Oxford Union Trinity Term 2024

the OXFORD UNION

TRINITY TERM 2024

President’s Welcome

Dear Members,

Welcome to the Trinity Term 2024. It is an honour to present this term card to you all, and I sincerely hope it can convince you to leave the comfort of your college garden or bar and take a stroll down to St Michael’s Street.

The beginning of every term presents a myriad of opportunities. As the Society continues in the first year after our bicentenary, I have been reflecting not only on its illustrious history, but also what the future may hold for the Oxford Union.

Whilst many of our greatest traditions remain constant, the Union must also navigate the ever-changing nature of the modern world. As threats to free speech continue to become more commonplace, and society grapples with the challenges of polarisation, the role of the Oxford Union in upholding its founding values is even more crucial. These values, of promoting free debate amongst students, standing up for free speech, and promoting education, have defined our history and we have a responsibility to ensure they continue to guide our future. The opportunity to hear from people with whom you may passionately disagree is one that must not be taken for granted.

This is why I first got involved with the Oxford Union and over the past year it has been an honour to be a part of the Society. To hold the position of President is a tremendous privilege and has served to reinforce my commitment to fostering an environment in which all those who share our values are welcome.

As members of the most famous debating society in the world, we should all seek to embody these values, not only within the halls of The Oxford Union, but also in our own lives. There is perhaps

Louis Wilson The President

no other time in life, where you will have the possibility of engaging with so many different opinions and in so many interesting conversations. I therefore encourage you all to seize every opportunity available to you and make the most of your membership. This term, we have endeavoured to put on a range of events to ensure everyone can find something for them.

In our debates, we question whether populism is a threat to democracy, the future of the European Union and commemorate the Union’s military heritage with a debate to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Normandy Landings. In our individual events, you can challenge Nancy Pelosi on American intervention in the Middle East, question Lord Sewell on his strategies for eradicating inequality, or listen to José Mourinho’s insights on management. This being exam season we have also made sure to put together some socials to drag you away from revision, from classic pub quizzes to the return of our summer Ball.

It is an honour to be leading the Society at the end of this academic year, and I hope you enjoy all the events we have put on in service of you, the members. I wish you all a happy Trinity Term.

Yours,

Louis

Louis Wilson Christ Church president@oxford-union.org

As we look to a thrilling Trinity Term ahead, I am honoured to be serving as your Librarian, and equally as proud to have helped shape this termcard which promises for a lively lineup!

This summer will mark my sixth term involved with the Union’s committee, but it is without a doubt the one I am most excited for. As your Librarian, it is primarily my role to deliver our individual speaker interviews and special events, of which this term we have an awesome ensemble: from US politicians to British comedians, and from international ambassadors to world famous football managers. Might we even say, ‘something for everyone’?

This term also witnesses the reintroduction of the Union’s very own Debate Magazine! It has been wonderful to see the scope and passion of submissions we have received from the members over the vac, and I have enjoyed working on this opportunity to collaborate with you and share your ideas. Debate has always been this society’s central trade, and it is my hope that the magazine will open up even more perspectives for discussion. Physical copies of the magazine can be found in the Library foyer, so be sure to seek them out!

If you have any questions about our upcoming speaker events, or indeed our lovely Library, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line.

With best wishes,

Isabelle Horrocks-Taylor Balliol College

librarian@oxford-union.org

Robert McGlone

Isabelle Horrocks-Taylor Librarian Treasurer

I hope you all enjoyed the Easter holiday.

It really is the most incredible honour for me to serve as your Treasurer. By far, Trinity is the best of the Oxford terms, and we have an absolutely fantastic series of events planned for the next eight weeks. Whether this is your first term of membership or your final term studying here, there really is something in this term card for everyone, be it our Summer Ball and piano concerts, debates on topics ranging from the British military to climate policy or addresses from heads of state, world renowned athletes and galactic space lords.

For those interested in the monetary dealings of the Society, Finance Committee meets every Monday of term time at 15:00 in the Goodman, and anyone is more than welcome to attend or apply to become a member of the committee. Finally, I am delighted to announce that we have secured a series of discounts and benefits for members of the Union over the vac, and these can be found in full further in the term card under ‘Treasurer’s Treats’.

I hope you have a wonderful Trinity, and I look forward to seeing you around this term!

Robert McGlone St John’s College treasurer@oxford-union.org

A very warm welcome back to Oxford!

As your Secretary, I have worked on an exciting line-up of events, awaiting the sunny Oxford days. Whilst I know that many of us have exams (absolutely not looking forward to Prelims), I hope that you can all still find something to look forward to at the Union.

From festivities for Holi and Cinco de Mayo, to a dazzling Fashion Fair and a Beer Garden, I believe our upcoming social calendar has something for everyone! You especially wouldn’t want to miss out on our Piano Concert, alongside some exclusive socials like the Women’s Paint and Wine and the Graduates’ Pimms and Croquet socials.

Be sure to mark your calendars for the pièce de résistance: the Midsummer Night’s Dream Ball. On the 17th of May, from sunset till midnight, expect a whimsical ambiance complete with bouncy castles, lively games, classical orchestra and pop music, as the Union will be transformed into a realm of fairytale.

I am extremely honoured and grateful to serve as your Secretary, and I look forward to seeing everyone at our events. Here’s to a fun Trinity!

Stay bad,

Rachel Haddad Moskalenko Balliol College secretary@oxford-union.org

Rachel Haddad Moskalenko Secretary

History of the Union

In 1823, a group of students met in secret to discuss important topics of the day, such as religion, which were prohibited by the University of Oxford. Over the last 200 years this has blossomed into the Oxford Union we see today; the world’s most famous debating society and in the words of Harold Macmillan (Librarian, Michaelmas 1914) “the last bastion of free speech in the Western World”.

