politics course personal statement

Sample Personal Statement for Political Science

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to several top graduate schools in political science. Variations of this PS got accepted at Duke, UCLA, and NYU. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in political science should look like.

Sample Personal Statement for Graduate School in PoliSci

It was not until I studied the introductory “Political Thought” course during my undergrad that I discovered my passion for political philosophy. Studying ancient and modern political thought allowed me to get introduced to the thought experiments of political thinkers to construct novel political concepts. This enabled me to relate the theory to other branches of political science. However, the courses I studied at the undergrad level were introductory, hence, not enough to quench my thirst for philosophical thinking.  

The best thing that happened to me because of studying these courses was that I started thinking along the lines of philosophy. After my undergrad, I engaged in various endeavors, which also included working as an HR Manager. However, the intrigue that originated after studying the Political Thought courses kept pushing me towards further academic pursuits. I applied to the program of MA Political Science at Central European University and got in. It was here that I discovered that I needed to cover immense ground in Political Theory. The fortunate thing was that I was not confused about the line I was supposed to tread, which was political theory.

Therefore, I opted for the same line and selected electives accordingly. In the mandatory course of Political Theory, I got introduced to more profound philosophies, particularly related to liberal egalitarianism. I hadn’t read those theories before, and the start of the course was not as rosy as it was in the courses of Political Thoughts back in my bachelor’s. However, my professor, Dr. Moles, encouraged all students to participate in the rigorous debates surrounding those philosophies.

The whole process happened to be very enriching. My brain started working in that direction, and I kept philosophizing about different political ideas even during my leisure time. The unfortunate thing that happened during this course was the aggravated anxiety I was going through. The condition took a toll on my studies, and I had to seek help from the medical center at my university. There was a time when I thought I would not be able to complete my master’s. However, thanks to the encouragement of my professors and peers, I was soon back on track amid psychological challenges. After studying political theory courses from Moles, Miklosi, and Kis, I concluded that I wanted to conceptualize responsibility in egalitarian distributive justice. It was mainly due to my reading of luck egalitarianism. Under the guidance of Professor Moles, I completed my thesis on the topic of “Individual Choice and Responsibility in the Backdrop of Just Institutions.”

After my master’s, teaching was the first option that occurred to me. Therefore, I sought employment in higher-education-teaching and got employed as a lecturer. It has been a challenging yet enriching experience. I am still teaching in the same organization. I teach courses ranging from qualitative research methods to International Relations (IR). I enjoy teaching IR courses, and the most exciting thing about them is that my knowledge of political theory helps me have a profound understanding of global political issues.  

In addition to the intrigue of engaging in different philosophical debates, teaching various courses and applying my theoretical knowledge galvanize me to further advance my understanding. The important thing is that I want to produce coherent research along the lines of political and social theory. For this to happen, it is imperative to pursue a doctorate. If I get the chance to enter a doctorate, I shall research along the lines of the Theory of Justice, Liberal Rights, Marxist critique on liberal rights, etc. I am also writing a research paper on “The Moral Status of Potential Immigrants from the Rawlsian Original Position.” The topic has the potential to be converted into comprehensive doctorate research.

Numerous universities in the USA have excellent political theory faculty, and many are working in my area of interest. If I get the opportunity, I shall be able to pursue my interest in becoming a teacher and researcher. I have survived the events which could have instilled hopelessness in me. However, on the contrary, my determination shows that I have cultivated enough resilience to tread the trajectory toward my passion.

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• Politics Personal Statement Examples

The following 3 personal statement examples for politics are for inspiration and guidance for students who are applying to politics at UK universities. These examples will give you a sense of the structure of personal statements for politics. Also, the tone is appropriate to use for university applications. 

Hopefully, political personal statement examples will help you write a compelling statement that will help you stand out as an applicant for a political course.

Personal Statement Examples for Politics

We are all affected by politics, and to ignore it is to be in the dark about how the world works. People have acquiesced to unjust institutions and unfair political practices because of ignorance of politics. I am interested in studying Politics so that I can gain the knowledge and analytical skills to understand the workings of the world and therefore inform the public about pervasive injustice as a foreign correspondent or political reporter.

As evidenced by my A-Level English Literature results, I have a gift for language and understanding texts. Due to my talent, I initially decided to study Literature and American Studies. Although I began these studies, I found Literature to be too detached from reality and unable to help me understand politics or fulfil my ambitions. After much reflection, I made the difficult decision to withdraw and pursue my primary interests closer to home.

My reading for American Studies, however, was very helpful in helping me gain an understanding of American politics, a subject I am looking forward to studying at university. Because of America’s unrivalled power, no one is untouched by its politics, which makes it the most important to understand all national politics. Moreover, the pace of political change and the polarisation of the parties make for fascinating reading, especially through the lens of the Huffington Post, my favourite American news outlet. Barely 2 years following Obama’s victory, Republicans are back on the offensive, winning control of Congress with the support of the ‘Tea Party movement. I’d like to learn more about how such religious grass-roots groups can coexist with established political parties in the setting of one of the world’s most secular constitutions.

In its foreign policy announcements, America sometimes uses the word democracy loosely. As well, I am interested in studying Democratic Theory to better understand how democracy has triumphed in the West and its pros and cons. I am a member of the Electoral Reform Society, which seeks to find a more representative electoral system that better reflects the wishes of voters in the UK. In reading Plato’s Republic for Philosophy A-Level, I have become aware that democracy may have deeper, intrinsic weaknesses. The anti-democracy argument of Plato has some problems, since it seems to only apply to direct democracies and assumes that philosopher-kings are apt to rule. However, his benevolent tyranny model still has appeal, which may explain why democracy has not yet reached every country, much to the chagrin of Washington.

