The Franco-British debate aims to stimulate discussion on issues which both divide and bring the two countries closer. Via themed debates, the FBCP aims to deepen the understanding of the links between France and Britain, and explore the dynamics of their relations in the 21st century. The chosen debate format is that of the ‘Paris V’: two competing teams adopt opposing standpoints on the topic being discussed. The teams’ performance will be evaluated on the basis of the quality of the arguments and the manner of their delivery.
Cultural Differences (Gallery)
The 2012 Edition gathered two teams representing France and Britain. They took part in this dynamic, gastronomical debate where they defended their national drinks. The traditional Celtic Pub, Patrick’s le BallonVert, in the 11th arrondissement provided the perfect setting for this lively yet lighthearted debate.
Both teams took to it with gusto giving impressive speeches in English even if it wasn’t always their first language. Their well thought out arguments impressing a panel of judges consisting of Stephen Clarke, a British author living in France, well known for his book “A Year in the Merde”, Jean-Pascal Sibiet, the President of the Franco-British Comparative Project and Diane de Courcel, a debating expert.
After a fierce contest, the debate was opened to the floor before the judges returned to declare Britain the victor and therefore beer the new wine.
Freedom of Press (Gallery)
The 2011 Edition gathered, at the Residence of the British Ambassador to Paris, two passionate teams over one motion “This House believes that the United Kingdom promotes greater freedom of press than France”;
France Won: Estelle Fomeju, Maud Koenig O’Carrol, Tarek Bacha & Omar Layachi.
The Jury was composed as follows:
Julia Handelman-Smith (President) British Council France
Eric Maurice PressEurop.eu
James Barr British Embassy & formerly The Telegraph
Declan McCavana French Debating Association and Ecole Polytechnique