class and party, while the importance of many other social cleavages further weakens the case for typical class voting. We ask, do we live in a country where your socio-economic background dictates your politics?

Proposition

The Rt. Hon. Emily Thornberry MP

Labour Party MP, who was twice Shadow Attorney General and previously Shadow Foreign Secretary from 2016 to 2020.

Opposition

Vas Blackwood

British actor, known for his roles in films such as Lock, Stock, And Two Smoking Barrels and on TV’s The Lenny Henry Show and Casualty

Simon Kuper

Author of the 2022 book Chums, exploring the connections that enabled a university network of Oxford Tories to dominate UK politics.

The Rt. Hon. The Earl of Carnarvon

The eighth Earl of Carnarvon and the real-life owner of Downton Abbey.

WEEK

Thursday 25th May 20:30

House

Would Rather Be Feared Than Loved This

“It is better to be feared than loved if one cannot be both.” When Machiavelli set out to define what made a good leader, he started a debate that remains relevant today. From football managers to army generals, school teachers to heads of state, maintaining reputation and respect from those you command is crucial. With fear and love such polar opposites, leaders have a choice to make. Which would you choose?

Proposition

Louise Mensch

Former Conservative MP for Corby who has reported allegations of ties between the Russian Federation and the Trump administration.

Opposition

The Rt. Hon. Prof. Baroness Susan Greenfield St Hilda’s and Lincoln

Neuroscientist and member of the House of Lords, formerly the Chancellor of Herriot Watt University and Director of the Royal Institution.

Marisa Merico

Author and daughter of one of Italy’s most notorious Mafia godfathers. In her book Mafia Princess, she writes both of the enduring love within the family and the fear outside of it.

Philosopher with a particular focus on ethics, White’s Professor of Moral Philosophy from 2014 to present, Fellow of Corpus Christi College.

The Rt. Rev’d Bishop Steven Croft

Worcester College

Prof. Jeff McMahan Corpus Christi 5

Bishop of Oxford, in the Church of England. Author of numerous books on topics of discipleship, mission and social justice.

Saturday 27th May 20:30

This House

Would Fight

for Democracy, Individual Liberty and the Rule of Law Abroad

In the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and with tensions between China and Taiwan on the rise, the burden on the West to fight for the values of NATO: liberal democracy; individual freedom; and the rule of law is mounting. However, many have argued that the current geopolitical situation was brought about by the arrogant interventions of the West. 20 years on from its invasion, Iraq still casts a long shadow. At stake is the question of whether western liberal values can, and should, be achieved by the illiberal means of war.

Proposition

Fawzia Koofi

Afghan politician, writer, and women’s rights and education activist; formerly a Member and Deputy Speaker of the Wolesi Jirga.

Opposition

Prof. Kishore Mahbubani

Singaporean diplomat who served as Singapore’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 1984 to 1989 and from 1998 to 2004. He was President of the United Nations Security Council between 2001 and 2002.

Urmas Reinsalu

Estonian politician, served as Minister for foreign affairs and Minister for defence. During this time he urged NATO to defend the Balkans from the threat in the East.

Amb.John Bolton

US Ambassador to the United Nations from 2005 to 2006. Subsequently, he was the US National Security Advisor under President Trump from 2018 to 2019.

Fawad Chaudhry

Pakistani politician who was Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting and previously Federal Minister for Science and Technology, between 2019 and 2022 in the governments of Imran Khan.

TBC Speaker

Thursday 1st June 20:30

This House

Believes That the Commercialisation of Pride has Done More Harm Than Good

Of late, many brands have put the Pride flag on product releases during the month of June. Do we dismiss this as ‘rainbow washing’ and profiteering, or must we recognise the positive effects of increased normalisation of the flag on the LGBTQIA+ community? During Pride Month this June, when the movement is more welcoming and accessible than ever, we weigh up whether this new norm has done more harm than good.

Proposition

Peter Tatchell

Progressive activist, prominent member of the former LGBT rights group OutRage!, and founder and Director of the Peter Tatchell Foundation.

Opposition

Saima Razzaq

British political activist and educator, co-chair of Supporting the Education of Equality in Schools (SEEDS), and Head of Diversity and Inclusion for Birmingham Pride. She was the first Muslim woman to lead a Pride parade in Britain.

Julia Shaw

Psychologist and criminologist, co-host of the true crime podcast Bad People and writer on the history and science of bisexuality.

TBC Speaker

Thursday 8th June 20:30

This House

Believes That Modi’s India is on the Right Path

Having been in office since 2014, Modi’s rule has catapulted India to greater prominence on the global stage. Many equate his policy agendas to robust economic growth, tackling corruption, and putting “India first.” On the other hand, Modi’s administration has been criticised for mishandling a growing discontent within the agricultural sector, instigating conflict between religious groups, and failing to revitalise the health and education sectors. Against the backdrop of ever-strong popularity among voters, it is imperative to discuss whether the BJP’s direction under Modi has been more polarising than unifying. The question then becomes: what (or who) is the right path for India as it surges ahead into the future?

