2021 is off to a busy start at the Ford School! We kicked off the Winter semester with the annual Integrated Policy Exercise (IPE). The IPE requirement is a three-day simulation requiring Ford students to collaborate, make decisions, and offer solutions to address a real world policy issue. 

This year, Fordies tackled the issue of climate-induced migration on the international stage in a simulation spearheaded by Professor Ann Lin. Participants assumed the roles of nations, non-governmental organizations, and media outlets as they worked to build consensus and determine the best approach for addressing climate change and responding to its impacts. 

Over winter break, students prepared policy memos and other documents to accurately represent their stakeholder’s views during the simulation. During the three-day activity, participants met with regional coalitions to discuss policy priorities before breaking off into negotiated task forces of like-minded nations and NGOs. 

At the conclusion of the event, students in the “UN General Assembly” approved three resolutions affirming the need to address climate change and proposed the convening of another conference to discuss the legal status of climate refugees. One resolution, championed by several nations focused on preserving state sovereignty, was defeated. 

The Ford School’s Integrated Policy Exercise gives students the chance to take a hands-on approach to the policy ideas they’ve discussed in their studies. It’s one of numerous ways the Ford School program provides students with the tools to become effective policy professionals. 

Stay tuned for more information on life here at the Ford School!