IOCM Study Trip 2024

Day 1: Monday, March 25, 2024

Our study trip started on Monday, March 25, which we mostly spent on the UN Geneva Campus (UNOG). We started off at the United Nations Office for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), where we had enriching discussions which helped us grasp the responsibilities and functions of OCHA.

Next, we visited the Economic Commission for Europe (ECE). We discussed the potential of various items, from insulation to infrastructure, to have an impact on both economic and environmental wellbeing. As the ECE is credited for the clear water in Geneva's rivers and lake, it was eye-opening to hear about the ECE's important work in areas that are so often overlooked.

After lunch in the UNOG cafeteria, we received an introduction to the Human Rights Council which is responsible for promoting and protecting human rights by monitoring and addressing violations. One of the main works done is the Universal Periodic Review. We had the chance to watch and listen in on discussions during such a session.

The last station of the day was the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Here, we covered topics such as the challenges of the organization, those of working in the field and learned about career opportunities.

Overall, it was an insightful first day, during which we learned about the internal structure of the UN and the ICRC, and an inspiring start to the trip due to being at the UN headquarters.

Day 2: Tuesday, March 26, 2024

Our second day entailed a full agenda with diverse focus fields. We had the honor of visiting the World Trade Organization (WTO) and gaining an understanding of the organization’s operations. We learned how the WTO analyzes data which provides insights on trade policies and agreements. This helps the WTO provide policy makers with recommendations and promote a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding global trade policies. Then we received a captivating presentation on crucial environmental issues such as CO2 emissions in both emerging and developed nations.

Consequently, our cohort was warmly welcomed at the Permanent Mission of Ecuador to the United Nations. His Excellency Mr. Cristian Espinosa Cañizares imparted Ecuador’s position in the UN and how he endeavors to represent the perspective of his country in the international arena. With him and First Secretary Mr. Walter Schuldt, we talked about initiatives supported by Ecuador on key issue areas such as the pandemic, migration and biodiversity.

We ended the day at Interpeace, where we met the president, Mr. Kakoma, and his colleagues. We had the chance to hear about the personal journeys and visions of many of the staff members who emphasized the importance of peacebuilding, positive peace, and sustainable solutions. They underlined that even though the duration of peacebuilding processes is often criticized, it is the only right way to achieve global peace.

Overall, the second day of our study trip provided us with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in global trade with an emphasis on environmental aspects; modern diplomacy, and peacebuilding activities of non-state actors. It was a day filled with learning and meaningful interactions and we believe that we benefitted from each organization’s distinct perspectives on similar topics.

Day 3: Wednesday, March 27, 2024

We started our third day with an inspiring and powerful presentation of the Geneva International Center for Humanitarian Demining which offers policy support to states that are unable to begin the process of humanitarian demining on their own.

Then we visited the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) headquarters and had a discussion based on their work around the emergency policy and coordination in the crises that concern the various groups of displaced persons. We learned about the existing challenges of reaching remote areas, funding the institution, and equipping the staff.

Afterwards, we went to the World Health Organization (WHO), where we had a discussion on Health Emergencies Communications, mostly concerning how the COVID-19 pandemic was dealt with, both at the level of states and of international institutions. Next, we had a short but enriching session with a WHO Health Emergency Officer and Incident Manager, which was packed with valuable insights on major global health challenges such as the Gaza conflict.

Lastly, we had the privilege to visit the WHO’s Emergency Operation Center which houses the emergency operations team, the organization's disaster response team, and the epidemic alert and response team. It was very exciting to gain an insight into the processes and data of current crisis regions. We rounded off our day and trip with a lovely group dinner at an Ethiopian restaurant.

Conclusion

Overall, the study trip to Geneva proved to be a fruitful and invaluable experience, offering profound insights into the functioning of various IOs, NGOs, UN bodies and a permanent representation. The presentations highlighted the complexities of coordinating efforts on global issues such as human rights, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development. Further, it was inspiring to be in a city with so many opportunities to work in our field and talking about career opportunities with our interlocutors. On top of this, it helped us students to reflect on the reality of our chosen field. The variety of profiles with whom we interacted gave us food for thought on the positives and negatives of global governance. It was an excellent reminder of the complexity of the system and the need to be open minded to different approaches.

We all profited greatly from this experience for our studies and careers. We are most thankful to all the efforts by the speakers and our Professor, Mr. Kreuder-Sonnen.

This study trip was only made possible by the generous contributions of our friends and partners, Ernst Abbe FoundationExternal link, City of JenaExternal link, and the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences at Friedrich Schiller University Jena.