Proposition

Opposition

Ashok Dhawale

Businesswoman and member of the House of Lords, previously the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for International Development from 2015 to 2016.

President of the All India Kisan Sabha, and member of the Polit Bureau of the Communist Party of India.

Akash Banerjee

Founder and host of The Deshbhakt, India’s first and largest political satire platform, reporting on Indian politics and promoting media freedom.

Prashant Bhushan

Lawyer in the Supreme Court of India, anti-corruption campaigner, and co-founder of the Aam Aadmi Party, and later of Swaraj Abhiyan.

TBC Speaker

Ajay Maken

Former Indian National Congress Party Member of the Lok Sabha and Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation from 2012 to 2013.

The Rt. Hon. Baroness Verma

WEEK

Thursday 15th June 20:30

This House

Has No Faith in Net Zero Before 2035

The pressure on world leaders to reduce carbon emissions is greater than ever. Many countries have plans to hit net zero, but questions arise as to their feasibility. Adopting a net zero solution requires radical change to our way of life which some argue we are not prepared for. Protests have arisen in Oxford after claims that net zero encroaches on civil liberties. Can we reconcile net zero with economic growth or must we look to an alternative economic model? What alternative solutions could we be pursuing?

Proposition

Phoebe Plummer

Climate activist and member of Just Stop Oil, known for climate demonstration including throwing soup at Van Gogh’s Sunflowers.

Professor and fellow at Lancaster University, who has published works on carbon footprinting such as How Bad Are Bananas? and There Is No Planet B

Prof. Mike Berners Lee

TBC Speaker

Floor Prizes

HAPPY CAKES

1 x Cupcake box

MAMMA MIA Jericho

3 course meal with wine for 2

Treasurer’s Treats

5%

OPERA CAFE

10%

MAMMA MIA Summertown

3 course meal with wine for 2

THE PERCH

3 course meal with wine for 2 THE PERCH

15%

NED’S NOODLE BAR

£40 voucher

20%

BALL TICKET

1 Oxford Union Ball ticket TOAD

1 bottle of gin

25%

ANGEL COCKTAILS, OXFORD WINE COMPANY, KITKEEPERS, ISCREAM GELATARIA, GAMESKEEPER, BURROWS AND HARE

001 TAXIS - 10% OFF ON THURSDAYS 17:00-5:00 TO ENSURE SAFE TRAVEL AFTER DEBATES. THIS DISCOUNT WILL ALSO RUN ON THE NIGHT OF THE BALL. PROMO CODE - UNIONBALL

30%

BRIDGE

Free entry for 4 and a bottle of spirit for a Thursday Night Bridge

OTHEROFFERS

HAPPY CAKES, BAREFOOT CAFE, MACSIMPLE MAMMA MIA PIZZERIA JERICHO*

*WHOLE TABLE MUST ORDER BETWEEN 17:00-19:00

DINE IN ONLY TUESDAY- THURSDAY

WHSMITH, BENITO’S - SUNDAY - FRIDAY , VICTORS (FOOD ONLY ON MONDAY - WEDNESDAY) BOOKINGS OF UP TO 4 PEOPLE ONLY

DIRTY BONES (25% FOOD ON THURSDAYS) AND 2 FOR 1 COCKTAILS , TOMMI’S BURGERS- 25% OFF WHEN ORDERED THROUGH THE APP FOR COLLECTION

BYRON BURGERS (SUNDAY - WEDNESDAY)

CÔTE BRASSERIE COMPLIMENTARY KIR ROYALE WHEN DINING

VARSITY CLUB

£5 OFF MAY DAY (UNLIMITED PROSECCO UNTIL 12:30, DRINKS DEALS ALL NIGHT) WITH CODE OUUPP735

special events

Since the Union was founded 200 years ago, it has served as a forum for the discussions that matter. Whilst Parliamentary-style debate can capture the imagination, it can at times overshadow topics where more intimate discussion is helpful. To that end, we have organised a range of special events in addition to our usual schedule of speakers and debates, including panels and direct head-to-heads.

WEEK

2 TBC

Centuries Old, Yet Centuries to Come: So, Who Will Be the Future of the Law, and How Will it Run?

6 Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: Ethnic Minority Women in Foreign Service Panel Inside North Korea This House: Would Pull the Lever

8

PHOTO CREDITS @ THE OXFORD UNION & GORDONBROWN © KEVINRUDD 001_11

2nd May – 17:30

Centuries Old, Yet Centuries to Come: So, Who Will Be the Future of the Law, and How Will it Run?

It has been over 750 years since the Statute of Marlborough was passed by Parliament in 1267, four chapters of which are still in force to this day. This astonishing insight into the historical power and legitimacy of the law here in the UK begs the question: how will the ancient strength of the law be tested, as never before, by the rising empire of modernisation? Technology and AI? The globalisation of media? How quickly will we see changes as a result of greater efficiency, and how will this affect our systems of justice?

