Results of the III Samara Interuniversity Olympiad on Diplomatic Protocol and Etiquette “SamDiP-2025” Summarized

The III Samara Interuniversity Olympiad on Diplomatic Protocol and Etiquette “SamDiP-2025” took place at the Primakov Center. The event, supported by the Representative Office of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Samara, brought together students from four universities in the Samara region: Samara University, Samara State University of Economics (SGEU), Samara Branch of Moscow State Pedagogical University (MSPU), and Samara State Technical University (SamSTU).

Mikhail Leonov, Vice-Rector for Educational Work and Youth Policy at Samara University, delivered a welcoming speech to the participants, praising their dedication to mastering the nuances of protocol. Kristina Anatolyevna Kurbet, Chief Advisor of the State Protocol Department of the Russian MFA, emphasized the importance of such events for enhancing students’ understanding of diplomatic history and modern practices.

Participants’ ability to analyze case studies on organizing diplomatic visits and cross-cultural working meetings was evaluated by a high-profile jury led by Alexey Chupakhin, Representative of the Russian MFA in Samara.

The Olympiad comprised three stages, each testing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills:

1.    Stage One: Participants demonstrated their grasp of diplomatic history, key historical figures, and established norms of diplomatic practice. Teams also staged skits highlighting common protocol errors.

2.    Stage Two: Competitors tackled real-world scenarios requiring the application of diplomatic etiquette.

3.    Preparation: A series of lectures on the evolution of diplomatic protocol and etiquette was conducted by Ekaterina Voinova, Second Secretary of the Russian MFA Representative Office in Samara.

Results:

·         Overall Winner: Team “Mega” from Samara University, comprising Denis Zhidkov, Sarkis Shakhazizyan, Yermolay Mikhailov, and Alina Anisimova.

·         “Most Active Participant”: Alina Mironova (Samara University).

Winners received letters of appreciation from the Russian MFA Representative Office in Samara and commemorative prizes. An individual round was also held, with Samara University student Samira Ergasheva recognized for her exceptional preparation.

The Olympiad concluded with vibrant emotions, new insights, and memorable interactions. Participants not only showcased their expertise but also gained invaluable teamwork experience. The organizers extend gratitude to all participants, judges, and contributors for advancing knowledge of diplomatic protocol and etiquette.

We look forward to future events!

Text: Guzaliya Shakurova, Group 5201-460401D

Photo: Alexander Zaitsev, Group 5301-460301D