In the beginning nobody uploaded a candidature for the Mediation Commission (MedCom), but things have changed and now it is time to share the interview with the third candidate for the MedCom, Maurits Korse from AEGEE-Enschede.
The AEGEEan: Why would you like to join the MedCom?
Maurits: I would like to join the Mediation Commission because I believe that I am capable of strengthening the team with my experience in mediation, for example in cases on the local level. Also, I see the Mediation Commission as a challenge. Not only when it is activated, but also in a proactive way. And I want to continue what the previous Mediation Commission initiated. Giving good and objective advice is not always an easy task, but it is an interesting job that I like doing.
What does the MedCom mean to you?
Maurits: The Mediation Commission is a commission which is an objective party within AEGEE and can therefore help out in issues without being related in any way. It is an embodiment of just decisions and balanced opinions in the best interest of the parties involved as well as the entire Network. To achieve this, a proper mix of people that make up the Mediation Commission is needed so that the Commission can have a better understanding of different opinions and views from the parties involved. Besides that, MedCom is a commission where important matters can stay safe and thus questions or advice can be asked for without any expectations, consequences or talks.
How would you explain the MedCom to AEGEEans who are unaware what it is?
Maurits: The Mediation Commission is a commission of AEGEE-Europe that tries to mediate between locals and other bodies (such as CD, JC and Audit) when there are problems. When mediation is necessary between two of those bodies, the Mediation Commission can be asked to intervene. Also when mediation in the mild sense of the word is not efficient enough, the Mediation Commission can help to find the best solution for those bodies, and an official case can then be initiated. An official case of the Mediation Commission can result in a verdict and sentence can be determined. This has to be ratified by the Agora to control the (sometimes) high-impact decisions. It is however in the best interest of everyone involved when the Mediation Commission is not asked for advice too late. Often it is best to involve the Mediation Commission in an early stage of a dispute to prevent the issue from escalating and leading to unexpected and unwanted results. Of course any member can always ask the Mediation Commission for advice before any steps are made. Every consultation is private.
What characteristics should the most suitable person for the MedCom have in your opinion?
Well I think there are several characteristics that are specifically important for the Mediation Commission. First of all being able to view and understand the different sides and opinions in a dispute. And not only be able to see them but to relate to all of them equally and value them objectively. Another important characteristic is being able to keep things private: from the smallest to the biggest issues. Last but not least is the ability to balance a verdict and sentence in the best way so that all interests, of the parties involved, but also of the Network, are taken into account. In general, something that applies to many commissions and teams is of course being able to work in a team, trust each other, communicate properly, being able to put your personal opinions aside, and so on.
What AEGEE experience do you have so far?
Maurits: I have been a member since 2006 and in the first few years of my membership I have been active mostly on local level within several committees. Two years ago I have been president of my local and the year after, I was one of the main organisers of Spring Agora Enschede. My European level experience started a little later, around 2008, when I joined PR European School 2. After that I joined the Public Relations Working Group (former Public Relations Committee of which I have been in the speaker team). After that I started to become more and more involved on the European level with Key to Europe, for example, and some publications like Beyond Europe. Last year in Agora Skopje I ran for a position in the Summer University Coordination Team of which I have been a proud member this year.
What are your plans for your future AEGEE career?
Maurits: Well, the Mediation Commission term lasts for one year. In that term I will have to maintain my objectivity, so I do not see myself getting involved in other bodies or organisational structures. However I am very much in favour of a good project considering European democracy and the European Parliament elections in 2014 (almost one hundred years after the First World War started!), so I would like to give my thoughts and ideas on that. Also I might be giving some unrequested advice or do some on-the-side IT and design jobs so now and then. However I hope I will have some time left for my hobbies. What I will do after my Mediation Commission term, I have no idea yet. I will see what life brings me.
How would you encourage others to run for MedCom?
Maurits: Do you like… no, LOVE AEGEE?
Has AEGEE given you many great moments, experiences and new friends?
Are you also someone who likes to help others out and solve problems? And do you see this as a challenge?
Surprise! The Mediation Commission is the commission to join. The more diversity there is within the team, the better. So if you think you are not the right one, but you still read until this point, you probably are the right person to run! I cannot wait to see your application!
The AEGEEan: Thank you for your time Maurits! Good luck with your candidature!
Written by Stephanie Müller, AEGEE-Heidelberg