As such an increasingly competitive career, it is more important than ever for us to assess what the future of the law might look like, and what will be most valuable and relevant to those wishing to pursue such a path.

2nd June – 20:00

Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: Ethnic Minority Women in Foreign Service Panel

Several challenges and barriers to entry and advancement have marked the history of ethnic minority women in the foreign services. It was not until the 1970s that women of colour began to make significant inroads into diplomacy. In recent years, there has been a greater effort to promote diversity and inclusion within the United States Department of State. Yet, despite these efforts, ethnic minority women in the foreign service continue to face challenges including bias, discrimination, and unequal opportunities for advancement. Addressing these issues and promoting greater diversity and inclusion in the foreign service is thus crucial to building a more equitable and effective diplomatic corps.

Adrian Cartwright

Senior Partner at Clifford Chance, since 2022. His speciality lies in equity capital markets, which he heads for the firms European branches

The Rt. Hon. Lord Justice Green

Judge of the Court of Appeal since 2018.

Current President of the Council of the Inns of Court, founded to promote excellence, collaboration, and inclusivity.

Caroline Haughey

OBE KC

Criminal barrister: she prosecuted the first ever case of modern slavery in the UK, and subsequently was involved in the drafting of the Modern Slavery Act.

PEXELS-EKATERINA-BOLOVTSOVA-6077123

Alexis Campbell KC

Family law expert, having specialised in divorce and matrimonial finance claims for over 30 years. She is joint head of chambers at 29 Bedford Row

High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam Amb. Bisa Williams

High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam is an accomplished diplomat and the first woman to hold the position of India’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Ambassador Bisa Williams is a diplomat who served as U.S. Ambassador to Niger and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs.

CHRISTINE-ROY-IR5MHI6RPG0-UNSPLASH

12th June – 20:00

Inside North Korea

A regime shrouded in mystery and secrecy, North Korea remains one of the most alarming anomalies in the global community. The restrictions on entry and media make it difficult to investigate the state of the nation but, from alleged mass human rights violations to military aggression, the country has displayed intensely hostile behaviour. In this panel we speak to defectors and experts to uncover what life actually looks like inside the dictatorship.

This House: Would Pull the Lever

Imagine a runaway trolley hurtling along a railway track towards five bystanders. You can do nothing, and the five will be killed; or you can pull a lever to divert the trolley onto a different track, killing one person. First postulated in 1967, the “trolley problem” invites us to consider whether it is ever ethical to sacrifice one for the good of many, and whether we are responsible for our inaction as well as our action. It continues to inform moral, ethical, and psychological debates today. In this debate, we ask simply: would we, and should we, pull the lever?

Robert Boynton:

Author of ‘The Invitation-Only Zone,’ a story of North Korea’s abduction programme. He directs the Literary Reportage programme at New York University.

Other Speakers

TBC

Prof. Roger Crisp

Professor of Moral Philosophy at Oxford. He is chairman of the Management Committee of the Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics.

Other Speakers

speakers

Each term we aim to host a diverse range of unique and influential speakers in a number of events. At every one of these events there will be an opportunity for the members to ask questions and at some, this will happen at the despatch box with an automatic right of reply, in the style of a debate. Free speech isn’t a one-way street and so we hope that you take the opportunity to express your own thoughts and shape the conversation.

The committee will be working hard throughout the term to add new speakers to this line-up – check the website, Facebook page, or the mailing list (which you can join via the website or through emailing enquiries@oxford-union.org) for the most up to date list of events. Make sure to look out for Facebook events where you can find the ballot to join the meet and greets with the speakers.

Please note that one of the challenges inherent in hosting high calibre speakers is that their schedules can change at short notice. In the rare situation in which this occurs, we will do everything we can to rearrange the event for a different date and ensure that members are given adequate notice of changes or cancellations.

His Excellency Iván Duque Márquez

Former President of Columbia

Following work at the IDB and the UN, Ivan Duque Marquez served as Columbia’s 33rd President from 2018 to 2022. During his tenure, he was known for his hands-on approach to Covid-19 with the “Prevention and Action” TV programme, his opposition to elements of the 2016 peace agreement with the FARC guerrilla group, and his central focus on the War on Drugs. He now works as a distinguished fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center think tank in Washington D.C.

week 1 / 26th April 20:00

Stella Assange

Lawyer and Human Rights Activist

A human rights lawyer by training, Stella Assange is best known for advocating for the release of her husband, Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, from continued captivity. She initially met him in 2011 when she was part of the legal team that helped prevent his extradition to Sweden. She continued to represent him throughout his incarceration in the Ecuadorian embassy and then in HMP Belmarsh, most recently depicted - along with the approval of his extradition to the US - in the 2021 documentary, Ithaka.