The Oxford Union is at heart a student debating society, and throughout our history, we have been committed to the axiom that debate is crucial to the pursuit of truth and free discussion; the central principle upon which the Oxford Union was founded. Debate remains our primary purpose and for two centuries students have gathered together in our chamber to grapple with the issues of the day, tussle with the meaning of the past, and wrestle over their visions of the future. In the first year after our bicentenary, at the start of what will hopefully be another prosperous 200 years, it is fitting to look back on our history, at the debates which have defined us as a society.

Perhaps our most famous debate was held in 1933, with the motion titled “This House will in no circumstances fight for its King and Country.” It passed with a comfortable majority, later being referred to as “the Oxford pledge”. Yet it is this debate’s aftermath which has cemented its place in history. The national media seized upon the results, with reports from The Times, The Daily Telegraph, Daily Mail and Daily Express. 275 white feathers, one for each Aye vote, were later delivered to the Union and at the following debate, some twenty members seized the offending minutes and burnt them. Winston Churchill described the outcome of the debate as “that abject, squalid, shameless avowal”

whilst his son Randolph sought to have it struck from the Union’s records. However, this motion suffered a resounding defeat and Randolph would leave the chamber chaperoned by a police escort; the right to free speech had won the day.

Our next debate of national significance came in 1964, with the visit of Malcolm X. The motion “This House Believes Extremism in Defence of Liberty is no Vice; Moderation in the Pursuit of Justice is no Virtue” was taken almost word for word from the acceptance speech of American presidential candidate Barry Goldwater, at the Republican National convention of that year. After a speech from the President, Eric Anthony Abrahams, who later became the first black television presenter for the BBC, Malcom X took to the floor. What followed was an impassioned speech with his famous utterance: “We are not human beings unless we band together and do whatever, however, whenever is necessary to see that our lives and property are protected”. Despite this, the motion was defeated. In 2015 it would again be put before the house to mark the 50th anniversary of Malcom X’s address, with political activist Angela Davis speaking in favour.

In 1975, the Union debated the motion “This House Would Say Yes to Europe”, with former prime minister Sir Edward Heath, leader of the Liberal Party Jeremy Thorpe, and cabinet ministers Baroness Castle and Peter Shore all in attendance. The debate was broadcast live on BBC 1, becoming part of the national media coverage in the lead up to the referendum on whether Britain should remain in the European Economic Community, the predecessor to the EU. The motion passed with a significant majority and the debate reportedly played a role in swaying public opinion on the referendum.

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

20:30

Emergency Debate. Featuring only 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.

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.

Proposition

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi

52nd Speaker of the House of Representatives and Democrat politician.

Oli Dugmore

The Head of News and Politics at JOE Media, tech entrepreneur and content strategist.

This House Believes Populism is a Threat to Democracy

In an era where populism has been on the rise, there is a question about whether the further expansion of populism will be a threat to democracy as we know it. Critics of right-wing populism have accused it of being a veil to hide discriminatory views that could be a hindrance to democracy. However, supporters argue that populism serves as a tool for democratic renewal and therefore should be considered as a force for improving democracy, not a threat.

Opposition

James Schneider

Co-Founder of Momentum and former Director of Strategic Communications for The Rt Hon Jeremy Corbyn MP.

Winston Marshall

Musician, formerly of Mumford & Sons, and host of “Marshall Matters” podcast for The Spectator.

Proposition

Professor Noel Healy

Professor at Salem State University, focusing on the socio-political impacts of climate change.

TBC Speaker

This House Believes International Climate Policy is Neo-Imperialist

To combat the climate crisis, international organisations have introduced proposals to reduce emissions and minimise ecological damage. Critics argue that these policies place a disproportionate burden on those living in developing states, who are being asked to make economic sacrifices that Western states were never forced to make. Others counter that the West is paying its fair share in climate reparations, and that debating questions of historical fairness in the face of a global emergency will cause incalculable human suffering.

Opposition

TBC Speaker

TBC Speaker

Proposition

His Excellency Ambassador Ferenc Kumin of Hungary

Hungarian Ambassador to the United Kingdom.

His Excellency Ambassador Karel Van Oosterom of The Netherlands

Dutch Ambassador to the United Kingdom.

This House Believes The EU Has a Bright Future

The European Union remains deeply polarising. Critics claim that such an ambitious supranational project is doomed to failure, that the constituent member states’ interests are incompatible and that the Byzantine structure of the institution makes it too rigid to effectively handle the challenges of the modern world. However, many others maintain that, for decades, it has played a critical role in allowing Europe to remain peaceful and economically prosperous and can continue to do so for decades to come.

Opposition

The Rt Hon. Mark Francois MP

Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford, Chair of the European Research Group.

TBC Speaker

THURSDAY 16 TH MAY 20.30

Proposition

Graham Stringer MP

Labour MP for Blackley & Broughton, former Leader of Manchester City Council.

TBC Speaker

This House Believes The Police Do Not Serve the People

In recent years, the British government has dramatically increased the power of law enforcement, especially when it comes to matters such as stop and search and restricting the activities of protesters. Many argue that these are necessary steps that help keep members of the British public safe and free from repeated disruption to public life. Others, however, maintain that civil liberties are being curtailed as the police become agents of the government, not servants of the people.

Opposition

Andy Cooke QPM DL

British public servant, former police officer, and current Chief Inspector since 2022.

