On May 23, 2024, CISS Youth held the fifth “CISS Youth: Observing the World” series session. The theme of the event was “Policy Practice in Conflict Mediation and Prevention, and Career Development in International Relations.” The event was hosted by Ms. Huang Ying, PhD student from the Department of International Relations at Tsinghua University, with Ms. Xiao Qian, Deputy Director of CISS, as a special guest.
The keynote speaker for this session was Mr. Niu Qiyang, a PhD student from the Department of International Relations at Tsinghua University and a doctoral researcher at CISS. Niu has extensive experience in conflict mediation and prevention, having worked with international organizations such as the Swiss Center for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Drawing from his work in these organizations, Niu shared insightful experiences on topics such as the policy practice of conflict mediation and prevention, as well as career development in the field of international relations.
Niu emphasized that conflict mediation requires not only theoretical knowledge but also rich practical experience. He highlighted the importance of understanding specific conflicts or the countries and regions involved, as well as the ability to identify the right policies, spot opportunities, and promote dialogue. He further introduced the unique role played by the Swiss Center for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD) in international conflict mediation, focusing on the South China Sea Confidence-Building Project. This project aimed to ease maritime tensions in the region by fostering cooperation on issues such as maritime law enforcement and fisheries management. Niu candidly discussed the numerous challenges faced during this process, emphasizing the importance of carefully navigating geopolitical influences.
Additionally, Niu shared insights into career development paths within international organizations and international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), as well as the skills required. He underscored that project management skills are crucial for working in international organizations, noting that project planning involves considering factors such as logic, conflict analysis, strategic value, operational space, risk management, personnel allocation, and budgeting.
In the Q&A and discussion session, participants and speakers engaged in lively conversations on topics such as balancing the neutral stance of international organizations with national interests and resolving different types of disputes. Niu shared his personal experiences and techniques for building consensus among parties involved in conflicts, stressing the importance of taking a technical approach and striving to find the greatest common denominator that all parties can accept.
Ms. Xiao Qian provided an insightful commentary on Niu’s presentation, commending his contributions to international conflict mediation and highlighting the active role that young Chinese professionals play on the global stage. She encouraged the students to expand their international perspectives, enhance their professional skills, and contribute to world peace and development.