Human Rights Debate Competition

This is a one day event that aims to create a dialogue between students on the topic of "Migration and Europe". Our approach to creating this dialogue is two-fold, first students will compete against each other in a formal debate competition, and second, students will have the opportunity to hear and interact with renowned experts. This event is not for profit, and will be held entirely in English.

HOW DOES THE DEBATE WORK?

In this competition there are 2 rounds of debate, each lasting about 60 minutes. In the first round you and your teammate (e.g. your friend, classmate, girlfriend, etc.) will each prepare in advance a 5 minute speech in support of the given resolution (e.g. "Be it resolved that the bike is better than the car"). You will then present your speeches individually to the "judge" (e.g. a Professor) and to the opposing team (also consisting of two students). Once you have presented your speech one member of the opposing team will question you, based on your speech, for 3 minutes. Your teammate is then questioned, based on his/her speech, by the other member of the opposing team. The opposing team then presents their speeches and is subsequently questioned by you and your teammate. There is then a brief pause of 5 minutes where teams prepare for a rebuttal speech. Team members from each side then present their 3 minute rebuttal speeches. In the second round your team will argue against the resolution and against a different team. Based on scores from the 2 preliminary rounds the top four teams will advance to the semi-finals. The winners of the semi-finals will then face off in the final round of debate.

For more details please see the participant information section.

WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME?

As a student, the experiences gained from participating in this event will be invaluable! Here are some of the benefits:

• Practice your English speaking skills
• Improve your public speaking skills
• Interact with a diverse group of engaging students
• Broaden your knowledge of Migration and Europe
• Learn from renowned guest speakers
• Build teamwork skills
• Socialize with faculty members
• Add it to your CV
• Make new friends
• Food, awards, and more!

Sounds interesting? Click here to learn how you can be a part of this great experience!

I'M INTERESTED, BUT I'VE NEVER DEBATED BEFORE!

Don't worry! Many of the other participants have not debated before either! In fact, as someone who has never debated before, you stand to gain the most from this experience. A show round will also be put on for participants on 7 March 2007.