By studying philosophy at A-Level, I have improved my argumentative skills and learned how to present clear and logical arguments. My political essays or seminars at university will benefit from this knowledge when I argue my case. On the other hand, my History A-Level has prepared me for understanding the genesis of contemporary political events through historical research skills.

Aside from school, I am preparing myself for university life and my future career by pursuing an internship at BBC Look East and volunteering for the Green Party. I plan to become very politically active at university. I’d want to join the student union and advocate for Green Party ideas. To better prepare myself for the media world, I would also like to write for and help edit a student newspaper.

I am committed to using my education and extracurricular experiences at university to not only gain the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field of journalism, but also to cultivate compassion within myself. This increased sense of empathy will drive me to actively seek out and bring to light instances of injustice, with the ultimate goal of creating a more equitable and fair society.

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As someone who has been surrounded by political discussion and debate from a young age, it is no surprise that politics is a subject that I am deeply passionate about. My parents’ involvement in local council affairs sparked my interest in the subject, and I have been fortunate enough to gain valuable work experience as an intern at the Home Office in London.

During my time at the Home Office, I had the opportunity to work closely with senior officials and meet with ambassadors from various countries, including Germany, India, and the United States. These experiences only served to further fuel my ambition to pursue a degree in politics. I am particularly interested in studying the sociological context of politics and understanding how human social behaviour shapes and is shaped by a country’s political structure. I am also intrigued by the various social issues that have political significance, such as race, gender, national identity, the environment, and the impact of new technologies.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have also been active in extracurricular activities that have helped to develop my leadership and management skills. I have held several positions of responsibility, including head of the boarding house at my junior school, captain of the school netball team, and managing director of a Young Enterprise group. These experiences have taught me how to take charge and work effectively with others.

I am a hard-working and determined student with a clear set of goals and a strong commitment to achieving them. I am confident and have a strong personality, but I am also humble and aware of how much I have left to learn. My curiosity drives me to seek out new ideas and perspectives, and I am always eager to broaden my understanding of the world around me. I believe that I have the necessary qualities and drive to succeed as an undergraduate in the field of politics.

As a young person, I was deeply affected by the events of 9/11 and the London bombings, which I watched unfold on television. These events sparked my curiosity about the world and drove me to learn more about different political viewpoints. I wanted to understand why certain events happened and how they were shaped by different perspectives.

Through my A-level study of history, I have seen how minor political changes make huge impacts on the world. The story of political evolution over the past 200 years fascinates me, as it explains how and why we ended up where we are today. I have come to understand the deep-rooted connection between politics and everyday life. This is particularly evident in countries which have gained independence from Britain, as governments attempt to find their feet. The histories of relatively new nations such as Zimbabwe and Pakistan are important to look back on, to help us understand how and why they operate as they do today. In the UK, I find the story of devolution in Wales an interesting one, especially as so much of the population remains ambivalent about it.

I have always had a passion for language and have studied Welsh, French, and English at the AS level. In English, I analysed the speeches of politicians such as Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher and considered why they were effective. While studying French, we compared the political systems of France and the UK. However, the political system that interests me the most is that of the USA. The system of checks and balances is a unique and interesting model, and the role of the American president as “Leader of the Free World” is constantly evolving and impacting global society. I also find the British political system to be very intriguing and hope to gain a thorough understanding of its complexity.

I have held several leadership positions at my school, including being a form representative and perfect, and serving as a Student Ambassador. These roles have required me to communicate with my peers and present their requests to staff, which has taught me the importance of sometimes making sacrifices to achieve a goal. I have also participated in the Young Interviewer competition and represented my school at a national debating tournament at Durham University. This experience introduced me to the world of political debate and required me to work in an effective team under time pressure. This year, I made it to the national final of the Welsh Schools’ Debating Championship. Through debate, I have learned to consider different viewpoints on various political, social, and moral issues and to present my arguments. These skills have also been helpful in my written work.

I have been actively involved in politics, including participating in the local election campaign for a Conservative candidate and being a member of the Young Conservatives. I also attended a rally with David Cameron in Bristol, which gave me an understanding of the important role played by grassroots politics and the work that goes into campaigning. I am deeply interested in current affairs, both in the UK and internationally, and am particularly interested in the current coalition government and its successes and challenges. I read the Guardian and have read several political memoirs, with a particular interest in the accounts of Tony Blair and Alastair Campbell, whose experiences have had a significant impact on my understanding of politics.

I hope to fully engage with the various political societies and activities offered at the university and deepen my understanding of global politics through my studies. After completing my degree, I hope to be involved in politics in some capacity, whether through a government career or potentially as a parliamentarian.

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• Personal Statements
• Politics Personal Statement

Politics Personal Statement Example

Sample statement.

Politics and its influence on world events is all too clear from following news and current affairs on TV, websites and newspapers. Even as a small child I was avidly interested in news, preferring adult news programmes such as Newsnight. The complexity of relationships between groups of people is fascinating and the way in which national governments devise and implement laws and regulations and how governments respond to international events never fails to intrigue me.

My interest in current affairs has been deepened by studying political events in history, both at GCSE and A level. I have combined history with Politics and Economics at A level and applying for a university place to study politics and economics at undergraduate level is an obvious next step for me. I look forward to being involved in debates and in learning more about the international response to the terrorist threat. The need to balance the needs of economics, cultural beliefs and international relationships is something that I would be keen to explore further.

