Coventry University students take part in Model NATO at the Foreign Office

Introduction

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit with political representatives and speak up for a country’s security and interests? For a group of Coventry University students, this became a reality at this year’s Model NATO simulation, held at the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in London on 25 February 2026.

The event brought together students from 28 universities across the UK, offering a rare opportunity to see first-hand how diplomacy works. Participants assumed the roles of delegates from NATO member states, responding to a simulated geopolitical crisis on the alliance’s eastern flank.

Representing Romania on the international stage

Coventry University students took the role of Romania, getting involved in negotiations, drafting policy responses, and contributing to strategic discussions. The simulation reflected the real-world diplomatic processes, challenging students to think critically and work effectively together under pressure.

For International Relations BA (Hons) student Jaewook Shin, the experience provided some great insights:

“It was a tremendous honour to visit the Foreign Office and take part in such a realistic diplomatic simulation. Working with delegates from other universities to refine amendments and reach consensus showed how important cooperation and careful negotiation are in international diplomacy.”

Learning beyond the classroom

Events like Model NATO help students bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application. Concepts explored in lectures (such as alliance politics, conflict resolution, and international security) are brought to life here, in an exciting yet realistic environment.

Second-year Politics and International Relations BA (Hons) student Moussa Barhardlle, who served as Head Delegate for Romania, spoke about how the day inspired her career aspirations:

“The drafting sessions demonstrated how much diplomacy, tone and coalition-building shape meaningful outcomes. Representing Romania at Model NATO reinforced my interest in pursuing a career in international security and defence policy.”

Building skills for future careers

Participating in Model NATO provides students with plenty of transferable skills. Negotiation, public speaking, strategic thinking and teamwork are just a few ways the experience helps prepare students for careers in international relations, government, and beyond.

Working with peers from across the UK also created valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with others who share an interest in global affairs.

A focus on experiential learning

Coventry University has regularly taken part in Model NATO since the programme began, reflecting its commitment to getting students those practical, career-focused learning experiences. Opportunities like this ensure that students are not only academically prepared but also confident in applying their knowledge in professional settings.

As global challenges continue to evolve, initiatives like Model NATO are really needed to develop the next generation of diplomats, policymakers, and leaders, ready to navigate the complexities of international security and cooperation.

If you’re interested in international relations and diplomacy, explore our Politics and International Relations courses and see how you could take part in experiences like Model NATO.