Held just outside our nation’s capital and adjacent to a host of embassies, governmental organizations, and think tanks, it is no surprise that the National Collegiate Security Conference (NCSC) reflects its culturally diverse and politically charged environment. The committees, which kicked off tonight at a running start, range in size and scope from more traditional GA bodies (such as the Organisation of African Unity) to small, crisis-driven historical simulations (such as Bismarck’s Cabinet).
Seemingly unwearied by their respective commutes to the conference, the delegates were keen to get their voices heard at tonight’s opening ses
Delegates discussing a directive in the Cabinet of the Republic of Biafra
The dais of the Federal Senate of Brazil overseeing delegates breaking off into groups by political affiliation
sions, drafting directives and passing notes at breakneck speeds, while the chairs and crisis staffers worked hard to keep the flow of debate cohesive and topical. As they adjusted to the unique formats of their committees, the delegates threw themselves into the various committee experiences—whether simulating a presidential election in Egypt, working as separate political parties in the Federal Senate of Brazil, or keeping their identities classified in the ad-hoc committee. A myriad of different debating and diplomatic styles was apparent within each body, and will no doubt prove both challenging and educational to delegates and staff across the board.
As the first day wound to a close, several crisis simulations were left with cliffhangers and other committees with burning points to discuss, the perfect set-up for another high-paced, dynamic day of debate tomorrow. Looking at these negotiations and discussions in action, you’d have no idea that just days ago and mere miles away the government was shut down—for within the walls of this hotel, governance and diplomacy are alive and well.