The Rt Hon. The Lord Bailey of Paddington AM

Member of the London Assembly and 2021 Conservative Party Candidate for Mayor of London.

Proposition

Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP

Labour MP for Streatham, former Shadow Minister for Immigration, Chair of the Afrikan Reparations APPG.

The Rt Hon. The Lord Vaizey of Didcot PC

Former Conservative Minister for Culture, Communications, Creative Industries and media columnist.

This House Believes British Museums are Not Very British

The British Museum’s recent decisions to not return the Elgin Marbles to Greece and merely ‘loan back’ the Ashante Gold have reopened the debate over the repatriation of museum inventories. Many argue that the UK has no right to artefacts taken from other cultures — especially those forcibly stolen. Others, however, argue that British museums play a crucial role in preserving and protecting these relics, and give millions the opportunity to learn about the shared history of humanity.

American author and the former Director of The Walters Art Museum

Gary Vikan

TBC Speaker

Proposition

The Rt Hon. Sir Vince Cable

Former Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, former Leader of the Liberal Democrats.

The Rt Hon. Alistair Carmichael MP

Former Secretary of State for Scotland and current Liberal Democrat Home Affairs, Northern Ireland and Justice Spokesperson.

This House Believes The House of Lords is Not Fit for Purpose

The House of Lords has long been one of the most controversial parts of the British Constitution. Supporters argue the body serves as an important check on government and prevents policy being dictated by short term political thinking. Critics, however, counter that it lacks the legislative authority to serve as an effective upper house, and that it is deeply undemocratic to allow unelected peers — particularly those who inherited their position — a say in the government of 21st Century Britain.

Opposition

The Rt Hon. The Lord Bilimoria CBE DL

Businessman, member of the House of Lords, and Chancellor of the University of Birmingham.

The Rt Hon. The Lord Kakkar KBE PC

Professor at UCL and member of the House of Lords.

Proposition

The Rt Hon. The Lord Robathan PC

Member of the House of Lords and former British army officer.

General Sir Richard Barrons KCB BE

Former British Army officer and Commander Joint Forces Command.

This House Believes Britain is No Longer a Fighting Force

Though many maintain that the British Armed Forces remain as effective, professional and capable as ever, leading figures in Parliament, in the military and the Pentagon have all recently claimed that successive budget cuts have significantly reduced the UK’s ability to carry out independent action. With crises flaring across the globe and a major war on the European continent for the first time since 1945, it is more important than ever to discuss if Britain remains a fighting force.

Opposition

The Rt Hon. John Spellar MP

Member of Labour Party and British Member of Parliament since 1997.

Lieutenant General Sir Graeme Lamb KBE CMG DSO

Retired British Army officer known for his leadership and strategic expertise.

This House Would Fake It ‘Till You

Make It

The Union has an established tradition of a fun, ‘comedy’ debate in the final week of term. This motion allows us to discuss absolutely anything from politics to surgery, and from sport to love and we are sure it will create a lively debate with a great range of arguments and speakers.

Tom Rosenthal

English comedian, actor, and writer who starred in Friday Night Dinner.

Caspar Lee

British-South African Youtuber and investor, featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2020.

Count Binface

An independent space warrior and political candidate who has faced off against many PMs.

Floor Prizes

Week 1

Bella Italia £100 gift voucher

Week 2

Week 3

Week 4

Week 5

Week 6

Week 7

Week 8

2 x Victors £50 Vouchers

The Perch - Free 3 course meal for two

Oxford Union - Free Ball Ticket

Gusto - £50 voucher

Store Hotel - Overnight stay including breakfast and cocktails at their rooftop bar

Mamma Mia Pizzeria

2 x 3 course meal for two

Barefoot - 8” Cake

Yeti Nepalese Restaurant - £20 Voucher

After Hours

You must show your Union membership card to use these offers

Bridge - Use discount code: Union_Bridge274

Atik - Union_Atik24 on Wednesdays

Plush - Free Entry for Union Members on Thursdays

Tap Social - 30% off food at The White House (Hinksey) on Tuesdays

The Mad Hatter - Free Entry to “Kanpai Karaoke” on Thursdays

10%

Cape of Good Hope | Oxford Wine

Cellar | Oxford Wine Cafe | Toby’s

KitKeeper | iScream Gelateria

Burrows and Hare | Moo Moo’s Green’s Cafe

Treasurer’s Treats

20%

Brasserie Blanc | Victors

Love Coffee & Gusto (food & weekdays only) | Mad Hatter Cocktail Masterclasses (Tuesday to Friday)

The Alice by The Randolph (food only)

The Store Hotel (accommodation)

The Randolph Hotel (accommodation)

15%

Happy Cakes | Barefoot CafeNed’s Noodle Bar | Ede & Ravenscroft

Tapsocial (eligible for food & drink across all venues) | Runaya

Tree Artisan Cafe (meal deal and sandwiches)

Duke of Cambridge - Happy Hour All Day Every Day

25%

30% plus OxMerch - £5 discount

Cote Brasserie - Complementary Kir Royale when dining (Sunday to Friday)

The Store Hotel - Complimentary Starter or Desert with every Main ordered

House Bar - Happy hour at all times

Banana Tree (a la carte menu)

Bella Italia (main meals only)

How to Get Involved

Debates and Events

The Oxford Union is committed to being a safe and welcoming space, where our members have the opportunity to engage with and challenge speakers. At our Thursday Night debates, all members are entitled to make speeches at the ‘Emergency Debate’ held before the main motion. Topics for these are chosen each week in Consultative Committee. Members also have the opportunity to be chosen by the President, to make floor speeches during the main debate. Moreover, at each of our individual speaker or panel events, there is a section open to the audience in which any member can ask a question to our esteemed guests. We encourage all members to take advantage of these unique opportunities and be part of shaping the conversation!

