Pittsburgh MEU 2023 Blog Post
Madison Swain
Last February I received the opportunity to travel to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and represent Denmark in the University of Pittsburgh’s Model European Union conference. This simulation was my first experience with Model EU and proved challenging but rewarding.
The conference began with delegates from various universities, each representing a European Union member state, opening the floor with their state’s most important views. The following debate sessions covered topics such as Europe’s energy crisis and Greece and Turkey’s maritime dispute. Delegates were passionate and it was inspiring to see senior Model EU members lead debates as a first-time delegate. I particularly enjoyed the unmoderated sessions where delegates were able to speak freely and around the room while crafting resolutions to potentially solve issue topics. All participants were dedicated to creating a passing resolution while keeping their country’s priorities in high regard. We concluded the conference with a mix of passing and not-as-successful resolutions, which is representative of the challenge that is international politics.
Beyond drafting resolutions and listening to delegate speeches, I also explored Pittsburgh’s downtown, various museums, and the Cathedral of Learning! This immersive experience broadened my understanding of European politics and allowed me to engage with fellow students from across the country. Participating in this conference was a great introduction to my Model EU experience and I am grateful that I was given the opportunity to try something new!
This publication was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of UNC, Pitt, and FIU, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