week 1 /

28th April 18:00-20:00 – Screening of Ithaka

Q&A 20:00

Thomas Skinner

Businessman and Influencer

Thomas Skinner first came to fame as a contestant on The Apprentice, where he became known both for his plans to make a business out of fluffy pillows and for his catchphrase, “bosh”; he made it to the competition’s ninth week. Since then, he has appeared on Celebrity MasterChef, and has gained notoriety for his cooking videos on Twitter, where he makes overly large and unusual breakfasts, and, more recently, for his new song, also called “BOSH.”

week 2 /

1st May 20:00

Nazanin Boniadi

Actress and Iran Activist

Nazanin Boniadi is an Iranian-British actress, activist, and spokesperson for the Bahá’í International Community. She has been involved in various humanitarian causes, including advocating for women’s rights, religious freedom, and human rights in Iran. Boniadi’s advocacy work has earned her recognition from the United Nations and Amnesty International. Her extensive acting career includes roles in hit TV shows and films such as Homeland, Ben-Hur, and How I Met Your Mother.

week 2 /

2nd May – 20:00

Toomas Ilves

Former President of Estonia

Toomas Hendrik Ilves served as President of Estonia from 2006 to 2016. Born to Estonian refugees in the United States, Ilves began his career as an Estonian ambassador, before eventually taking up the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs. In 2004, Ilves negotiated Estonia’s admittance to the European Union and continued to advocate for integration with the EU and NATO throughout his time as President. Ilves continues to advocate for a stronger NATO presence within the Baltic nations.

week 2 / 3rd May – 17:00

Mia Khalifa

Public figure and influencer

Mia Khalifa was born and raised in Lebanon, moving to America in 2001. After almost a decade, Mia has transitioned to become a modern public figure and influencer, rated the number one emerging influencer of 2022 by Lefty. After speaking out a few years ago regarding her experience with contractual exploitation in the adult film industry, Khalifa has worked to educate women about the dangers of exploitation in the field, and will be taking to the stage to talk about boundaries, both personal and professionaL.

week 2 / 3rd May – 20:00

Sir Derek Jacobi OBE

Actor

One of the most prominent actors of his generation, Sir Derek’s many accolades include two Olivier Awards, two Emmys, two SAG awards, a BAFTA, and a Tony. He is best known for his roles in Othello (1965), Gladiator, and Murder on the Orient Express. His impressive acting resume has extended into numerous Shakespearean theatre productions, such as Hamlet, Macbeth, and King Lear. He was also one of the first people in the UK to register a civil partnership.

week 3 /

8th May – 17:00

Amb. Yoon Yeo-Cheol

South Korea’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom

Having begun his diplomatic career in 1985, Yoon YeoCheol first served in South Korea’s overseas missions to the US and Cote D’Ivoire. In 2012 he became Chief of Protocol at the UN as an assistant to Secretary General Ban Ki-moon; he held a similar position at the South Korean Presidential Office in 2018. After four years as his country’s top diplomat in Egypt, in 2022 he was named the South Korean ambassador to the UK, a position he currently holds.

week 4 / 15th May – 17:00

Omar Suleiman

Prof. of Islamic Studies and Writer

Omar Suleiman is a Muslim scholar and activist. One of CNN’s Top 25 Muslim American Change-Makers, Suleiman was recognized by the Antiracist Research and Policy Center of American University as an honoree to best embody the abolitionist commitment to social change. This and other accolades, recognise his work surrounding immigration reform, disability inclusivity, and police brutality. Currently the Resident Scholar of the Valley Ranch Islamic Center, Suleiman works to educate regarding Islamic values which may be used in the pursuit of liberation.

week 4 / 15th May – 20:00

Theodore Olson

42nd Solicitor General of the United States

A founding member of the Federalist Society, Theodore Olson first worked as an Assistant Attorney General in the Reagan administration, and later served as the US Solicitor General under George W. Bush. After this, he went on to take numerous high-profile cases, such as a Perry v. Schwarzenegger (a challenge to a California state amendment banning same-sex marriage) - which earned him a spot in Time 100’s greatest thinkers - as well as representing Apple in their case against the FBI.

week 4 / 17th May – 20:00

Stormy Daniels

Adult Film Star and Director

Stormy Daniels is a former award-winning adult actress and screenwriter, and the primary plaintiff in the case against exPresident Donald Trump. She alleged sexual relations with the former President, followed by a sum of $130,000 in ‘hush money,’ from Trump and his lawyer, Michael Cohen. Since, Daniels has featured in and hosted a variety of reality television series including ‘The Surreal Life’ and ‘For The Love of DILFs,’ as well as published a tell-all entitled ‘Full Disclosure’

week 5 / 24th May – 20:00

John Bradley

John Bradley is a prominent actor with a career spanning over a decade, best known for his portrayal of Samwell Tarly across all eight seasons of Game of Thrones. After graduating with his BA in Acting from the Manchester School of Theater, Bradley featured in a variety of productions from Traders, Gimsby, and American Satan to Patient Zero, Marry Me, and recently starring in the film Moonfall

week 5 /

26th May – 20:00

Prof. Joseph Nye

Distinguished Political Theorist

Exeter College

Address: “Great Power Competition Today”. Joseph Nye is an American political scientist and international relations. His pioneering work on “soft power” - the ability to influence others through attraction rather than coercion - has reshaped the way we think about international relations. Recently, Nye has focused on the concept of “great power competition,” examining how the competition between major powers such as the US, China, and Russia shapes global politics, which is the topic of his address.

