Why study politics, international relations, culture and media with us?
The University of East Anglia is one of the best Universities to study politics, international relations, culture and media. Here are some reasons why.
The New Libya
Muammar Gaddafi fell from power in 2011 after a 42 year rule. Dr. Johan Franzen considers the new Libya that has emerged. [one_half]News of the abduction of Libya's Prime Minister, Ali Zeidan, recently made the headlines around the world. The former human rights lawyer, who for decades fought against Qaddafi's regime…
It’s Parliament Week: A cause for celebration, education, but most importantly, critique?
Dr. Toby James argues that Parliament Week is an important opportunity for public to critically reflect on whether Parliament is fit for purpose and how it needs to be reformed. It's Parliament Week! What's that? Well, Parliament Week, as its website tells us is: [quote] a UK-wide programme of events and…
It’s in the bag: Parliament could be better connected to the people through a petitions select committee
Alexandra Runswick, Director of Unlock Democracy, argues that setting up a petitions committee could help connect citizens to directly parliament. [one_half]What exactly is Parliament's role in public engagement as distinct from MPs connecting with their constituents? Should an MP always be the first port of call or should people be able to…
Putting Parliament at the core of national life
Charles Clarke, visiting Professor at the University of East Anglia, considers how Parliament could be put at the heart of national life. [one_half]Most events of national interest pass through Parliament, and get consideration there, in some form or another. Indeed on any given weekday, it is likely that the majority…
Too many clever-dicks in Westminster
Douglas Carswell MP argues that the front benches of Parliament are dominated by politicians more concerned about presentation than principle. [one_half]The longer I have been in Parliament, the more I realise that those on either front bench actually have rather a lot in common. I don't just mean that they…
An immodest proposal to revolutionise an ailing institution: ‘Guardians for future generations’
Dr. Rupert Read argues that parliamentary democracy needs to be reformed so that future generations are formally represented. [one_half]This week, UEA Philosophy, Politics and Law Departments will be putting on a ‘Philosopher-Kings?’ event on the subject of “Is Parliament fit for purpose?”: This will take place on Fri Nov 15th at…
My Internship in the Cabinet Office – Adib Chowdhury
Adib Chowdhury was one of six students who undertook placements at the Cabinet Office recently organised by PSI. He reflects on how the placement helped him think about his future career plans. Although I had no prior knowledge of the SME team, I quickly discovered that there was more to working…
My Internship in the Cabinet Office – Oliver Watson
Oliver Watson was one of six PSI students who undertook placements during the Summer of 2013. He reflects on how the placement helped him think about his future career plans. My time at the Cabinet Office was a fascinating experience in which I was able to see the role of…
Is Parliament fit for purpose? Select Committee Reforms means that it has never been more so.
Richard Bacon MP argues that Parliament is fit for purpose. The Wright reforms have re-invigorated Select Committees allowing them to hold the executive and senior public officials to account. [one_half]Is Parliament fit for purpose? Asking this question of any organisation implies there is a problem – that the organisation can no…