COPenhagen Youth Simulation: Democracy at risk in climate governance

COPenhagen Youth Simulation: Democracy at risk in climate governance

📍 Location: Studenterhuset, Købmagergade 52, 1150 København K
📅 Dates: November 6–7, 2025
🗣️ Language: English

Offered by Sustainary, People of 2050, and Actory, the COPenhagen Youth Simulation is a two-day hands-on experience where you get to explore how global climate decisions really happen.

Day 1 dives into the geopolitics of the green transition and the behind-the-scenes power plays shaping climate policy—giving you the knowledge and skills to understand the game before you play it.

Day 2 puts you in the action: step into the shoes of a country delegate, negotiate, debate, and defend your climate agenda in a real-life simulation of international climate talks. Practice public speaking, form alliances, tackle crises, and experience the thrill of making decisions that matter.

It’s more than a simulation—it’s your chance to bridge the gap between youth and real climate politics, gain hands-on experience, and connect with peers who care about the future.

Program

Day 1 — November 6 (13:30–17:30)

• 13:30–14:00 — Registration & welcome snacks
• 14:00–14:15 — Opening speech, partner introductions
• 14:15–15:00 — Workshop 1: The Geopolitics of Climate Change – By Lars Buur, Professor in Political Economy of Development at Roskilde University
• 15:00–15:20 — Long coffee break
• 15:20–16:05 — Workshop 2: From Global Acronyms to Local Action: Rethinking Climate Governance through Systems Thinking – By Christina Plesner Volkdal – PhD Researcher and Expert in Humanitarian Studies, Copenhagen Business School | External Lector, Roskilde University
• 16:05–16:15 — Small coffee break
• 16:15–16:30 — Session: Public Speaking & Negotiation Tactics
• 16:30–16:45 — Open Q&A
• 16:45–17:30 — Refreshments & Networking

Day 2 — November 7 (13:00–17:00)

• 13:00–13:15 — Opening session & role formation
• 13:15–14:00 — Delegation sparring time
• 14:00–14:30 — Opening Ceremony: Country speeches
• 14:30–15:00 — Crisis Scenario: A Political Shockwave Hits
• 15:00–15:45 — Negotiation Round 1: Can We Trust Each Other?
• 15:45–16:30 — Final Negotiation & Resolution Vote
• 16:30–17:00 — Debrief & Next Steps