Students from across the faculties were drawn to an inside look into the world of international diplomacy this week, as former Foreign Minister Alexander Downer and Consuls General Niels Marquardt (from the US) and Nick McInnes (British) spoke at the University Diplomacy Conference at the University of New South Wales.

Hundreds took part in workshops with diplomats and NGO leaders, aimed at equipping them with the right skills for effective leadership and negotiation. Mr Downer, who is working as UN Special Advisor to the Secretary-General on Cyprus, discussed the role of the Security Council and the issue of power politics, including the need for reform.  

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

Student-run workshops focused on negotiation and advocacy skills, emphasising  the importance of taking a principled approach when staking interests in issues.

After plenty of positive feedback organisers are working to make next year’s Conference even better.