Diplomacy has long been dominated by established elites, but Romania’s ARPD is working to give the next generation a seat at the table.

Diplomacy is often associated with ambassadors, political legislatures, international forums, and government officials. Yet the decisions shaping future policies affect the very generation too often absent from the conversations informing them.

Acknowledging the gap in youth participation in diplomacy, Asociația de Reprezentare și Proiecte Diplomatice (ARPD) was established in 2025 as a youth-led Romanian nonprofit dedicated to advancing civic engagement, diplomatic participation, and leadership development. Founded by Dragoș Bârlădianu and Cristiana Oancea, ARPD aims to combine academic training with hands-on experience in education, diplomacy, social innovation, and cross-cultural engagement. Through educational initiatives and opportunities for dialogue, ARPD works to empower young people to participate meaningfully in their communities, build connections in international affairs, and develop the skills needed to engage on the global stage.

At the center of ARPD’s work is Timișoara International Model United Nations (TimișoaraMUN), a conference that introduces students to diplomatic negotiation, real-world challenges, and the complexities of global decision-making. One of Romania’s largest student-led Model United Nations conferences, TimișoaraMUN is scheduled to return for its second edition from November 27 to 29, 2026, at the British International School of Timișoara.

Featuring committees focused on UNICEF, UNHCR, Interpol, and NATO, the three-day conference aims to welcome more than 200 delegates to discuss complex global issues, strengthen their public speaking and negotiation skills, and deepen their understanding of foreign affairs.

Beyond the conference, ARPD’s broader mission centers on creating sustained opportunities for young people to pursue civic engagement and international collaboration. With several chapters across Romania, ARPD organizes moot court simulations, European mobility initiatives, and international collaboration across several continents.

As ARPD seeks to expand its international presence, its office in Washington state, led by Founding Executive Director Catarina Pîrvu, is working to strengthen connections among youth communities in Kenya, Germany, Switzerland, and the wider United States. These efforts explore opportunities for global collaboration, cultural exchange, international research, and shared approaches to civic engagement, linking local participation to broader international perspectives.

As it continues to develop, ARPD represents a growing community of people seeking to make diplomacy and civic engagement more accessible to the next generation. By fostering opportunities for global dialogue, collaboration, and practical learning, the organization aims to ensure that young people are not only exposed to international affairs but also equipped with the skills to help shape them.