Run for Election

Elections for Officer and Committee positions are held each term on Friday of 7th Week. The society is dedicated to ensuring these elections are as open and accessible as possible, so keep an eye on our social media pages for help sessions run by our Returning Officer team! If you have any questions about running for election, please email ro@oxford-union.org for more information.

Appointed Committee

Helping to invite speakers and arrange debates over the vacation, as well as making sure events run smoothly during term; appointed committee is crucial to the operations of the Union. Roles include Press, Sponsorship, and Equalities officers, and are a fantastic way for members to gain experience and organise the events they wish to see!

Applications for Michaelmas term’s Senior Appointed officials will open in 3rd Week, whilst applications for Junior Appointed positions will open in 5th Week. These will be advertised on the Oxford Union’s social media pages, website, and mailing list. Applications involve a written form followed by an interview. These will be held on a rolling basis. Please email president-elect@ oxford-union.org for more information or if you have any questions.

Join a Committee

The Oxford Union has a broad range of committees, designed to ensure good governance of the society and that our members’ suggestions are considered. This is why all committee meetings are open to members to attend and observe! The Committees section of the termcard contains more information and if you are interested in becoming a member of any of these, please email the relevant committee chair to find out more!

President’s Open Hours

The President, Louis Wilson, will be hosting weekly opening hours, where members can come and ask any questions they may have.

These will run on Fridays from 11am - 1pm

Special Events

Since the Union’s foundation 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.

CONSULTING NETWORKING EVENT

We are pleased to offer our members the opportunity to engage with leading consulting firms at our upcoming panel and networking event. This event is designed to foster meaningful connections and provide insights into the dynamic world of consulting. We are proud to be able to provide such opportunities to our members, enabling them to gain invaluable industry knowledge and expand their professional networks. Join us for what promises to be an enriching experience.

Week 3

Lancia Consult

Lancia is a management and technology consultancy firm focussed on delivering impactful change to businesses globally.

Kearney

Kearney is a leading global management consulting firm, working with a range of high-value and influential companies, governments, and nonprofit organisations.

More to be announced soon

This event will include a panel and a complimentary drinks reception

DEMOCRACY ON TRIAL: the (Ab)use of Courts for Political Gains

The judicialization of politics is one of the most significant phenomena of 21st-century government. In 2024, pre and post-election litigation will be at its peak. The targeting of political candidates through judicial intervention has raised questions on the fairness of elections in countries around the world and indeed the integrity of the democratic process. Are courts, electoral commissions and anti-corruption watchdogs simply fulfilling their duties, or have they been weaponized for use in controversies that they should not be permitted to resolve?

15th May

Dr Fernando Lusa Bordin

Dr Bordin is an Associate Professor and the John Thornely Fellow in Law at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge. He has written on international legal theory and on the legal use of force. During his career, he has worked with a number of organisations, including the United Nations and the International Court of Justice.

Maqbool Baqar

Maqbool Baqar is a prominent jurist, who has served as a justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan and as the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court. His judicial career has spanned four decades, during which time he notably ruled that the National Accountability Bureau had exceeded its authority in its investigation of President Asia Ali Zardari.

Aitzaz Ahsan

Aitzaz Ahsan is a Pakistani politician and lawyer. He has twice served as the Leader of the House in the Senate of Pakistan, and was previously the Minister of Law, Justice and Human Rights. As a lawyer, he has represented several high-profile Pakistani personalities including three Prime ministers of Pakistan (Nawaz Sharif, Benazir Bhutto and Yusuf Raza Gillani).

INTRIGUE & INSIDERS: American Politics in the Age of Trump vs Biden

The stakes of the upcoming US election could not be higher. Political pundits have long attempted to predict electoral outcomes, yet the 2024 election has posed an unprecedented challenge. From the shifting tides of public opinion to the increasingly polarising candidates, the upcoming election promises significant consequences both domestically and internationally. We bring together experts and insiders to discuss: how did the US reach this point? What are the implications of the upcoming election? What is the most likely outcome?

Date: TBC

Donna Brazile is an American political strategist and campaign manager, who has served as the Chair of the Democratic National Committee. She served as the campaign manager for Al Gore in 2000, was a superdelegate in the 2008 presidential election and served as a strategist in the 2016 election.

John Lee is the Congressional Chief of Staff for Congresswoman

Nikki Budzinski. He was named in Forbes’ 30 under 30 for Energy in 2023, after he successfully spearheaded the passage of more than $400 billion worth of tax credits into law whilst working as the Congressional Chief of Staff to Congressman Sean Casten.

Dee Martin is the co-head of the Policy Resolution Group at Bracewell. She has more than 20 years of experience providing strategic and political advice to corporations and non-profit organisations in their dealings with all three branches of the United States government.

Donna Brazile

John Lee

Dee Martin

Speakers

Each term we aim to host a diverse range of unique and influential speakers across a variety of fields. At each of these events, you have the opportunity not just to hear from, but to ask your own questions to our speakers. You also have the opportunity to pre-submit questions anonymously, via forms circulated on our weekly mailing list and on our Facebook page. We hope you take this opportunity to use your voice to shape the conversation.

Our committee will be working hard throughout term to add new speakers to this lineup. You can find the latest updates on our Facebook page, website, or mailing list (which you can join by emailing enquiries@oxfordunion.org). You can also find links to the weekly ballot to join meet and greets with the speakers there.

