I am delighted to share the first volume of the Epsom Current Affairs Journal, titled Conflict & Cooperation. This student-led journal showcases the curiosity, insight, and dedication of our students as they explore both global and local issues, from international conflicts to humanitarian challenges and institutional failings.
This term, our students have tackled complex topics with thoughtfulness and originality. Adele F. (Year 12) reflects on the tensions between wealth, influence, and justice, offering a compelling reminder of how power can bend rules and weaken democracy. Similarly, Arman I. (Year 12) looks at the impact of US threats towards Greenland, considering what this means for allies and the Greenlandic people. Meanwhile, Dahlia M. (Year 10) draws thought-provoking parallels between US intervention in Venezuela and 1930s appeasement. Deria M. (Year 12) explores the role of the United Nations, comparing its responses to humanitarian crises such as the Haitian earthquake with its handling of political conflicts like the Syrian Civil War.
Other students examine conflict through more regional and thematic lenses. Nang Y. (Year 12) investigates how drug production and distribution continue to shape Myanmar’s civil war and affect South East Asia, while Sitt H. (Year 12) considers the human cost of the Russo-Ukrainian conflict and its prospects for peace. Jit C. (Year 12) explores structural failings within the UN and draws parallels with the League of Nations, and Katelyn O. (Y12) reflects on how historic architecture has been affected by tensions along the Thailand–Cambodia border. Ravishanker S. (Year 12) examines the role of religious narratives in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, and Umar M. (Year 12) looks at the Chagos Islands, highlighting how legal rulings often reflect colonial boundaries rather than post-colonial realities.
I would also like to give special recognition to our journal leadership team, Ravishanker S. (Editor-in-Chief), Nang Y. (Editor), and Katelyn O. (Layout Designer), whose guidance and dedication have brought this publication to life.
Conflict & Cooperation celebrates our students’ insight, creativity, and analytical skills. We are very much looking forward to the next volume, Growth and Greed, and to welcoming new writers as students continue to explore and discover more about the world we live in. We warmly encourage parents to explore the first volume themselves by following this link: Epsom Current Affairs Journal – Volume 1.
Mr Dominic Walmsley
History & Politics Teacher