Discussing political ideas with others who have deeper knowledge of particular events or ideologies has strengthened my knowledge and my motivation to study politics at a higher level. For the last two years I have been a member of a political debating club, which is allied to my local university and this has brought me into contact with students, postgrads and researchers and tutors. At first I listened intently and followed the debates but as my confidence has grown and as I have read more widely I now participate more, having been a speaker at two debates in the last year.

Last summer I obtained a placement to shadow some of the campaign managers for a councillor in a local election. I experienced at first hand the background work involved, from designing and printing fliers to canvassing door-to-door and attending councillor surgeries. A major feature of this was researching an application by a large company to build a wind farm development in the area. This brought into focus the need to balance the good of the community and the country as a whole (greener power generation) and the objections of the local people who were living within sight of the massive wind turbines.

My interested in economics has also developed through my part-time job as a sales assistant in a local clothes store chain. The full impact of the current recession was really brought home to me by talking to the manager of the store. Although we seemed very busy, a Saturday is much different to a quiet weekday and I saw the efforts made by the staff to promote and sell their goods to meet monthly sales targets with great difficulty.

Outside work and study, I love to play chess and have reached the finals of several national championships. I also swim regularly and have worked as a lifeguard at a swimming pool during the holidays.

I have chosen your university because it allows me to do a combined honours degree that focuses on politics and economics equally. It has also been important to choose a course that offers a wide range of modules within each subject to enable me to pursue by special interests in the role of terrorism in our modern world and its economic and social impacts. 

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Personal statement

The quality of an applicant's personal statement is very important at LSE. The School does not interview for places so this is an applicant’s only opportunity to demonstrate they are a good fit for the course. Applicants should consult the advice here, as well as advice from UCAS when preparing to complete this section of their application. 

Please note that writing a personal statement following the guidelines below does not guarantee an offer of admission. Personal statements are looked at on a comparative basis and there is a great deal of competition for places at LSE. 

LSE does not accept additional or supplementary personal statements. We can only consider the personal statement submitted via UCAS.

Writing your personal statement

We expect that your submitted Personal Statement is structured and coherent and that you fully utilise the space available on your UCAS application form. We expect that you have checked spelling, punctuation, and grammar and that your Personal Statement flows in a logical order. We expect that your Personal Statement is entirely your own original work. We reserve the right to reject your application where it has been found that a statement has significant similarities to a previous submission or has been created with the use of Artificial Intelligence.

Before you start writing, do your research

Before you start writing your personal statement, you should visit our course guides . These guides give information on the course content of each of our undergraduate programmes. 

When assessing your personal statement our Admissions Selectors will look at how well your academic interests align with the LSE course. So, for example, the Anthropology Admissions Selector is likely to prefer a statement which focuses mainly on social anthropology - which is taught at LSE - over one which suggests the applicant is very interested in biological anthropology, or a combined degree with archaeology, as these courses are not offered at the School. 

Similarly, a personal statement which shows an interest mostly in modern international history (the focus of LSE’s International History course) is likely to be more competitive than one which shows a significant interest in ancient history, as LSE does not offer any ancient history units.   

If you are applying for a range of slightly different courses, we recommend that you focus your personal statement on the areas of overlap between them, so that your statement appeals to all of your UCAS choices. It is important to note that LSE does not accept replacement or supplementary personal statements. 

What to include in your personal statement

Your personal statement should discuss for the most part your academic interest in the subject you wish to study. One way to think about the personal statement is to reflect on what we expect from LSE undergraduates: we ask them to learn about topics relevant to their course, through reading or other experiences, and then discuss the ideas they have encountered in academic essays. This is the skill we look for in the personal statement and we recommend at least 80% of your statement should be dedicated to this type of academic discussion. 

How you show your wider engagement with your subject is entirely up to you. Our Selectors look for students who can best reflect on the experiences and academic ideas they have encountered through the opportunities available to them, not those who have had the best opportunities. If you are not sure where to start, you could try listening to podcasts of LSE public events or look in the prospectus for examples of suggested reading. Remember we are interested not just in a list of what you have read/encountered, but evidence you have reflected on the academic ideas. 

To help you begin, there are several questions you could think about:

• Why have you chosen the course? What attracted you to the subject? Which aspects of the subject have interested you sufficiently to want to study it at degree level? Is there a specific area of the subject you wish to focus on? What are the big issues in the subject, and what do you find most interesting about them? What are your thoughts on these topics?
• Have you developed your subject interest outside of your school studies? For example, have you undertaken any additional reading to broaden your knowledge of the subject? Have you attended lectures or explored online material relating to the subject? What did you find interesting in your reading/in the lectures you attended and what are your thoughts on the topics covered?
• Have you gained any skills from your other school subjects that complement your application to study your chosen subject? Have you had the opportunity to undertake work experience relevant to your application? If you did, how did this experience give you a wider understanding of the topics you will study at university?
• Have you attended any schemes or activities at LSE or other universities, such as Summer Schools, Saturday Schools, LSE Choice, etc? What you have learned from these? Have they furthered your knowledge of or interest in your chosen subject?

If you are applying for deferred entry, as well as thinking about the questions listed above, you may also wish to indicate (briefly) why you are taking a gap year and what you plan to do during the year. 