Please note that one of the challenges 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 to do our best to ensure members are given adequate notice of changes or cancellations.

JID

JID is an American rapper whose career has been marked by a litany of critical successes. He has collaborated with artists such as J. Cole, 21 Savage, and Imagine Dragons, worked alongside Mac Miller, and released several songs which have charted highly on the Billboard Hot 100. His albums include The Never Story (2017), DiCaprio 2 (2018), and The Forever Story (2022).

Tuesday 23th April 17:00

Week 1

Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi

Benazir Bhutto Memorial Lecture

As both the first female speaker of the House of Representatives and leader of a major political party in Congress, Nancy Pelosi has broken many glass ceilings. As leader of the House Democrats (2003 to 2023) she oversaw the passage of reforms such as the Affordable Care Act and the American Rescue Plan. A global icon and a leading figure in the fight for female empowerment, Pelosi has been a driving force in determining American policies.

Thursday 25th April 17:00 Week

Dr Gerald Chan

Dr Gerald Chan is an American billionaire, who co-runs the Hang Lung Group alongside his brother. With a career marked by wily investment and generous benefaction, alongside qualifications from UCLA and Harvard, there are few with more insight into the world of venture capital, finance, and private equity than Chan.

Wednesday 1st May 17:00

For the latest information, please see our Instagram page:

Week 2

J. Smith-Cameron

Smith–Cameron is a two-time Primetime Emmy Award-nominated American actress, whose credits include Rectify and Succession. From Broadway to the silver screen, Ms Smith-Cameron’s career has seen her nominated and awarded with many accolades, including a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award nomination, as well as praise from numerous critics, including the New York Times.

Tuesday 7th May 17:00

Week 3

Professor Daron Acemoglu

Mr Acemoglu is a Turkish-American economist, co-author of Why Nations Fail. He has received degrees from the University of York and LSE, and is now an Institute Professor at MIT. He was named the most cited economist of the past 10 years in 2015, and is the third most frequently cited author on college syllabi for economics courses.

Monday 13th May 17:00

Week 4

Prince Jean-Christophe Bonaparté, Prince Napoléon

Prince Jean-Christophe is the disputed head of the Imperial House of France, son of Prince Charles Napoleon, and great-great-great grandnephew of Napoleon I. He went to University at HEC Paris and Harvard, before pursuing a career in private equity (Morgan Stanley, Blackstone). He later ventured into the world of private equity independently, founding his own investment firm, Leon Capital, in 2022.

Tuesday 14th May 17:00

Week 4

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

Abbasi is the 21st Prime Minister of Pakistan, who served as PM from August 2017 until May 2018. He was a Member of the National Assembly of Pakistan between 1988 and 2023. His time in office was characterised by efforts to maintain stability, implement infrastructure projects, and navigate political and economic challenges amid a changing political landscape in Pakistan.

Wednesday 22th May 17:00

Week 5

The End of Race: The Real Drivers of Black Success

The Rt Hon. The Lord Sewell of Sanderstead CBE

Baron Sewell of Sanderstead is a Conservative life peer and educational consultant. He is the founder and chair of the educational charity Generating Genius, who chaired the UK Commission on Race and Ethnic Disparities in 2020. He has played a part in several significant initiatives into aid for underprivileged areas, helping found The Learning Trust as well as chairing an inquiry which resulted in the government approving £26 million as part of the London Schools Excellence Fund.

Friday 24th May 17:00

Week 5

His Royal Highness Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg

His Royal Highness has been the Grand Duke of Luxembourg since October 2000. Grand Duke Henri is a member of the International Olympic Committee, The Mentor Foundation (founded by the WHO) and a director of the Charles Darwin Trust for the Galápagos Islands. He and his family have been involved in much charity work, with issues they have supported ranging from healthcare to education.

Monday 27th May 17:00

Week 6

Chief Justice Dhananjaya Y. Chandrachud

Chandrachud is the current Chief Justice of India, who has been in post since November 2022, and is the son of India’s longest-serving Chief Justice. He has qualifications from the University of Delhi and Harvard, and his time in office has seen him rule over issues from privacy to homosexuality, elections to land disputes.

Tuesday 4th June 17:00

Week 7

Samantha McAllister

Sam McAllister is a British TV producer and author, who is best known for her role in securing the interview of Prince Andrew conducted by Emily Maitlis in 2019. She was played by Billie Piper in the recently-released Netflix feature film about the interview, Scoop.

Wednesday 5th June 17:00

Week 7

Chris Dixon

Dixon is an American entrepreneur and investor, who is known for his work with Ebay, as well as being a proud cryptocurrency enthusiast. He was ranked 1st on the 2022 Midas List, and has degrees from Columbia and Harvard. Dixon is known for being one of the very first to invest in Bitcoin, and was called “the World’s top cryptoinvestor” by Forbes in 2022. He also sits on the Board for Oculus VR.

Friday 7th June 18:00

Week 7

Steve Aoki

Mr Aoki is an American musician, DJ, and producer who has collaborated with artists including will.i.am, Linkin Park, Iggy Azalea, Blink-182, BTS, and Fall Out Boy, to name but a few. Mr Aoki has released seven studio albums so far, many of which are Billboardcharting. His first album, Wonderland, was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2013.

Monday 10th June 14:00

Week 8

Roger Lynch

Mr Lynch is the CEO of Condé Nast, a global mass-media company which oversees the operations for brands including Vogue, The New Yorker, GQ, Vanity Fair, and Wired. From humble origins (his first job was delivering newspapers in his hometown of Baltimore, Maryland) Mr Lynch has been a steady hand at the helm of Condé Nast, steering it through the troubled waters of the Covid-19 pandemic and the rise of influencer media.

