From Participation to Practice: Embedding Experiential Human Rights Education Through the Model UN and the UPR Project at BCU

Nazir, Amna (2025) From Participation to Practice: Embedding Experiential Human Rights Education Through the Model UN and the UPR Project at BCU. International Journal of Clinical Legal Education, 32 (3). pp. 21-41. ISSN 1467-1069

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Abstract

This article presents a reflective and practice-based analysis of the Model United Nations (Model UN) and Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Project at Birmingham City University, highlighting their role as an innovative approach to human rights education within legal studies. Against the backdrop of ongoing debates about curriculum reform and experiential learning in UK legal education, the article examines how simulation-based teaching methods can enhance students’ engagement with international human rights law, diplomacy, and accountability. Drawing on pedagogical theory and critical reflection, it explores the project’s design, intended learning outcomes, and potential to foster legal and civic competencies such as critical thinking, advocacy, and global awareness. It argues that initiatives such as Model UN and the UPR Project enable law students to move beyond abstract legal theory toward practical, values-based learning, preparing them for roles as globally aware, socially conscious legal professionals. The article concludes with recommendations for embedding experiential learning into the human rights curriculum as a strategy to enhance student engagement, civic literacy, and the professional relevance of legal education.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.19164/ijcle.v32i3.1795
Dates:	Date Event 1 December 2025 Accepted 18 December 2025 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Experiential learning, legal education, human rights, Model United Nations, Universal Periodic Review, clinical legal education
Subjects:	CAH16 - law > CAH16-01 - law > CAH16-01-01 - law
Divisions:	Law and Social Sciences > Law
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	15 Jan 2026 15:29
Last Modified:	15 Jan 2026 15:29
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16811

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