Topic Overview Amsterdam 2020

“The Authoritarians Next door: Since Belarus’ fraudulent presidential election in August 2020, protests have raged in the country and state forces have committed countless human rights abuses against Belarusian citizens. What approach should the EU take in response to these events, with a view to promoting democracy in Belarus and ensuring safety and protection for the country’s population?”

“Domestic violence on the rise: according to the Council of Europe, the policies of isolation and confinement implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have led to increased levels of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence, with women vastly more likely to be victims. What steps can the EU take to protect and provide solutions for those unsafe in their own homes?”

“Racism at work: According to a report by the European Network Against Racism, people belonging to ethnic minorities have a much higher unemployment rate and are overrepresented in certain job positions or sectors. What can the EU do to address and prevent racial discrimination in recruitment?”

“Decolonising fast fashion: The abuse of human and labour rights is rife in the fast fashion industry, and many brands have been refusing to pay their garment workers in the wake of the pandemic. With 80% of the 74 million textile workers worldwide being women of colour, these unethical practices implicate layers of injustice. What can the EU do to eradicate such practices and improve worker protection while keeping clothing accessible to customers?”

“Privacy or public health: Where controlling the pandemic in order to protect citizens’ health appears often to come at the expense of those citizens’ privacy, governments must walk a thin line. What should the EU do in order to minimise the impact of the pandemic while taking into account the right to privacy of all citizens?”