By participating in SEAYLP, not only have we received valuable knowledge through many workshops, service project, water testing and action plan but we also have a chance to try an extremely wonderful activity which we have never experienced before: Diplomacy simulation.
We have the first lesson about diplomacy simulation which was instructed by Shahin on Nov 3. It brought us into a brand new experience. The purpose of the simulation is to address critical issues in each conflict, test new approaches to conflicts, and devise innovative diplomatic solutions. Diplomats will use negotiating skills to reach an agreement and make policies.
There are five main stakeholder groups: the United Nations, Government of The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), United States Department of State, Government of Japan and World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Each Stakeholder group will prioritize the possible actions in order to solve problems which have been given.
Before the real Negotiation begins, all the representatives worked very hard to do research on their own standing and to find the perfect solution which would ultimately benefit all parties. However, a huge amount of flexibility was also required by each stakeholder. For example, Japan initially found soybean as a feasible replacement to reduce the consumption of bluefish tuna which would result in overfishing and IUU fishing. But after all that tedious work, they were forced to scrape off that idea as it simply was not in line with their objectives and goals. The creative ideas which every group came up with to attain their goals and a perfect compromise are indeed praiseworthy.
The morning of 17th November 2010, everybody looks so tired since they have to get up early preparing for their own diplomacy. The negotiation between U.N , W.W.F, F.S.M, U.S, Japan was going severe until the last minute by result 7.125 between F.S.M and Japan.
Thus, the simulation which made everybody worked a lot was finally done. Thanks SEAYLP for giving us such a great opportunity to learn. Though everybody had to work so hard, we had many fun moment during the time we discuss together.
Posted by Anita and Tracy.