Monday 10th June 18:00

Week 8

Marianne Williamson

Ms Marianne Williamson is an American politician, who was a candidate for the 2024 United States presidential election, challenging President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination. Williamson first ran for office in the 2014 House Elections as an independent, and was a supporter of Bernie Sanders in the 2020 Democratic Primary, before eventually endorsing Biden. She has worked on several charitable causes, including helping those with HIV/AIDS and improving education.

Thursday 13th June 17:00

Week 8

José Mourinho

José Mourinho is a professional football manager, considered by many to be one of the greatest managers in the sport’s history. Known as ‘The Special One’, Mourinho has managed several major European top-flight teams including Porto, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Manchester United. He has won two Champions League trophies, three Premier Leagues, and several other cup competitions, amongst many more titles throughout his illustrious career.

Patrick J Adams

Patrick J Adams is best known for playing the widely beloved maverick protégé lawyer Mike Ross on Suits. His incredible performance over seven seasons won the hearts of fans and the acclaim of the critics. Beyond that he has directed, written and starred in several critically reviewed short films premiered at film festivals. Taking his talents beyond film he has most recently won a Tony Award for his performance in Take Me Out, his broadway debut itself.

Leah Williamson

Leah Williamson is captain of the England women’s national team and also plays for the Super League club Arsenal. Williamson plays both central defence and midfield, and captained England to their first UEFA European Championship victory in 2022. With Arsenal she has won the league, as well as winning both the FA Cup and League Cup twice. Williamson also uses her platform to advocate for social issues such as LGBTQIA+ rights and girls football.

TBC

Rio Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand is a former professional footballer-turned pundit, who played for the English national team 81 times between 1997 and 2011. After two seasons with Leeds United, Ferdinand moved to Manchester United in 2002 for a record-breaking £30 million. Before his contract expired in 2014, Ferdinand won six Premier League titles and 14 trophies. He is widely-regarded as one of the best English footballers of his generation.

Rio Ferdinand is a former professional footballer-turned pundit, who played for the English national team 81 times between 1997 and 2011. After two seasons with Leeds United, Ferdinand moved to Manchester United in 2002 for a record-breaking £30 million. Before his contract expired in 2014, Ferdinand won six Premier League titles and 14 trophies. He is widely-regarded as one of the best English footballers of his generation.

PIANOS FOR LIFE

For generations, the Kawai family has blended knowledge, skill, technology, and heart in the quest to perfect the art of the piano. So, whether you’re a world-renowned concert pianist or an artist on a journey to greatness, a Kawai piano is the perfect choice.

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The Rt Hon. Mark Drakeford MS

Mr Drakeford was the Welsh First Minister and Leader of the Welsh Labour Party between 2018 and 2024. Standing down as First Minister in March of this year, he had previously held roles as Finance Minister and Minister for Health before winning the leadership contest. His time in office oversaw some of the most tumultuous periods in modern British history, with Covid-19 and the passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II being only two of the challenges he faced.

The Oxford Union

FASHION VINTAGE FAIR

SUN 28TH APRIL, 11AM - 4PM

in collaboration with Reviva

THE OXFORD UNION

Pub Quiz

Monday, April 29th

Monday, May 27th

8PM @ MEMBERS’ BAR

Friday 3rd MAY, 6PM to 11PM

Musical Evening with Prosecco Reception

Tuesday 21st May

BEER GARDEN & CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

WATCH PARTY

THE OXFORD UNION

LGBTQ SOCIAL

TUE 11 JUNE 8 PM

Guest Policy

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

1. The guest is not themselves eligible for membership

2. The guest pays a £12.50 entry fee

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

Events may be made members only when there is a security risk or extremely high demand.

Competitive Debating

Debating at the Union is not reserved for Thursday nights. The Union’s competitive debating squad is one of the largest and most successful in the world, and we are the reigning World Champions!

We do not just practise debating at Oxford, we also fully fund teams of both novices and experienced debaters to attend competitions internationally and nationally. Recently these have included free trips to Vietnam, Bulgaria, Croatia and more. We host the Oxford IV, one of the largest debating competitions in Europe, the Oxford Women’s and Gender Minorities’ Open, and organise the world’s largest schools’ debating competition, all of which attract competitors from around the globe.

People with any level of experience are encouraged to get involved in debating. For novices, we have Beginners’ workshops on Monday nights in the Morris room. These workshops are coached by some of Oxford’s best debaters. They begin with short presentations to target specific debating skills, then move onto practice debates where everyone will get to have a go.

Beginners’ is a very friendly and fun environment - if you have not debated before this is the perfect place to start! For those with more experience, Intermediate and Advanced squads run on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings at the Union, where our coaches provide a one-on-one development programme.

There are also unique opportunities for debating which arise throughout the year, such as being able to deliver floor speeches in the chamber, join mentorship schemes, and do outreach work such as teaching debating to schoolchildren. If you have any questions or want to sign up for squads, please contact the Chair of Debate Selection Committee, Patrick Rees, at cdsc@oxford-union.org

To sign up for the mailing list for weekly updates, which includes information on tournaments, training and more, send a blank email to debate-announcesubscribe@maillist.com. You may also want to like the Oxford Debating Facebook Page and join the Oxford Debaters’ Facebook Group, and follow our instagram @oxforddebating

On the 4th of January, Oxford became the World Champion of Debating, as Aniket Chakravorty and Mark Rothery won the 2024 World Universities Debating Championships. This follows a hugely successful run of competitions for the Oxford Union, who saw more finalists at this summer’s European Championships than any other institution (or country!).

