Libertarian Society: Vice President

I would like to nominate myself for the position of UCL Libertarian Society Vice-President. Having come to study in the UK from Russia, I have developed a strong appreciation for the importance of protecting personal freedoms and civic rights and maintaining clear limits on governmental power. Growing up in a political environment where meaningful public debate is largely constrained made me particularly aware of grave effects that an unchecked state power can have on pluralism. This experience has shaped my commitment to free speech, limited government and individual liberty. Since arriving at UCL, I have noticed that political discussion on campus can sometimes feel constrained, and that there are relatively few platforms dedicated to and defending the principles that I stand with. That is why the creation/revival of Libertarian Society was particularly important for me and something I was very glad to see in our university.

For this reason, I find the mission of this society particularly compelling to me. I would like to be a part of this project and contribute to developing and growing its presence on campus, supporting its activities, helping to organise events and discussions, and strengthening it as a space for open, thoughtful debate about issues surrounding us today.

I once had a picture of Margaret Thatcher on my wall to remind me to hold on strongly to my beliefs and to remind me of how politicians once had substance, not just form. This is exactly what I aim to bring to the Libertarian Society as Vice President.

As VP, my objectives are:

Rapid Expansion of Membership – I will assist the President in broadening our reach as a new society through more events, increased social media presence and more socials

Partner with Other Societies – Host joint events with other societies to support our goal of free speech for every society in the SU

Champion Free Speech – Protect the right to free speech, even if I privately disagree with the idea, while challenging its abuse

Build Transferrable Skills – Run workshops in public speaking and debating so our members are better equipped to express their opinions and challenge the consensus effectively

Our society has been off to an exceptional start so far and we hope to continue this success into the next year!