week 6 /

29th May – 17:00

Actor

Kathleen Stock OBE

Gender-Critical Feminist Philosopher

Exeter College

Kathleen Stock is a philosopher, writer and formerly a professor at the University of Sussex, until she resigned in October 2021 following attacks on her by colleagues as well as a student campaign. She has spoken against proposed changes to the Gender Recognition Act, which would allow gender self-identification without a medical diagnosis. In her book, Material Girls, she defends the notion that biological sex is real and not a continuum.

week 6 / 30th May – 17:00

Bugzy Malone

Rapper and Actor

Bugzy Malone is a rapper and songwriter, accredited as one of the key artists to the UK’s ‘grime revival’ and the first nationally commercially successful grime artist from Manchester. Since his debut mixtape SwaggaMan in 2010, Malone has released three albums, with King of the North reaching No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart. In 2019, Bugzy featured in his first film, The Gentlemen, and once again took up acting in the recently released Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre.

week 6 / 29th May – 20:00

Amb. Markus Leitner

Switzerland’s Ambassador to the UK

Markus Leitner is the current Swiss ambassador to the UK, having previously served in the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs and worked in the private banking sector. Credited as a leader in Switzerland’s transition away from the blood diamond industry, Leitner has previously served as the Swiss Ambassador to Egypt and Iran, as well as serving in both South Africa and Chile.

week 6 / 31st May – 17:00

Ben Houchen Mayor of the Tees Valley

Ben Houchen has served as the Conservative Mayor of Tees Valley since 2017. Having formed the first mayoral development corporation outside of London, Houchen has announced the corporation’s aspiration of creating 20,000 new jobs and producing of £1 billion per annum. Houchen is best known for his reclamation of Teesside International Airport, previously Durham Tees Valley Airport, by the Tees Valley local government.

week 6 /

2nd June – 17:00

Kelly Hsieh

Taiwan’s Representative to the UK

Kelly Hsieh is a Taiwanese politician who has served as Representative to the UK for Taiwan since July 2020. Prior to his appointment, he was Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the ROC between 2018 and 2020. He has also served as Taiwan’s Representative to Thailand, from 2015 to 2017, and to Russia from 2017 to 2018.

week 7 / 5th June – 17:00

Vinai Venkatesham CEO of Arsenal

After graduating from Oxford, Vinai Venkatesham started his career in energy trading and then worked as a management consultant at Deloitte. After working on the London 2012 summer Olympic Games, Vinai Venkatesham was the chief commercial officer of Arsenal. During this time he significantly increased the club’s commercial revenue growth, earning him a promotion to Managing Director in 2018. In 2020, he took over from Ivan Gazidis as the club’s Chief Executive.

week 7 / 6th June – 17:00

Vivian Anderson MBE

First black footballer to play for England

The first black and second non-white player for England’s national football team, Vivian (“Viv”) Anderson made his international debut in the friendly against Czechoslovakia in 1978. He also played for numerous Premier League teams, from Arsenal to Manchester United, and was the first player Alex Ferguson signed after taking over as manager. Anderson later became an assistant manager to Middlesborough, finally retiring in 2001; he was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame only three years later.

week 7 / 6th June – 20:00

Michel Barnier

Former EU Brexit Negotiator

Michel Barnier is a French politician known for his leadership within the European Commission, presidential candidacy in the French 2022 election, and position as chief negotiator on behalf of the European Commission during Brexit. Selected for the negotiations for his expertise, Barnier has an extensive background in European politics. Having served as special advisor to President Barroso of the European Commission, Head of the UK Task Force, and European Commissioner for Internal Market and Services, Barnier has been a prominent voice both within France and Europe as a whole.

week 7 / 7th June 17:00

Anthony Scaramucci

Former White House Director of Communications

Originally a Goldman Sachs banker, Anthony Scaramucci had a successful career in private equity, and was in 2016 listed among Worth’s The 100 Most Powerful People in Global Finance. Though himself a Democrat, he in 2016 joined the Trump campaign’s finance committee. In 2017 he was appointed the new White House Communications Director but, only 11 days into the job, was fired after a journalist leaked his criticisms of the administration. He has since been vocal in his criticism of Donald Trump.