If you are applying as a post-qualified student (ie, you have already received your final results), you may wish to mention briefly what you have been doing since your exams. 

Please note : You are not expected to simply answer all of the questions above; these questions are merely intended to give you some guidance as to what to think about when writing your statement. 

Extra-curricular activities

At LSE you are admitted to study a particular degree course so the majority of your personal statement − at least 80% − should focus on your academic interest in that subject. Many students like to include some details of their extra-curricular activities such as involvement in sports, the arts, volunteering or student government. As our Selectors are most interested in your academic interests, we recommend that no more than 20% of your statement is spent discussing extra-curricular activities. 

Applying to combined degree programmes

LSE offers a number of combined degree programmes. If you are applying to one of these programmes, you are advised to give equal weighting to each subject in your statement. For instance, if you are applying to our Politics and Economics degree, you must show evidence of interest in both subjects; a statement weighted towards only one aspect of the degree will be significantly less competitive.

Example of a poor personal statement

"I have always dreamed of coming to LSE since I was young. It has been a dream of mine to study at this institution, which is well renowned for its social science courses.  

I am currently studying History, English and Business and Management at Higher level and Italian, Maths and Chemistry at Standard level in the International Baccalaureate, and feel that these subjects are providing me with a solid background for university study.  

I want to study History because I want to be a world class Historian, and feel that this degree will help me. I am especially interested in Ancient History, particularly the history concerning the Roman Empire. I am fascinated by the way in which the empire was run, and the events that led to its downfall.  

"I was the captain of the school football team, and this has taught me the importance of working together as a team, and allowed me to prioritise my time between my studies and football practice. I feel that this has provided me with the experience to successfully balance my academic and social life, and I plan to continue this balance whilst at university.  

It is my dream to become an alumnus of the School, and I am sure that as I am the top student of my class, you will offer me a place."  

This brief example of a personal statement is poor. The applicant has mentioned an interest in history but they have not discussed this in depth or shown any evidence of wider engagement with the subject. Where the applicant does talk about history, the discussion is superficial and focussed on ancient history, which LSE does not offer as part of our history course. 

The applicant has specifically mentioned LSE, which is likely to be unattractive to their other choices, and has wasted space listing their International Baccalaureate subjects, which would be shown in the qualifications section. The applicant has described how a history degree will help them get the job they later want, rather than what they are looking forward to studying during the degree. 

The applicant has reflected on the transferable skills they have developed leading the football team. This is good, but it would be nice to see the same level of reflection applied to academic topics - this student has spent more time talking about football than about history. 

UCAS reference Your teacher's reference: what we're looking for

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Politics personal statement example (4) (Masters)

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Changes in the world make it an exciting time to study global affairs, and the London School of Economics offers an unparalleled opportunity to examine shifting social and economic arrangements across the world. The discipline of international relations provides a profound outlook on how we attempt to understand the social world. As a student of international relations, I have benefited from the study of the political forces shaping contemporary times from a global perspective.

Additionally, as a political science student, I have studied the general security concerns of the nation-state and how the domestic context of each state relates to its international relations. This has supplied me with the tools needed to evaluate the workings of world politics and how it shapes foreign policy. Possessing such critical thinking skills is highly valuable, affording a flexible method for perceiving the changing global environment and the challenges it presents to governments, businesses, and communities.

Pursuing a master’s degree is an endeavour I am undertaking to enhance my analytical skills and expand my knowledge in the field of international affairs. Through undergraduate courses and research, I have developed an interest in studying contemporary global conflicts. In particular, their formation from a historical perspective and the conditions which perpetuate them and prevent peaceful resolution. For example, the political obstacles preventing nations from engaging in constructive efforts to address climate change.

What prevents the creation of an effective transnational regulatory framework? Solving this topical issue is necessary for defining and promoting a practical strategy for mitigating global climate change. Based on the growing interdependence between states, the traditionally competitive foreign policy strategies which characterize state relations may be overcome to achieve shared goals. It is essential, therefore, to understand the conditions required to facilitate cooperative action on the part of nations.

The LSE’s specialized approach to focusing on the international system independently of domestic politics is one reason I would be well suited for this program. By comparing the domestic and international levels of policy-making, it is possible to view the differences between them. For instance, long-term policy objectives regarding ecological sustainability are generally treated as an unimportant issue in domestic politics.

However, the problem of climate change is a priority in many international forums such as the United Nations Environment Programme and the European Climate Change Programme. The research done by LSE’s Department of International Relations is designed to consider the unique dynamics of domestic and international actors and institutions.

Thinking theoretically about international politics allows for the identification of factors which drive conflicts in contemporary times. Through my undergraduate research projects, I have studied trends which are shaping social and economic structures globally. Considering the most pressing concerns in the world right now, I asked the following question. How are the greatest threats to the long-term stability of the current world order being managed and adapted to? This inquiry led me to research how governments are acting to meet the challenges of the future.

The European Union is an ideal subject to study, as it represents an innovative attempt by governments to meet changing global conditions. Specifically, I researched the policy-direction of the EU regarding its position on the international climate change agenda. I identified the EU as a focal point in my research, as it evidenced one potential direction governments may take to formulate action plans in their efforts to mitigate and adapt to catastrophic climate change. Investigating a broad issue, such as power politics , through the study of a narrower policy-area, such as the international climate change regime, is something I hope to do through graduate level research.

