From 25 to 27 March 2025, students from the BA Global Trade and Business (GTB) course at the University of Westminster took learning beyond the classroom with a wonderful trip to Geneva, Switzerland – the heart of global diplomacy and trade. The experience allowed students to engage directly with major international organisations, generating a deeper understand of trading activities in real world.
Insights into Global Diplomacy at the United Nations (UNOG)
Students visited the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) at the Palais des Nations.
They learned about the UN’s work in promoting peace, sustainable development, and global cooperation. The visit showed students how closely linked diplomacy, trade, and business really are. It gave them a new appreciation of the skills needed to navigate complex global issues – a key learning objective of the Global Trade and Business course. Students observed how the meetings went on in the UN, and learnt about some potential working opportunities there.
Exploring the World Trade Organisation (WTO)
Timothy Adamson, the External relations officer at WTO delivered a presentation to students, helped them to understand how global trade negotiations work, the challenges facing the multilateral trading system, and the role the WTO plays in shaping global economic policy. For many students, it was the first time they could see how the concepts taught on the Global Trade and Business course apply to real-world negotiations.
Real-World Learning Beyond the Classroom
Students participated in reflections and discussions, connecting their academic knowledge with what they witnessed first-hand. By linking theory to practice, students deepened their understanding of global supply chains, trade disputes, and cross-border business challenges. They also developed valuable soft skills such as communication, cultural awareness, and adaptability — essential qualities for any future leader in global trade and business.
This international visit highlights the unique strength of the Global Trade and Business course at Westminster. By offering experiences like the Geneva trip, Westminster ensures students gain both academic knowledge and practical exposure.
Access to world-class institutions like the WTO and UN is rare for undergraduate students. It gives our GTB students a distinct advantage as they prepare for careers in international business, trade negotiation, and diplomacy.
To Conclude
The Geneva trip offered a powerful reminder of why real-world experiences are vital for today’s students. The BA Global Trade and Business course continues to stand out by offering students the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
We are proud of our students for representing Westminster professionally, and we look forward to continuing to provide opportunities that help them thrive.
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