Every year, Global Governance and Ethics MSc students travel to Geneva as part of the programme’s emphasis on understanding how normative and empirical approaches to international justice are applied in practice.
This trip is a highlight of the year for many students, and this June was no exception. Arriving during the 20th anniversary of the Human Rights Council (HRC) provided particularly unique opportunities, including attending roundtables at the Geneva Human Rights Hub Annual Conference and side events hosted at the United Nations Office.
Our first session, ‘Interpretation and Guidance of Human Rights in the Digital Age’, enabled the cohort to engage directly with NGOs working to ensure that international human rights and humanitarian law are fit for purpose considering the (still recent) significant technological changes. It was a rare opportunity to gain firsthand insight into dynamics shaping the field, such as the growing role of corporate actors in shaping global regulation, as well as the wider implications of AI policy for climate change and security. Our time at the UN ended with a walk around the Palais des Nations, where we learned about the site’s historical significance while overlooking spectacular views across Lac Leman towards Mont Blanc.
Attending a talk by Rafael Grossi, one of the candidates for the United Nations Secretary-General selection, was another highlight for the cohort. Titled ‘The Importance of Multilateral Organisations: How they and their Leaders can step up to the Challenges of Today’, the talk, hosted at the Geneva Graduate Institute, explored some of the critical challenges facing the multilateral system; from the influence of private actors over global governance, to threats posed by nuclear arms. The discussion was characterised by a sense of optimism about the enduring importance of multilateral organisations in addressing global problems.
What stood out the most for me about this trip was the way in which it inspired us students as we reflected on our careers. Although bound by a common interest in global governance and ethics, members of my cohort aspire to pursue a variety of different careers across government, charities, think tanks, law, consulting and academia. Our time in Geneva encompassed this intersection of career opportunities: throughout the week we met professionals from across these sectors who were all working towards the shared goal of advancing international justice. Every student had the opportunity to engage with a representative from the sector that interested them, which made the trip an invaluable opportunity for both inspiration and networking. Speaking with other members of the cohort afterwards made it clear that this was a common reflection. Angie Ling said “I felt inspired after attending the side events and actually seeing how NGOs engage with different perspectives, but with the same common goal. It ignited my passion and interest in working and contributing within the NGO sector.”
Our cohort returned from Geneva feeling inspired and excited for the opportunities ahead. It was a privilege to represent UCL on a memorable trip.
Key links:
- The Global Governance and Ethics Msc - find out more about the course.
- The UN Human Rights Council - responsible for the promotion and protection of all human rights around the globe.