Academic works which initiated my interest in studying climate change included Anthony Giddens’s book ‘ The Politics of Climate Change .’ Specifically, his sociological perspective on the development of climate change as the result of choices made by nations revealed a new avenue of discourse over climate policy that I had not previously considered. By looking at the role of society and culture in shaping the domestic sphere in which policy is debated, I came to appreciate the role international organizations play in bringing the issue of global climate change to citizens.

By looking at how the international, national and local levels interact around an issue is essential for identifying the factors which prevent a comprehensive approach to tackling climate change.

At the LSE, I hope to develop my research interests while benefiting from the insights of other disciplines. The diversity of research specialties in the Department of International Relations makes it clear that LSE is the best university for me to continue my post-graduate studies.

Combining insights from other fields is something I have benefited from immensely. As a global security risk analyst for a multinational software company, I learned about the ways data technologies are being used to inform business strategies. Using metrics to show trends makes it possible to identify changes in the world and to see them as part of a larger pattern. Learning about how various actors operating in a global environment use technology to think strategically in an increasingly complicated environment has been valuable training for my future academic research and career.

The LSE stands out as a truly international institution. The intellectual diversity of faculty within the international affairs department makes it an ideal place for me to study the evolving world. Also, the overall prestige of the university gives it ties to the nonacademic world, drawing policy-makers and activists from around the world to share their insights with the student body. Engaging with the outside world during my studies is something that I aspire to do. By doing so, I hope my academics and research will prepare me to form new and innovative ideas on current policy-debates and overall, help me to better understand and respond to the dynamic global environment.

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Politics and Economics Personal Statement Examples

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Ever pondered how political decision-making intertwines with economic theory? Interested in exploring the economic dimensions of public policy and the political aspects of economic decisions?

If so, a degree in Politics and Economics could be your perfect pathway. This interdisciplinary programme provides you with the tools to critically analyse, understand, and influence the political and economic systems that govern our societies.

Politics and economics are two interreled fields of study that examine the way in which governments, societies, and economies interact. The politics and economics course covers a range of topics, from the history of political thought to the principles of macroeconomics. Students will learn about the different political systems, the role of the state in the economy, and the impact of international trade and investment.

This course is designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Students will learn about the different political ideologies, the role of the state in the economy, and the impact of international trade and investment. They will also gain an understanding of the economic theory behind the various economic systems, such as capitalism, socialism, and mixed economies.

The course will also cover the history of economic thought, from the classical economists to the modern day. Students will learn about the different economic models and theories, and how they have been applied to various economic situations.

Overall, Politics and Economics is an interesting and relevant choice for students. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topics and theories related to politics and economics, and gives students the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of politics and economics on their lives.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

Securing a Politics and Economics degree from a UK university opens a broad range of career paths in various sectors:

1. Policy Analyst: Research, analyse, and provide advice on issues of public policy, within governmental or non-governmental organisations.

2. Political Advisor: Advise politicians on economic issues, using your understanding of political systems and economic theories.

3. Economic Consultant: Provide strategic advice to businesses or government bodies on economic conditions, forecasts and policies.

4. Diplomat: Represent and protect a nation’s interests at home and abroad, leveraging understanding of economic and political dynamics.

5. Researcher: Conduct in-depth studies into political or economic trends for think tanks, universities or government departments.

6. Lobbyist: Advocate for specific issues or policies on behalf of a group, organisation, or industry.

7. Public Relations Officer: Manage the reputation and image of an organisation or individual, often dealing with political and economic issues.

These roles allow you to apply your knowledge of economics and politics in meaningful ways that can shape society and influence policy-making. The world of politics and economics is yours to explore!

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into the Politics and Economics course at a UK university, applicants must have achieved a minimum of a Grade B in A-Level Economics, and a Grade C in A-Level Politics. Additionally, applicants must have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs at Grade C or above, including Maths and English.

This entry criteria is relatively standard for most university courses in the UK, and is slightly more stringent than some other courses. For example, a course in History may only require a Grade C in A-Level History, and a Grade D in any other A-Level subject. Similarly, a course in English Literature may only require a Grade C in A-Level English Literature, and a Grade D in any other A-Level subject.

Overall, the entry criteria for the Politics and Economics course is quite standard, and is slightly more stringent than some other courses.

UK Earnings Potential For Politics and Economics

The average earnings for someone with a degree in Politics and Economics can vary greatly depending on the job role and the sector they are in. Generally speaking, graduates with a degree in Politics and Economics can expect to earn an average of £25,000 to £35,000 per year.

The job market for graduates with a degree in Politics and Economics is growing rapidly. This is due to the increased demand for individuals with knowledge and skills in both areas, as well as the fact that many employers are looking for individuals who can offer a unique combination of both political and economic expertise.

In terms of trends, the job market for graduates with a degree in Politics and Economics is expected to continue to grow. This is due to the increasing demand for individuals with knowledge and skills in both areas, as well as the fact that many employers are looking for individuals who can offer a unique combination of both political and economic expertise. Additionally, the political and economic landscape is constantly changing, which means that the demand for people with knowledge and skills in both areas is likely to remain high.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Politics and Economics are International Relations, Political Science, and Economics.

International Relations is a course that focuses on the study of relationships between countries, including the study of international law, diplomacy, and international organizations. It also looks at the history and development of international relations, as well as the current state of international affairs.

Political Science is a course that focuses on the study of politics, government, and public policy. It looks at the theories and practices of political systems, how governments work, and the role of citizens in the political process.

Economics is a course that focuses on the study of how societies produce, distribute, and consume goods and services. It looks at the theories of supply and demand, economic growth, and the impact of government policies on the economy.

