Model European Union Simulation

This Honours Class provides highly motivated undergraduate students from all Leiden University faculties the interdisciplinary opportunity to deepen their knowledge on real-life topics related to the European Union and apply them in the context of a simulation of the European Council. The course seeks to explore negotiation, diplomatic tactics and techniques and in-depth knowledge of EU policy-making in an active and experiential manner, and places you and your fellow students at the centre of the learning process, by continuously engaging you through interactive lectures, practical skill sessions and interim mini simulations as well as the immersive full day European Council simulation. You will understand the nature and functioning of major EU institutions, their power and role in the policy making process from a historical and theoretical perspective and will have the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice, by taking on the role of a policy maker and negotiating policy proposals with your counterparts. You will also examine and analyse in-depth the policy challenges related to the EU, European and global policy challenges. As a result of this practical experience you will hopefully become well-versed in EU affairs and will have the chance to hone not only your negotiation and public speaking skills, but also your inter-personal negotiation skills.