Call for Bidders for World University Debating Championships 2015‏

We are now only five short months away from our trip to Berlin, an event for which I'm sure we share similar anticipation. Between now and then, however, there's much work to be done including that we need to begin working on finding our host for the 2015 World Universities Debating Championships.

It would be better not to repeat the circumstances of last year's bidding process. Council is better able to consider bids when they can thoroughly vet them, interact with the potential hosts and discuss the merits of each in the Council setting. In short, considering bids at the Council meeting is far preferable to making the decision once delegates have returned to their respective homes. That can't happen, obviously, unless there are bidders.

We were fortunate, in the end, to have two outstanding bids from which to choose for 2014. It was tempting to imagine that the unsuccessful bid would rally to resubmit for the following year. However Chulalongkorn University of Bangkok does not intend to bid for the 2015 World Championships. Their window of opportunity was for 2014 and mounting a reprise of their bid is impossible. This unfortunately often happens and while a pity that Chulalongkorn can't repeat their excellent bid we should thank them for their efforts for 2014.

If you are part of a debating society that you believe could host Worlds then please give some consideration to bidding. It is extremely hard work but very rewarding and a great event for the college, society and individuals involved. There are lots of people out there who are willing to advise and guide you. Certainly I will be happy to answer any questions and give any help I can (e-mail me at colm_flynn@hotmail.com). If you are interested but not willing to go public or commit to anything then be assured that any conversations we have will be in the strictest confidence.