The key differences between these courses are that International Relations focuses on the study of international relations, Political Science focuses on the study of politics and government, and Economics focuses on the study of economics. Each course has its own unique focus and approach to the study of politics and economics.

UK Curriculum

Politics and Economics is a course that covers a wide range of topics and modules. It typically includes an introduction to the study of politics and economics, an exploration of the key concepts and theories in both fields, and an examination of the key issues and debates in contemporary politics and economics.

The course typically covers topics such as the history and development of political and economic systems, the role of the state and markets, the impact of globalization, and the role of public policy in shaping economic and political outcomes. It also covers the role of international organizations, the role of the media and public opinion, and the role of political parties and interest groups.

In addition to lectures and seminars, the course may also include practical work such as field trips, case studies, and simulations. Students may also be asked to complete research projects and write essays on the topics covered in the course. This provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field and to apply the concepts and theories they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the course Politics and Economics include former US President Barack Obama , who earned a degree in International Relations from Columbia University in 1983. Obama has since gone on to become a highly influential leader in the world of politics and economics, having served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017.

During his time in office, Obama implemented a number of economic policies that had a major impact on the US economy, including the Affordable Care Act, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The Obama Foundation also offers a variety of alumni events and networking opportunities for former students of the course Politics and Economics. These include the Obama Foundation Summit, an annual gathering of leaders from around the world, and the Obama Foundation Scholars Program, which provides mentorship and other resources to help students pursue their academic and professional goals.

Additionally, the Obama Foundation hosts a number of alumni events throughout the year, such as the Obama Foundation Summit in Chicago and the Obama Foundation Global Summit in Japan. These events provide alumni with the opportunity to connect with other alumni, network, and learn more about the Obama Foundation’s mission and initiatives.

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• International

Trump defense grills Michael Cohen in hush money trial

By CNN's Kara Scannell, Lauren Del Valle and Jeremy Herb in the courthouse

Cohen says a pardon from Trump was "being dangled"

Michael Cohen said on the stand that he did explore a pardon from Donald Trump with his lawyers, saying "because I wanted this nightmare to end."

He also said a pardon was "being dangled."

"So, when you said you never asked for and would never accept a pardon, that was a lie, wasn’t it?" Blanche asked.

"At the time it was accurate," Cohen said.

Defense challenging Cohen on past statements that he never asked for nor would accept a pardon from Trump

Defense attorney Todd Blanche is challenging Michael Cohen on his past statements that he never asked for nor would ever accept a pardon from President Trump.

Blanche continued to confront Cohen that he testified publicly he would never accept a pardon but then told lawmakers behind closed doors that he directed his lawyers to explore the possibility.

Cohen says his public testimony was referring to the present tense.

Trump watches as his former personal attorney testifies

Former President Donald Trump has been looking in Michael Cohen's direction from time to time while he testifies.

He leaned forward to read the congressional deposition testimony on a screen, when it was pulled up.

Cohen confirms he asked certain people to delete their communications with him periodically

Trump attorney Todd Blanche asked Michael Cohen if he has a habit of asking certain people in his life to delete their communications with him periodically, like former publisher of the National Enquirer David Pecker.

Cohen confirmed when it came to some people that was his practice.

Blanche was getting at Cohen's discussions with his wife about the HELOC (which Cohen used to make the payment to Daniels's attorney) by asking about a March 9, 2018 statement Michael Avenatti put out saying the money had come from Cohen's HELOC.

The prosecution objected to this line of questioning and there was a sidebar.

Blanche asked Cohen if he deleted text messages around that time. "Two days later you deleted all the text messages that you had with your wife on March 11?"

"I’m not, no sir. I’m not aware of that," Cohen said.

Cohen says he never asked Trump for a pardon, but he did talk to his attorney about it

Defense attorney Todd Blanche is moving on to Michael Cohen's statements to Congress in which he said he never asked for, nor would he accept a pardon from Trump.

"That was false, right?" Blanche says. "I never asked for it. I spoke to my attorney about it," Cohen says after seeing it on the screen.

Cohen says he reached out to his attorney to "see whether it was legitimate" but he said a pardon would be a nightmare.

Blanche goes to Cohen's deposition before the House Intelligence Committee in 2019, asking whether his lawyer explored the possibility of a pardon "because you were 100% open to accepting it?" "Yes sir," Cohen says.

Trump's attorneys will ask NY's highest court to weigh in on gag order

From CNN's Nicki Brown and Kara Scannell 

Donald Trump's attorneys have filed court documents indicating they will ask New York's highest court to weigh in on the gag order against him in his hush money trial.

On Tuesday,  a New York appeals court denied  Trump’s latest attempt to end the gag order. The next day, Trump's attorneys submitted court filings indicating they will appeal the denied motion to the state's highest court, the Court of Appeals. Those filings are not available on the docket.

The Court of Appeals does not have to accept the motion. As of Thursday morning, the clerk's office said it had not yet received the motion.

Cohen looks at jury with a smile and shakes his head as attorneys sidebar with Judge Merchan

Michael Cohen looked over at the jury with a small smile and shook his head as attorneys sidebar with Judge Juan Merchan.

The prosecution objected to a question from Trump's attorney Todd Blanche about whether Cohen told his wife about the Home Equity Line of Credit he used to make the payment to Stormy Daniels' attorney.

Cohen's tone perks up as he talks about taxi medallions

Michael Cohen's tone perked up particularly when attorney Todd Blanche asked Cohen about the corporations he had to receive monthly payments for the taxi medallions .