week 7 /

7th June – 20:00

David Baddiel

Comedian, presenter, screenwriter, and author

Starting out in the Cambridge Footlights, David Baddiel has enjoyed a long and successful career in comedy. Examples of his work include writing for Spitting Image and the critically-acclaimed show My Family: Not the Sitcom, which transferred to the West End and was nominated for an Olivier Award. Baddiel has also authored many successful novels, such as the children’s books The Parent Agency and The Taylor TurboChaser. He has been no less prolific in his TV appearances, most notably in Little Britain and Horrible Histories

.

week 7 / 9th June – 20:00

Neil Warnock

Football Manager

Neil Warnock is a highly regarded English football manager. He has managed a total of 16 professional clubs in his career, including Sheffield United, Crystal Palace, QPR, and Leeds United. Known for his passionate and outspoken style, Warnock has earned a reputation as a successful motivator and master tactician. He holds the record for most promotions in English football, and is widely respected as one of the most experienced and successful managers in English football history.

week 8 / 13th June – 20:00

We are pleased to promote the work of ‘The Porch Day Centre,’ located in East Oxford, which provides poverty relief by providing a stepping stone to those who are homeless or vulnerably housed. We encourage our members to explore volunteering opportunities for the long vacation or for later in 2023.

To find out more please email: guy@theporch.org.uk

socials

As well as the large array of speaker events and debates on offer, this Trinity the Union has one of the busiest and brightest social calendars in Oxford. From the Coronation Party to FA Cup Finals viewings, we hope that there is something for everyone to celebrate. For one last pre-exam dance, keep an eye out for tickets to our Summer of Love Ball - the Union will be transformed with floral vibes, lots of fun activities and, of course, the very best of the counterculture era’s music.

For any queries, please contact the Secretary, at secretary@oxford-union.org.

information

guest policy

Guest Policy

Members are allowed to bring up to three guests to an event, as long as:

1. The guest is not themselves eligible for membership of the Oxford Union.

2. The guest pays a £12.50 fee on the door.

3. All members who wish to attend the event have already taken their seats.

Events will be made exclusive to members when there is a security risk.

Given (3) above, it is very unlikely that there will be space for guests at an extremely popular event.

competitive debating

Debating at the Union is not reserved for Thursday nights. The Union’s competitive debating squad is the largest in Europe and one of the most successful in the world; in the last few years our teams have won both the World and European Universities’ Debating Championships. Oxford Debating offers something for every level, from total novices to world champions.

For those who have never debated before, Beginners’ Workshops run on Monday evenings at the Union and are open to all Oxford and Brookes students, regardless of membership. These workshops consist of a presentation improving debating skills, followed by practice debates judged by some of the world’s most experienced debaters.

For those with more experience, Intermediate and Advanced squads run on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at the Union, where coaches provide one-on-one development and strengthening programmes. These squads are often followed by well-attended socials.

We fully fund all teams to attend competitions nationally and internationally, online or in person; this means debating is one of the best ways to recoup your membership fee. We host several competitions, most notably the Oxford IV, one of the largest debating competitions in Europe, and Oxford Schools, the largest schools debating competition in the world. Involvement

committees

The affairs of the Society are managed by a number of committees, each of which meet in person throughout the term. These committees work for you, the members, so please do not hesitate to email the respective chairs for information on how to attend these meetings.

STANDING COMMITTEE

ACCESS COMMITTEE

BAR STRATEGY COMMITTEE

with these competitions looks great on your CV and is a low-commitment way to get involved in our organisational side. We run termly internal tournaments for those wanting to dip a toe into the world of competitive debating at a low level of commitment.

We recommend signing up to our mailing list for weekly updates, including information on weekly training and how to attend tournaments.

To do so, send a blank email to : debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac.uk, then follow the instructions on the automated reply to subscribe. You may also want to like the Oxford Debating Facebook page and join the Oxford Debaters Facebook group.

If you have any questions or want to sign up for workshops or Squads, please contact the Debate Selection Committee at ivselections@googlemail.com.

Chair - Matthew Dick The President president@oxford-union.org

The Society’s governing body. Standing Committee makes the Union’s most important decisions and recommends rules changes to the House.

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Chair - Rosie Jacobs Treasurer Treasurer@oxford-union.org

Finance Committee scrutinises the Union’s finances and reports its findings to Standing Committee.

Chair - Jake Dibden

Senior Access Officer

Access.officer@oxford-union.org

Access Committee is responsible for promoting the inclusion of under-represented groups by planning events and suggesting changes.

Chair - Lewis Fisher Secretary

Bar Strategy Committee oversees the management of the Members’ Bar and makes decisions regarding its stock, budgets, and furnishings.

LIBRARY COMMITTEE

Chair - Hannah Edwards Librarian

Library Committee is responsible for the management of the Society’s library, purchasing books for the collection, and withdrawing old books, as well as making recommendations for the running of the library.

CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

Chair - Abbie Bacon CCC ccc@oxford-union.org

Consultative Committee is comprised of all members of the Society and gives you the opportunity to ask the officers of the Union questions and stay up-to-date on the running of the Union’s events.

DEBATE SELECTION COMMITTEE

Chair - David Logan CDSC cdsc@oxford-union.org

Debate Selection Committee manages the Union’s competitive debating wing, arranging training and competitions.

the library

Stocked with over 60,000 books, the Union’s library facilities are extensive, spacious, and beautiful. Until 1897, the Old Library was the debating chamber of the Union. On its walls are some of the world’s most famous Pre-Raphaelite murals depicting scenes from Arthurian legend, painted by artists including Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Morris. The adjoining Poetry Room is a hidden gem –a perfect space for silent, independent study.

The Goodman Library and Gladstone Room are open spaces available for use from any member during our open hours and provide a secluded study space in a historic atmosphere.

Termtime opening hours are Mon-Fri 09:30-19:00 Sat 11:00-17:00.

Please email library@oxford-union.org with any questions.

the members bar

Few, if any, places in Oxford combine the comfort and affordability of our Members’ Bar. Perfect for a quiet coffee, a light lunch, or a pint with some friends, it is a place where members and their guests can enjoy high quality food and drink at student prices, with a 25% members-only discount.

The Bar is decorated with memorabilia from past guests and it is often frequented by our speakers before or after a talk. Following each main debate after everyone has left the Chamber, the President will read out the result of the vote in the Bar.

Our House Manager would be happy to hear from members with questions and suggestions. Please contact: bar@oxford-union.org

Alternatively, contact the Secretary about attending Bar Strategy Committee!

OPENING HOURS

Our Lunch Menu is served:

Monday to Saturday 11:30 -14:30

Breakfast options are served:

Monday to Saturday 10:00 -12:00

The Oxford Union is dedicated to ensuring that it is as accessible as possible for all of our members. If you ever have any questions regarding the accessibility of an event or the Union more generally, please reach out to our Senior Access Officer, Jake Dibden at access.officer@oxfordunion.org. You can also raise thoughts and suggestions at Access Committee, which meets at 13:00 on Thursdays in Full Term. Accessibility Pass Policy and Event Access

Any member who has accessibility requirements is entitled to request reasonable adjustments. Our Accessibility Pass Policy is available on the Rules and Policies section of our website with a PDF version available on request.

how to get involved

Ask Questions

The Union remains resolute in its commitment to giving members the opportunity to engage with and challenge its speakers. At each of our talks, members will have the chance to ask questions live during the event. We encourage you to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

Run for Election

appointees also assist in inviting speakers and arranging debates over the vacation, typically completing ‘vacation days’ in Oxford.

For any specific accessibility queries regarding an event, please contact the House Manager at: bar@oxford-union.org and the CCC, Abbie Bacon, at ccc@oxford-union.org.

We can ensure that there is space for a wheelchair or provisions made for a guide dog or make any other reasonable adjustments necessary to enable members to make the most of their membership.

There is a hearing aid loop in the chamber and, should you wish to use it, switch your hearing aid to ‘T.’

Each term, elections are held for Committee and Officer positions on Friday of 7th Week. Candidates who are successful in these elections assist in inviting speakers and arranging debates for the following term, undertaking a range of responsibilities.

Throughout the term, information will be released about how to run for election and how to vote. If you have any questions regarding the running of the Society’s election, please email the Returning Officer at ro@oxford-union.org for more comprehensive details.

Apply for Appointed Committee Apply for Appointed Committee

A number of positions on Oxford Union Committees are appointed, including Press, Sponsorship, and Equalities Officers. All

Applications for Michaelmas Term’s appointed positions will open in 5th Week, and will be advertised on the Oxford Union Facebook page and mailing list. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis. Please contact the President-Elect, Disha Hegde, at president-elect@oxford-union.org if you have any questions or would like to get involved.

Join a Committee

All committee meetings are open to members to attend and observe. If you are interested in attending or becoming a member of any of these committees, simply email the relevant committee chair (detailed overleaf), to find out more.

President’s Open Hours

The President, Matthew Dick, will be hosting weekly open hours where members can come and ask any questions they have. This will run on Fridays from 11:00 - 13:00 in the President’s Office.

