This morning started off like it commonly does, I was running behind. After meeting my friends, we walked to Union Station where we took the metro to Dupont Circle. Our seminar class was meeting at the Embassy of the Republic of Serbia to hear from Djerdj Matkovic, the First Counselor. Mr. Matkovic spoke about Serbia and their four main policy goals for the future. In 1992, the governments of Serbia and Montenegro claimed their independence from Yugoslav. The policy goals of the Republic of Serbia are: European integration, retain Kosovo in Serbia, even though they have claimed independence, regional cooperation and reconciliation, and economic development. The speaker explained the Serbia-Kosovo conflict to us, which was much easier to understand, coming from a person who was from that area, compared to the readings we do for class. Serbia's goal is to be emitted to the European Union by 2016, but realistically, it may not be until 2018. Membership to NATO is considered to be a long-term goal that will hopefully ensure security to Serbians in the future. Because Serbia is a small country that lacks funds to put towards the military, joining NATO will potentially ensure protection. I thought this speaker was interesting and very informative. Reading the conflicts of countries in books never paints the image of what is really happening and seems unreal. When you hear the story from a person that understands the history, knows the problems the country faces, and proposes a strategy that is attainable, the conflicts become real and the images become imprinted in your mind. Before this semester, I had no prior knowledge of the Republic of Serbia, but in the future I will follow their progress in their policy aspirations and hope to see them continue to develop.
Following the speaker, our class traveled back to Tenley's campus where we had class for the remainder of the afternoon. We have learned the basics of international law and organizations thus far, which is all new information to me. Coming from a background primarily focused towards constitutional law in the United States, I am trying to learn as quickly as possible.
So far, I am enjoying my experience in Washington, DC. I have already made friends that I know will be long lasting and living in the city has definitely taught me so much. Everyday I contemplate my plans for this summer, because I already want to stay here. I know this city presents many experiences that will help guide me in the future, especially while deciding what I want to do with the rest of my life.
