In a continued effort to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical experience, LusoGlobe’s GIRI-hub Lab collaborated with Uppsala University to host the 4th edition of the Nuclear Strategy Simulation. This event, held over several days in October, allowed students to engage directly with complex, real-world issues involving the potential use of nuclear power in international crises.
The simulation provided an immersive learning experience where participants assumed the roles of state delegations. This year’s scenario involved critical diplomatic negotiations on the backdrop of a nuclear threat posed by Russia, exploring topics such as deterrence, coercive diplomacy, and crisis management.
One of the most striking developments in this edition was the shift towards minilateral negotiations, where delegations favored smaller, more focused partnerships over larger, multilateral frameworks. This trend added a new dynamic to the diplomatic process, demonstrating how real-world actors might behave in such high-stakes situations.
Sabrina Medeiros, who leads the GIRI-hub Lab and spearheaded this simulation, emphasized the importance of these exercises in helping students develop key skills for international diplomacy. "Through these simulations, students gain firsthand experience in strategic thinking, decision-making under pressure, and understanding the ethical dimensions of security and defense," she stated.
Key objectives of the simulation included enhancing:
- Negotiation skills within various diplomatic formats,
- The ability to balance emotional and rational decision-making,
- And deepening the understanding of deterrence and coercive diplomacy.
Participants also benefited from close interaction with Prof. Jonathan Hall and his team at Uppsala University, whose collaboration has been instrumental in making this event a success.
This simulation marks an important milestone in the partnership between LusoGlobe and Uppsala University and reflects GIRI-hub’s ongoing commitment to developing innovative educational tools for international relations students, including the AJAPT software and method.
As this year’s simulation draws to a close, we look forward to continuing this fruitful collaboration and preparing the next generation of diplomats and strategists.