Ebrahim

OFFICERS

Librarian

APPOINTED OFFICIALS & STAFF

Chief of Staff

Jennifer Heath Oriel College

Director of Press

Santiago Bedoya

Regent’s Park College

Director of Communications

Amy Ellis Winter Christ Church

STANDING COMMITTEE

SECRETARY’S COMMITTEE

Deputy Director of Press

Ciara Rushton Magdalen College

Returning OfficerKeelan Daye

Director of ResearchOllie Crawford

Director of SponsorshipChristine Kerrol Chung

Director of MediaSarp Ozdemir

Communities’ OfficerBarney James Wakefield

Disability OfficerJames Forsdyke

Senior Welfare Officer

Beau Boka-Batesa Lincoln College

Senior Access Officer

Jake Dibden Trinity College

Ethnic Minority Officer -

Misha Mian

Graduate Officer -

Insaf Bakeer Markar

International OfficerTrisha Purnaiya

LGBTQIA+ Officer -

Fallon O’Neill

Socioeconomic Officer -

Theo Adler-Williams

Permanent & Temporary Membership OfficerLiam Edwards

Development Officer

Chloe Glynn St Anne’s

STAFF

The BursarMark Herbert

Deputy BursarRichard Wood

Librarian-in-ChargeThomas Corrick

Events ManagerJoanne Morgan

Director of Development & Communications -

Laura Lvov

Termcard Graphic Designer - Danielle Blyde - https://vavoom.co.uk

Junior Access Officer Bronwen Price St Hugh’s College

Junior Welfare OfficerCindy Yu

Women & Gender

Minorities OfficerCharlotte Fallon

Press & Sponsorship Officers -

Amelia Artemis Betts, Arya Kumar, Sultan Khokhar, Alex McGovern

Patrick Wol-Carty, Fiona Townsley

Guest Liaison Officers -

Silvan Bennett-Schaar, Itsie Oyedeji, Alex Duckworth

Amelia Seaman

TRUSTEES

Senior LibrarianDr Tim Myatt

Senior TreasurerSarah Beaver

The Hon. Peter Jay Dr Jeya Wilson

Osman Mowafy St Edmund Hall

Louis Wilson Christ Church Zariel Oak St Hugh’s College

Chloe Davis Pembroke College

Izzy Horrocks-Taylor Balliol College

Leo Buckley Trinity College

Christopher Collins Corpus Christi College

Aryan Dhanwani Oriel College

Julia Maranhao-Wong St Anne’s College

Lilian Chen Oriel College Hugo Roma Wilson Trinity College

Finley Armstrong Regent’s Park College

Ben Gardner Balliol College

Mikaeel Toosy Exeter College

Anita Okunde Magdalen College

Viraansh Bhanushali St Peter’s College

Alex Elliott Brasenose College

The President Matthew Dick Magdalen College

Hannah Edwards Lincoln College

Treasurer

Rosie Jacobs St Anne’s College

President-Elect

Disha Hegde St John’s College

Treasurer-Elect Tom Elliott New College

CCC Abigail Bacon Brasenose College

Secretary Lewis Fisher New College

thanks

First and foremost, I would like to thank my entire committee. To say I couldn’t have done this without them would be the greatest understatement. In truth, this term would be nothing without the hard work, creativity, and good humour that everyone has poured into our work during the vacation. Likewise to the staff for their enduring support and patience that transcends the termly rotation of presidents. There are however, a few individuals who it would be wrong to not give a special thank you to.

To Hannah, I will be eternally bemused by the support and faith that you have shown to me. You epitomise the role as Librarian on the right hand of the President, but I am most grateful of the fact that you have been at my right hand for far far more than the rules and standings orders require you.

To Rosie for always being ready to tell me I am wrong and yet, never making me feel like a fool. Your jokes ensure that my head will in fact not be so big as to get stuck in the door frame and at so many points over the last year spending time with you has been one of the most refreshing things in my life.

To Lewis for being the first person to make me truly believe I could be President. Talking to you about the state of the world makes the hours of the tutorials I have missed hacking worth it. I have needed your wise words of moral intervention on many occasions and I am sure I will continue to long after this term.

To Abi and Jenny for fixing problems before I had even realised they existed through your total dedication to your roles.

To #FULFIL for running with me. Particularly to Tom for your consistent level headed clarity of thought. To Disha for always having my back. I am

Matthew Dick The President

so excited for your term - you deserve it more than anyone.

Thank you to everyone who perhaps unknowingly helped me along the way. To Anjali for picking me out. To Alex for helping me figure out why I wanted to be in the Union. To Arjun for advice over a real tennis court and Eden for encouraging me to always try to find the moral (and legal) solution.

To Molly for being the first president I served under and never treating me as ‘seccie 9.’ To Charlie for being the last, for sharing so much more than just the Union with me.

I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t make friends along the way. To Liberty - the highlight of my first two terms was becoming your friend and I am so devastated that you are 6,000 miles away. To Jenny and Chaslet for making me have fun in low moments and to Adya, Darian, and Emma for (in vastly different ways) reminding me that the Union is not everything in life.

To Milo for being my spin doctor. To Theo and Kavish for long-distance support. To Artemis and Turner and particularly Annabel for dealing with my self-centredness and for continuing to be the pinnacle of selflessness.

To Chloe for being by my side through all of my ups and downs last term. You are the most generous person I know and I can’t wait to see where life takes you.

Most of all to Josh for being mad (or desperate) enough to agree to live with me, being the most loyal friend I could ever wish for and brave enough to tell me the truth I don’t always want to hear.