"There were 16 corporations," Cohen said, going on to explain why that's "actually standard in the industry."

Cohen went on to talk about the typical industry practice of holding two or more medallions in an LLC entity.

"Thank you," Blanche said, when he was done.

"You're welcome," Cohen responded, garnering laughs in the overflow room.

"Yes," Cohen says when asked if Trump trial impacts him personally

“Does the outcome of this trial affect you personally?” Trump attorney Todd Blanche asked, echoing a similar line of questioning from his cross-examination on Tuesday.

“Yes," Michael Cohen said.

Cohen's tone is still measured as he answers, but he looks annoyed in court.

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Contentious Exchange at House Oversight Hearing Between MTG, AOC, and Crockett

A n explosive altercation erupted during the House Oversight Committee hearing, with Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene engaging in a heated exchange with Democratic Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Jasmine Crockett. The hearing, focused on a contempt resolution against Attorney General Merrick Garland, veered off course as personal attacks were lobbed between members.

Years of political tension came to a head as Greene insinuated connections between Democrats and the daughter of the judge overseeing ex-President Trump’s hush money case. The situation escalated when Greene made disparaging comments about Crockett’s appearance.

“I’d like to know if any of the Democrats on this committee are employing Judge [Juan] Merchan’s daughter,” queried Greene.

Crockett countered, questioning the relevance to the agenda at hand and calling out Greene’s understanding of the committee’s purpose.

Amidst the resulting uproar, as Greene mocked Crockett’s eyelashes, Democratic ranking member Jamie Raskin and Chairman James Comer sought to restore order. Ocasio-Cortez took offense, demanding Greene’s remarks be removed from the official record.

“How dare you attack the physical appearance of another person!” stated Ocasio-Cortez, to which Greene responded mockingly, denying being condescending.

Both Greene and Ocasio-Cortez traded further insults, culminating in Greene’s refusal to apologize to Crockett despite retracting her earlier comments.

Crockett’s retort to Greene’s provocations threw the meeting into further confusion, with Comer and other members looking on bemused or irritated.

Paulina Luna admonished Crockett as she echoed Greene’s earlier sentiments, with Crockett defiantly refusing to be silenced. The exchange highlighted the fractious nature of the session.

Despite the distracting squabble, the committee ultimately voted along partisan lines to recommend the resolution to hold Garland in contempt to the full House for not fully complying with a subpoena related to President Biden’s classified documents case.

FAQ About the House Oversight Hearing Incident

What sparked the confrontation at the House Oversight Committee hearing?

A discussion regarding a contempt resolution against Attorney General Merrick Garland turned personal when Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene mentioned a judge’s daughter and commented on Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s appearance.

Did Greene apologize for her remarks?

While Rep. Greene agreed to retract her statements, she explicitly refused to issue an apology to Rep. Crockett.

What was the outcome of the hearing?

After a heated and disorderly debate, the committee voted to send the resolution recommending contempt of Congress against Attorney General Garland to the full House.

The House Oversight Committee hearing on the matter of Attorney General Merrick Garland swiftly devolved into personal attacks and chaos, reflecting deep divisions within Congress. Despite the tumultuous proceedings, the committee managed to make progress on the legal issue at hand, albeit overshadowed by the bitter confrontations. This incident underscores not only the intense political climate but also the challenging dynamics of congressional relations.

The post Contentious Exchange at House Oversight Hearing Between MTG, AOC, and Crockett appeared first on Kevin Hearld .

Looking back at former Trump fixer on the stand in hush money trial: Who is Michael Cohen?

Michael Cohen , Donald Trump 's former lawyer and fixer, took the witness stand Monday in Trump's criminal hush money trial .

Cohen's testimony could be a central link prosecutors use to show Trump authorized the $130,000 paid to porn star Stormy Daniels in an attempt to stop her story about an alleged affair from becoming public ahead of the 2016 election. Trump has been charged with 34 counts of falsifying business records to allegedly disguise reimbursing Cohen.

But Cohen's journey to the witness stand has been complicated. Once an adamant Trump loyalist, Cohen has repeatedly attacked Trump in recent years. He has also been convicted of several felonies, including lying to Congress:

Here is what to know about Cohen, a key witness in Trump's criminal trial:

Trump trial live updates: Latest updates as Michael Cohen returns as hush money witness

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

How long did Michael Cohen work for Trump?

Cohen was Trump's personal attorney and fixer from 2006 until 2018.

How long was Michael Cohen's prison sentence?

Michael Cohen was sentenced to three years in prison . He started his sentence in May 2019, but was sent home early for house arrest due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Where did Michael Cohen go to law school?

Michael Cohen went to Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan. Politico reported that "Cooley may be, by some measurements, the worst law school in America."

What did Michael Cohen lie about? 

In November 2018, Michael Cohen pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements to Congress. In an effort to protect Trump, had told Congress his boss stopped trying to pursue a real-estate deal in Moscow in January 2016 when they actually continued efforts through June 2016.

That guilty plea came months after Cohen pleaded guilty to tax evasion, making false statements to a bank, and violating campaign finance laws by causing or issuing two hush money payments: $130,000 to Stormy Daniels and $150,00 to Karen McDougal, the latter of which was paid by American Media Inc. Those amounts greatly exceed the personal contribution limits to a political candidate.

Cohen was sentenced to three years in prison, according to a Department of Justice release .

Why did Michael Cohen turn on Trump? 

