Two Politics and International Relations students from De Montfort University have put their diplomatic and analytical skills to the test at the BISA Climate Negotiation Simulation, hosted at Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs, in London.
The event brought together around 120 students from more than 30 universities across the UK to recreate a high-level UNFCCC COP-style climate negotiation, challenging delegates to navigate the complexities of global climate politics, climate finance, adaptation and emissions reduction.
Representing China, DMU students Cristina Quinonez and Daisy-Mae Addley engaged in a full day of intense negotiations, working through agenda-setting, drafting text, and building coalitions while defending the strategic interests of one of the world’s most influential climate actors.
Third-year student Daisy described the experience as both demanding and eye-opening:.
She said: “I applied for the simulation as it was something I was really wanted to learn about more deeply.
"Getting assigned the Chinese delegation was interesting, as we knew we would be at the centre of many negotiations and needed strong, authentic arguments.
"It was extremely rewarding to learn how policy is made in real life – and I even made some friends in the process.”
For Cristina, the simulation provided valuable insights into global diplomacy and climate politics: “This simulation was an amazing opportunity to experience how real-life climate conferences operate.
"Climate change is a particular interest of mine, so it was great to see first-hand how different countries work to implement change.
"Being allocated China was a challenge, but it helped me understand alternative standpoints on the climate crisis. I gained skills and experience that will be essential in any future career.”
The simulation, organised by the British International Studies Association (BISA) in partnership with Chatham House, mirrors the pressures, constraints and political realities that shape real UN climate negotiations.
Students worked under tight deadlines, built alliances across national delegations, and grappled with disagreements over emissions targets, adaptation indicators, and responsibility for climate finance.
For the DMU students, the event offered not only a chance to deepen their understanding of pressing global issues, but also to develop key professional skills in negotiation, research, diplomacy and policy analysis.
Events like this provide valuable opportunities for students to engage directly with real-world international politics, meet peers, academics, and practitioners from across the UK, and promote sustainability at DMU and beyond.
Cristina Quinonez and Daisy-Mae Addley during the Chatham House climate simulation event