Committees

The affairs of the society are managed by a number of committees, each of which meet in person throughout term. These committees work for you, the members; and as such all are open to any member, and you are more than welcome to attend. If you would like further information or details on how to attend, please do email the respective chair for each committee.

STANDING COMMITTEE

Chair - Louis Wilson

The President president@oxford-union.org

Mondays at 4pm

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

FINANCE COMMITTEE

Chair - Robert McGlone

Treasurer

treasurer@oxford-union.org

Mondays at 3pm

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

CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

Chair - Sultan Khokhar

CCC

ccc@oxford-union.org

Mondays at 1.15pm

Consultative Committee is comprised of all Union members. It gives you the opportunity to ask the officers of the Union any questions and stay up-to-date on the running of the Union’s events. It is also where Emergency Debate motions are decided.

ACCESS COMMITTEE

Chair - Aliyyah Gbadmosi

Access Officer

access.chair@oxford-union.org

Wednesdays at 2pm

Responsible for promoting the inclusion of under-represented groups by planning events and suggesting changes.

LIBRARY COMMITTEE

Chair - Isabelle Horrocks-Taylor Librarian

librarian@oxford-union.org

Mondays at 2.15pm

Responsible for management of the Society’s library: purchasing and withdrawing books, as well as making recommendations for the running of the library.

DEBATE SELECTION COMMITTEE

Chair - Patrick Rees

CDSC

cdsc@oxford-union.org

Mondays at 12pm

Responsible for the Union’s competitive debatingcompetitions, trails, squads, and more.

WINE AND SPIRITS COMMITTEE

Chair - Rachel Haddad

Secretary

secretary@oxford-union.org

Thursdays at 5pm

Responsible for managing the Union’s Bar offerings, opening times and happy hours!

The Library

The Old Library was the original debating chamber of the Union. Stocked with over 60,000 books, the Union’s library facilities are extensive, spacious and beautiful. It even has a freestanding fireplace, one of three in the whole of the United Kingdom!

On its walls are some of the world’s most famous Pre-Raphaelite murals depicting scenes from Arthurian legend, painted by artists of the calibre of Dante Gabriel Rosetti 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 also spaces available for use from any member during our open hours and provide a secluded study space in a historic atmosphere.

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

Termtime opening hours

Mon-Fri 09:30-19:00 Sat 11:00-17:00

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, 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, Sasha, would be happy to hear from members with questions and suggestions. She can be reached at housemanager@oxford-union.org

Alternatively, please contact the Secretary about attending Wine and Spirits Committee.

MEMBERS DISCOUNT AT ALL TIMES

OPENING HOURS

Monday to Wednesday 11:00 - 23:00

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 11:00 - Midnight

Our Bar Lunch is served: Monday to Saturday 12.00 - 14.00

Accessibility

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 the Access Officer, Aliyyah Gbadmosi, at access. officer@oxford-union.org You can also raise thoughts and suggestions at Access Committee.

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 & Policies section of our website with a PDF version available on request. We have an access bench at all our events for any members with accessibility requirements. For any specific accessibility queries regarding an event, please contact the House Manager at bar@oxford-union.org and the CCC, Sultan Khokhar, 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’.

Reciprocal Membership

The Oxford Union is incredibly grateful to have reciprocal membership agreements with other members’ clubs around the world. If you would like to visit a reciprocal club, please write to the General Office at enquiries@oxford-union.org to obtain a letter of introduction beforehand.

THE LANSDOWNE CLUB, LONDON

THE NATIONAL LIBERAL CLUB, LONDON

THE CLIFTON CLUB, BRISTOL

THE HOVE CLUB, HOVE

THE CARDIFF & COUNTY CLUB, CARDIFF

THE ST JAMES’S CLUB, MANCHESTER

THE HARROGATE CLUB, HARROGATE

THE KONINKLIJKE INDUSTRIEELE GROOTE CLUB AMSTERDAM

THE CLUB INTERNATIONAL LEIPZIG LEIPZIG

THE UNION INTERNATIONAL CLUB FRANKFURT

THE CIRCOLO BONONIA BOLOGNA

THE CIRCULO DEL LICEO BARCELONA

THE CIRCULO ECUSTRE BARCELONA

THE GRÉMIO LITERÁRIO LISBON

THE UNIVERSITY CLUB OF WASHINGTON D.C. WASHINGTON D.C.

THE NAVAL CLUB, VALPARAISO

FRANKFURTER GESELLSCHAFT FUR HANDEL, INDUSTRIE UND

WISSENSCHAFT E.V. – FRANKFURT, GERMANY

CLUB DE BANQUEROS Y EMPRESARIOS - BOGOTA, COLUMBIA

In addition to these reciprocal clubs, we have also partnered with The Anglo German Club and The Ubersee Club in Hamburg, which you may visit subject to a previous request to their respective General Offices.

To enhance your visit at these clubs further, several of our reciprocal clubs also offer accommodation or discounted rates for local hotels, so do look at their respective websites for more information. Please contact the Director of Innovation, Silvan Bennett-Schaar, if you have any ideas or suggestions to expand our reciprocal network.

