Use the following hypothetical simulation from Model Diplomacy to spark discussion and help students to think through what they would do if they were decision-makers.
Learning Goals
- Students will understand that deforestation is occurring in the Amazon, which contributes significantly to climate change.
- Students will understand that the United States can use economic statecraft in several ways to influence Brazil’s Amazon policy, but each comes with risks, as certain measures could be considered a violation of Brazil’s sovereignty.
The Situation
Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest contributes to climate change, and as the practice continues, the Amazon is nearing a tipping point that could endanger the entire rainforest. Countries around the world have an interest in stopping deforestation, but as the Amazon remains largely under Brazil’s control, doing so could challenge Brazilian sovereignty. How should the United States respond to deforestation in the Amazon?
About
Model Diplomacy is a free simulation program that invites students, educators, and professionals to step into the roles of decision-makers in the U.S. National Security Council (NSC) or UN Security Council (UNSC). Model Diplomacy simulations help students develop critical thinking, persuasive speaking and writing, and collaboration skills, all while giving them hands-on experience grappling with the challenges of our modern, globalized world.
CFR Education is an initiative within the Council on Foreign Relations that aims to make complex foreign policy and international issues accessible for middle, high school, and college students through its educational products: World101, Model Diplomacy, and Convene the Council.
