European Union Council

There were multiple topics discussed in the forum which raised the challenges and renovations which ratification of the Lisbon Treaty has produced.

Delegates from Luxembourg and France both defended the treaty vehemently however there were evident gaps in delegate knowledge of the new protocol and institutional developments which occurred.

Delegates from Belgium were particularly spirited in their defence of the new Treaty, which they argued extended democracy through enlarging the European Parliament’s powers. On occasion complex arguments drawn from Political Science were used to clarify the new Majoritarian voting system installed.

In the light of recent security threats, delegates were concerned about cross-border policing and the perceived weakness in the European wide attempts to co-ordinated intelligence. All delegates urged greater transparency between governments.

By Calum Young

AFRICAN UNION

The forum and discussion were led by the delegate from South Africa. The Washington Consensus and the rise of neo-liberalism in the West were touted as bringing partial benefits to the region. However, the absence of a trade-agreement between delegates from Mauritania and Mali had the affect of paralysing sensible discourse for the duration of the opening exchanges. Both delegates left frustrated.

Of paramount importance to all concerned were the recent Pirating attacks off the coast of Somalia. The delegate from Mozambique spoke lucidly about the challenges faced as a result of the failing government in Mogadishu, she argued for increased aid to the region and greater solidarity amongst AU countries in dealing with this difficult issue.

The challenges faced within the Democratic Republic of Congo were also noted. The Union herd harrowing accounts of mass rape and evidence of genocide, majority condemnation of the armed militia – the Janjaweed – was evident.

By Calum Young