Around 60 students from Armenia embarked on discussions and negotiations on the importance of cyber security in a globalized world, and possible OSCE action at a two-day Model OSCE Conference that started today in Yerevan.   

The Model OSCE Conference is an exercise during which the work of the Permanent Council, the main decision-making body of the OSCE, is simulated, with students playing roles of representatives of OSCE participating States and bodies. The aim of the initiative is to educate students about the OSCE and give them an opportunity to experience first-hand the challenges of international diplomacy in action. 

This time, the conference participants will discuss and suggest a course of  action to tackle the challenge posed by an internet grouping calling itself “The Shadow”, which threatens the security of the region, inflicting substantial harm to hypothetical OSCE participating States of Kartonia, Syland and Lotyko.

“In our interconnected world, people and institutions in participating States of the OSCE, rely on the Internet for everything. We look forward to hearing innovative ideas and fresh views on possible ways of countering cyber threats, which the OSCE places high on its agenda,” said Carel Hofstra, the Acting Head of the OSCE Office in Yerevan. “At the same time, negotiating a common approach to combating cyber crime requires from participants the application of diplomatic and negotiation skills, and their development is another objective of the Model OSCE initiative. 

Prior to the conference, participants were trained in public speaking and negotiation skills, and also participated in thematic workshops on the OSCE, international relations and diplomacy, as well as cyber crime.  

Nvard Sununu, who played the role of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, said: "The simulation exercise hits three targets at the same time: it presents the role of OSCE in the international relations, informs young people of a certain problem, and provides them with a unique opportunity to learn and develop debating, negotiating and public speaking skills.”

The OSCE Office in Yerevan has been holding Model OSCE Conferences since 2008.