Model ASEM Conference, Manila, Philippines, 28 February 2007

Testimonials

Gianna Gayle Amul (Media Officer)

The Model ASEM is quite an enlightening experience for a political science student who never really had much interest in this kind of interaction because I am more of a writer rather than a speaker (such that I applied for a position as a media officer rather than represent a country). Though much responsibility is given to representatives of countries and most especially to the ASEAN and EU representatives, the media officers role cannot be taken for granted. Without the help of the media officers, the declarations would not be possible, and even the notes for the entire model ASEM would not be available.

The dynamics of the ASEM proves to be an insightful experience especially during the deliberations for the declarations. It was quite surprising to see people these young to be involved in such matters where heads of states cannot even agree on. The experience might not be the real thing but it proved to be a reflection of what a real ASEM is. What I liked most about the Model ASEM is the discussion of the three pillars with which you can see where the focus of the ASEAN, the EU and the other countries are. I also enjoyed the deliberations for the declarations where you can witness how difficult it is for people from different countries, cultures and languages to agree on matters that are crucial not only for them but also for the whole world. The most important thing I have learned from this activity is that you cannot reach an objective agreement among different people without a common goal from with which they could work with.

The activity is well organized except for some students who represented countries but were not able to attend. There could have been more vibrant discussions if the delegates are in full force. But the sad reality is that the real ASEM does not show that this can be done.

The activity should be a requirement for students of international relations and comparative politics because the activity is an eye-opener as well as a meaningful experience that can enhance one's understanding about diplomacy, ASEAN, EU and other countries involved in the ASEM as well.

It is quite a successful activity since the Model ASEM was able:

To come up with two declarations regarding climate change and human rights violations;
To stimulate the students to think creatively (and more like heads of states/ministers rather than students);
To empower the students by encouraging them to research about the countries they represent and embody these countries' principles on the three pillars discussed.

I think the activity could be further improved if the participants were more diligent enough to come on time and play their role as representatives and engage in the discussions such that not only the representatives of major powers are heard but also the minority since the Model ASEM wants to stimulate equality among all nations.

Rayhan Khayr E. Hamad (Representative of Indonesia)

The Model ASEM is a window of opportunity for globally minded students to interact with one another and share views on how the most relevant issues of our time should be tackled. Since the students are leaders themselves and are chosen from a pool of qualified applicants, the forum ensures a diversity of intelligent opinions upon which a consensus will be made.

The student participants of the 2nd Model ASEM Forum in Manila, Philippines, regard the issue of human rights with the utmost value among the other issues discussed. As a developing country still striving for a democratic consolidation and political maturity, the students are well aware that issues such as human rights violations and unaccountability of the government still pervade the system. The students of the University of the Philippines are also globally minded citizens, and that is why they have represented well the interests and positions of their designated countries.

The 2nd Model ASEM was a remarkable success and a career highlight for the student participants. This simulation will ensure that the voices of the future members of the academia, government, and civil society are heard by the international community. As a participant, I suggest that the proceedings will be made available to the next organizers and participants in able for them to assess the process and make necessary modifications.