Universal Periodic Review (UPR) UK Model
Simulate the UN human rights review process, take on the roles of States or NGOs, and engage with international human rights in practice. This is the third Model UPR hosted in Europe and one of only a small number worldwide.
The Model UPR UK 2026 is made possible through the generous support of the Society of Legal Scholars and the Clark Foundation for Legal Education. We are grateful for their support of innovative, student-focused legal education initiatives.
Why take part?
Participating in the Model UPR UK 2026 will help you:
- Deepen your understanding of international human rights processes
- Develop skills in analysis, communication, and diplomatic simulation
- Work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
- Engage with global issues in a hands-on academic setting
This is a rare opportunity to bridge theory and practice in international human rights.
Key Dates and How to Apply
- Event dates: Thursday 21 May – Friday 22 May 2026
- Hosted by: University of Stirling
- Format: Two-day, in-person simulation with preparatory online training
- Cost: Participation is free of charge. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering their own travel and accommodation.
- Apply here: [Registration Form]
- Application deadline: Friday 20 February 2026
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Who can apply?
Applications are open to:
- Undergraduate students
- Master’s students
Students from law, politics, international relations, human rights, social sciences, and related disciplines are especially welcome, but all disciplines are eligible.
Teams must be able to commit to:
- preparatory activities in advance of the event
- attendance at one online training session
What is the Model UPR?
The Model UPR recreates the structure and core activities of the UN Universal Periodic Review in a supportive learning environment. It is not a mock trial, debate competition, or court.
Instead, it is a collaborative educational exercise designed to help students:
- understand how an international human rights mechanism operates in practice
- think from the perspectives of States and civil society actors
- engage with human rights issues through dialogue, process, and cooperation
No prior expertise in the UPR or international law is required - curiosity and engagement are what matter most. The Model UPR offers students a distinctive opportunity to engage with human rights, diplomacy, and international law in practice, working collaboratively as teams to simulate the core stages of a UPR review within a supportive academic setting.
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Training and key dates
Two online training sessions will be offered. All members of each team are expected to attend the same training session together.
Training will take place during:
- Week beginning 09 March 2026, or
- Week beginning 16 March 2026
Exact timings and preparatory materials will be shared with selected teams.
Roles and team composition
Teams apply for one of two roles:
State Teams
- 4 delegates per team
- 1 optional research delegate
- Each team represents one country
- Each State is reviewed once and acts as a recommending State in multiple rounds
NGO / NHRI Teams
- 2 delegates per team (with one designated speaker)
- Teams prepare a Stakeholder Report, present in the Pre-Session, and engage in lobbying
Role allocation: Teams indicate a role preference when applying. Organisers will make every effort to honour preferences; however, teams may be reassigned or split where necessary to ensure a balanced and effective simulation.
What will teams do?
Participating teams will:
- prepare briefing materials (such as National Reports or Stakeholder Reports)
- engage in pre-session activities and preparatory training
- take part in simulated review sessions, asking questions and making recommendations
- reflect on outcomes and the limitations of international human rights review