Oxford Debates

The Oxford Debates at Asia Society Switzerland are a format to address ‘big’ questions that have no one answer or solution but are inviting many conflicting views. Four renowned experts in the field form teams of two, one team arguing for the motion, the other against it.

The Oxford-style format is broken down into four sections: opening remarks, rebuttals, a moderated question-and-answer session, and closing remarks. Before and after the debate the audience is polled whether they agree with the motion or not. The voting breakdown is not shared publicly until the end of the debate. The greater percentage change between the first and second votes determines the debate’s winning team.

Disclaimer: Positions presented in the debates do not necessarily represent the speakers’ views.

Upcoming Oxford Debates

Coming soon.

Previous Oxford Debates

Oxford Debate: Will Europe Choose the U.S. Over China?

Tuesday, October 06, 2020, 12:00-13:00

Oxford Debate: Do North Korea and South Korea Want Reunification?

Thursday, August 27, 2020, 14:00-15:00

Oxford Debate: One Year After the Elections, Is the Modi Government Delivering on Its Promises?

Wednesday, May 27, 2020, 14:00-15:00