CUE IRD Students Explore Real-World Diplomacy During Field Visit to the United Nations in Erbil
As part of the Catholic University in Erbil’s (CUE) commitment to connecting academic learning with practical, real-world experience, undergraduate students from the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy (IRD) visited the United Nations compound in Erbil on October 29, 2025.
Led by Dr. Bewar Lateef and Dr. Anna Małgorzata, the field trip offered students a first-hand understanding of how international organizations operate within the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. The visit allowed students to link theoretical concepts discussed in class with the day-to-day work carried out by one of the UN’s most active and influential bodies in the region.
During the visit, officials from UNAMI and UNDP welcomed the students and provided an overview of the UN’s goals, structure, and key programs, including development initiatives, governance projects, election assistance, and the UN Volunteers program. These discussions helped students gain deeper insights into the UN’s role in post-conflict recovery, sustainable development, and its ongoing partnership with the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Students were then given the opportunity to engage directly with UN staff, asking questions about career paths, current challenges, and the complexities of working in international institutions.
The visit concluded with a guided tour of the UN compound, followed by refreshments and informal conversations. This final part of the trip allowed students to build meaningful connections and reflect on the skills and competencies required in diplomatic and international development careers.
Through experiences like this, CUE continues to strengthen its academic programs by creating pathways that connect classroom learning with global practice — preparing students to engage thoughtfully and professionally in international affairs.