The President

Louis Wilson Christ Church

Committee Trinity ‘24

OFFICERS

Librarian

Isabelle Horrocks-Taylor Balliol College

President-Elect

Ebrahim Osman-Mowafy St Edmund Hall

Librarian-Elect

Aryan Dhanwani Oriel College

Treasurer

Robert McGlone St John’s College

Treasurer-Elect

Anita Okunde Magdalen College

STANDING COMMITTEE

Secretary

Rachel Haddad Moskalenko

James Mackenzie St Hilda’s College

Ben Murphy St Anne’s College

Raza Nazar Trinity College

Danyal Admani St Hugh’s College

Hugo Roma-Wilson Trinity College Balliol College

SECRETARY’S COMMITTEE

Zarin Fariha Wadham College

Vee Kumar Worcester College

Yashas Ramakrishnan Balliol College

Prajwal Pandey New College

Shermar Pryce University College

Devon Darley New College

George Abaraonye University College

Siddhant Nagrath Keble College

Jake Peto Christ Church

Ammar Ansari St Anthony’s College

Returning Officer

Keelan Daye

St Peter’s College

Director of Press

Noah Robson Christ Church

SENIOR APPOINTED

CDSC

Patrick Rees

St Anne’s College

Director of Research

Oscar Whittle St John’s College

Director of Strategy

Santiago

Bedoya-Pardo

Regent’s Park College

Disability Officer

Zagham Farhan

Ethnic Minority Officer

Amina Bellalem

LGBTQIA+ Officer

Porter Reyes

Women & Gender Minorities Officer

Jennifer Wright

Socioeconomic Officer

Conor Boyle

Termcard

Chief of Staff

Theo Adler-Williams

Worcester College

Director of Media

Ashling Sugrue

Kellogg College

Social Events Officer

Jennifer Heath

Oriel College

Director of Innovation

Silvan Bennett-Schaar

Brasenose College

Access Officer

Aliyyah Gbadmosi

University College

Senior Welfare Officer

Aamina Rizvi

St John’s College

Social Media Officer

Karma Gad Mansfield College

Director of Sponsorship

James Lawson Magdalen College

Press Officers

Barney Wakefield, Evelyn Power, Joel Buckley

Sponsorship Officers

Iona Spence, Mayank Mittal

Media Officers

Alex Prvulovich, Prem Meyappan

Operations Officers

Makkunda Sharma, Paul Davis

First Lady

Mina Lozanova

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

Staff

With exceptional professionalism and unwavering commitment, our team of staff works diligently behind the scenes to enrich the Union experience for all members and guests. Their invaluable support and meticulous attention to detail make it possible for the Oxford Union to continue its tradition of fostering debate and discussion. If you see them around the buildings, be sure to say hello!

David Whittingham

Deputy Librarian

Laura Johnson

Office/Membership Administrator

Darcy Aigle-Boucher

Deputy Bursar

Richard Wood

Events Manager

AJ Carver

Maintenance Operative

John Roderick

Assistant Librarian

Elizabeth-Jane Piper

Librarian-in-Charge

Tom Corrick

Accounts Assistant

Alla Kostyk

Archive and Records Manager

Sally Gilbert

Trainee Librarian

Connie Hubbard

House Manager

Sasha Challen

Bursar

President’s Thanks

To Mum, I could not have done any of this without your constant love and support; always being straight to the point and honest, perhaps most importantly when I did not want to hear it. I owe everything I have to you. To Dad, for the long discussions in the beer garden and never failing to make me laugh. To my grandmothers for always keeping my feet firmly on the ground. To my grandfathers – I hope you are proud.

To Mina, for your love, support, and a virtue which I have yet to learn, patience. I do not know how you put up with me talking about the Union all the time and I am so lucky to have you in my life.

To my friends outside the Union who are probably glad this will be my last term involved! Ali, Nic, Maddy, Shilo, Angelina, Ramona, Chris, Scarlett, Martha, and all others at Christ Church. To Will & Vivek, for the fun pints and taking my mind off things. Thank you for never failing to remind me that the Union is not the be all and end all.

Nothing we do as students in the Union would be possible without the tremendous work and kindness of the Staff and Senior Officers. You do not get the recognition you deserve and thank you for always cleaning up our mess. A special thank you to David, Richard, Iftikhar, Sarah and John, for your advice in tough times.

No individual is ever solely responsible for putting together a term card, and my committee deserve endless thanks for your tireless work over this vac. A special thank you to Sultan and Theo, for your advice, friendship and keeping me company. To my officers, Izzy, Robert, and Rachel, thank you for your initiative in turbulent times and I am so excited to serve with you all this term.

To Charlie, Keelan, Hannah, Josh, Maia, and of course Darian. Although I met you all through the Union and I am so grateful for the guidance you

Louis Wilson The President

have given me on navigating this place, I am even more fortunate to have gotten to know you outside the Union as well. This Society has the potential to bring people together and I hope our friendships continue long after we’ve left it behind.

To all the people I have run with and have been such an important part of my journey both in the Union and Oxford more generally. A special thank you to Julia, Chris, and all on #Challenge. Elections are the toughest element of the Union, and I am so thankful for your support and friendship.

To all those in RO world for your tireless work to keep this place functioning, especially to Kit, Abi, Adam, and Jake. To my predecessors in whose footsteps I tread and whose successes I wish to emulate. In particular to Michael L, Adam, Michael A, Matthew, Disha, Rosie, Sharon, Lewis, and Joshua. Thank you for your advice and all I have learnt from each of you.

There are so many others who are deserving of thanks which it is not possible to mention in so few words. I want to finish by expressing my gratitude to the Union itself. It is an institution like no other, and one which is definitely worth fighting for. It is a privilege to serve as President and hopefully make a small contribution to the Society which has given me so much.

Yours,

Louis Wilson The President, Trinity 2024

“We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars”

Oscar Wilde