Model EU Christchurch
Event description
We are delighted to announce the Christchurch Model EU 2022!
The event will simulate discussions taking place at the Council of the European Union, where ministers from all EU Member States meet to discuss, amend and adopt an EU directive.
The theme of the Christchurch Model EU 2022 is: News, Fake News and No News – Freedom of Expression and Information in the EU
The Council of the European Union is the EU’s key (though not exclusive) law-making body, and an important forum for political debate, coordination and decision-making at the EU-level. The Council comprises ministers from each of the 27 Member States of the European Union. They are required to both represent their own national interest, and to find ways to formulate common interests and a European perspective.
Delegates will assume the roles of ministers to debate a draft directive focused on freedom of expression and information in the EU. The lifeblood of democracy, freedom of expression is at the heart of the constitutional order and of the architecture of human rights. But freedom of expression is under threat, as illiberal governments around the world seek to entrench their positions by placing limits on speech, and on the freedom and pluralism of the media.
The Model EU event will allow students the opportunity to examine this fundamental right in the context of the European Union, being tasked with negotiating agreements relating to: (i) misinformation, disinformation and free speech; and (ii) media freedom and pluralism. As a universal right, this subject has direct bearing on students’ own lived experiences, and allows the drawing of lessons and parallels with the New Zealand context. The topic also links with the NCEA Social Studies external standards relating to cultural conflict and ideological responses to issues.
As ministers representing their Member States, delegates will engage in a simulation of high-level political negotiation, seeking to form agreements with like-minded states, and to find the best outcome to address the issues presented. Debate will take place in differing Council configurations and regional break-out sessions, as well as informal side-line negotiations. The event culminates with a full plenary, during which delegates will attempt to adopt the new directive.
This relaxed and engaging event is open to all high school students Years 9 to 13, with no previous experience or EU knowledge required.
The deadline for registrations is 24th May 2022!
Student Code of Conduct
We expect this event to be an open, positive and engaging event for everyone involved.
1. Student safety is of paramount importance. Be very careful at all times and
during all activities. Watch out for each other.
2. Remember you are representing your school. Your actions will affect everyone.
Do good things. Encourage each other.
3. Follow all instructions and obey all rules. Do not put yourself or others in danger.
4. Look after your own possessions as well as the facilities you are using.
5. No theft, lies, physical or emotional violence or vandalism.
6. No smoking or alcohol or drugs.
7. No bad language or putdowns.
8. Obey the directions of the event organisers and facilitators at all times.
9. If students are causing serious problems the emergency contact will be notified
and may be requested to remove the student immediately. The school will also
be informed. If necessary, the student will be sent home at their parent’s
expense.