In the Refugee Crisis simulation, my group was assigned the role of the United States Department of State. I acted as the main speaker for the D.o.S. and did most of the formal negotiations. Going into the situation, I felt very prepared. I read up on all the material I could, and had a firm grasp on how our current US D.o.S operated. However, as soon as the simulation started, I began to feel less prepared due to the many viewpoints that weren’t expressed in our own “Tasker”. Once I figured out how each actor operated and what their basic interests were, I was able to adapt my argument to try and achieve the United States’ goals. In the end, the United States obtained what it wanted: Stability in the region, security of Gilbia, safety for the Rubits, and the maintaining of neutral relations with the country of Malil. While the United States did take in a small amount of refugees (4,000 to be exact), this was deemed a necessary sacrifice in order to compromise with the other actors and find a solution. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the simulation. Although more complicated, I think playing as the United States gave me an even better view of diplomacy. Having conflicting interests with almost every other actor made my position much more difficult. I really enjoyed getting into the role of the US D.o.S., and seeing tensions flare at certain points made the simulation all the more fun. I also enjoyed having the power to veto certain points that were outrageous and against the United States’ interests. Having the formal negotiations moderated by Mr. Bailey balanced by informal negotiations where you could make back channel deals added to the excitement. I struggled the most with trying to stick to my part, yet still find a solution to the crisis. Because of the lack of information, it was hard to know how much money the United States could supply. I was often thinking, “Can we just give Budan $5 billion and bribe them to keep the Rubits?” Also, it would have been helpful to know more history about the region we were dealing with and what events may have led up to the refugee crisis. I learned a lot about international relations through this simulation. Not only did it require me to analyze the situation and craft counter-arguments against other actors, it also required me to listen to others’ views and communicate mine in an intelligent, calm, and thoughtful manner. Seeing diplomacy take shape within our own classroom was really cool and I look forward to the next scenario we encounter.