Cohen's falling out with Trump was partly due to his conviction. In February 2019, he told a congressional committee he made a clean break with Trump.

"I have done bad things, but I am not a bad man. I have fixed things, but I am no longer your fixer, Mr. Trump," Cohen said in a dramatic testimony.

The two have continuously lobbed attacks at one another since then.

Contributing: Aysha Bagchi, Erin Kelly, Josh Meyer

Swati Maliwal assault case: AAP MP records statement before magistrate, Delhi Police could not enter Bibhav's residence

On may 13 morning, swati maliwal went to the civil lines police station and alleged that a member of kejriwal's personal staff "assaulted" her at the chief minister's official residence..

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The NFL responds after a player urges female college graduates to become homemakers

Rachel Treisman

Kansas City Chiefs player Harrison Butker, pictured at a press conference in February, is in hot water for his recent commencement speech at Benedictine College in Kansas. Chris Unger/Getty Images hide caption

Kansas City Chiefs player Harrison Butker, pictured at a press conference in February, is in hot water for his recent commencement speech at Benedictine College in Kansas.

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker stirred controversy off the field this weekend when he told a college graduating class that one of the "most important titles" a woman can hold is "homemaker."

Butker denounced abortion rights, Pride Month, COVID-19 lockdowns and "the tyranny of diversity, equity and inclusion" in his commencement address at Benedictine College, a Catholic liberal arts school in Atchison, Kan.

The 28-year-old, a devout Catholic and father of two, also railed against "dangerous gender ideologies" and urged men to "fight against the cultural emasculation of men." At one point, he addressed women specifically.

Black Stories. Black Truths.

Why the nfl (still) has a diversity problem.

"I want to speak directly to you briefly because I think it is you, the women, who have had the most diabolical lies told to you, how many of you are sitting here now about to cross the stage, and are thinking about all the promotions and titles you're going to get in your career," he said. "Some of you may go on to lead successful careers in the world. But I would venture to guess that the majority of you are most excited about your marriage and the children you will bring into this world."

Harrison Butker chokes up while discussing his wife, encouraging Benedictine College female grads to embrace motherhood. pic.twitter.com/qm73MBl0Hl — The College Fix (@CollegeFix) May 13, 2024

"I can tell you that my beautiful wife Isabelle would be the first to say that her life truly started when she began living her vocation as a wife and as a mother," Butker said.

The 20-minute speech has been viewed more than 455,000 times on YouTube since Saturday and generated considerable backlash — and memes — on social media, especially from people critical of his views on women. Many pointed out that Butker's own mom is a clinical medical physicist.

Butker also drew ire from fans of Taylor Swift, who is dating fellow Chiefs player Travis Kelce, a relationship that has famously helped bring many new female fans to the NFL. Later in the speech, he quoted Swift — though not by name — while talking about what he sees as the problem of priests becoming "overly familiar" with their parishioners.

Super Bowl 2024

The swift-kelce romance sounds like a movie. but the nfl swears it wasn't scripted.

"This undue familiarity will prove to be problematic every time, because as my teammate's girlfriend says, 'Familiarity breeds contempt,' " he said, quoting a lyric from her song Bejeweled.

One Swift fan account joked about petitioning for the pop star to replace Butker as the Chiefs' kicker. A real online petition , calling for the Chiefs to dismiss Butker for his "sexist, homophobic, anti-trans, anti-abortion and racist remarks," has gained 95,000 signatures and counting since Monday.

Butker and the team have not commented publicly on his speech and the backlash to it, though late Wednesday the NFL issued a statement distancing itself from it.

"Harrison Butker gave a speech in his personal capacity," Jonathan Beane, the NFL's senior VP and chief diversity and inclusion officer told NPR on Thursday. "His views are not those of the NFL as an organization."

What else did Butker say?

Butker has been vocal about his faith, telling the Eternal Word Television Network in 2019 that he grew up Catholic but practiced less in high school and college before rediscovering his belief later in life.

Last year, Butker appeared in an ad for the nonprofit Catholic Vote urging Kansans to support a referendum that would limit abortion rights in the state (it was ultimately unsuccessful ). He's also one of several athletes who has partnered with a Catholic prayer app . And days after the Chiefs won this year's Super Bowl, Butker spent a week "in reflection" at a monastery in California.

He also gave the commencement address at his alma mater Georgia Tech last year, in which he urged students to "get married and start a family."

Women are earning more money. But they're still picking up a heavier load at home

This time around, Butker started his speech by suggesting he had been reluctant to give it: He said he originally turned down the president's invitation because he felt that one commencement speech was enough, "especially for someone who isn't a professional speaker."

He was persuaded, he said, in part by leadership's argument about how many milestones graduating seniors had missed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"As a group, you witnessed firsthand how bad leaders who don't stay in their lane can have a negative impact on society," he said in his opening remarks. "It is through this lens that I want to take stock of how we got to where we are and where we want to go as citizens, and yes, as Catholics."

He criticized President Biden for his handling of the pandemic and his stance on abortion, which he said falsely suggests people can simultaneously be "both Catholic and pro-choice."

Butker blamed "the pervasiveness of disorder" for the availability of procedures like abortion, IVF, surrogacy and euthanasia, as well as "a growing support for degenerate cultural values and media."

6 in 10 U.S. Catholics are in favor of abortion rights, Pew Research report finds

At one point, he referenced an Associated Press article from earlier this month about the revival of conservative Catholicism that prominently featured Benedictine College as an example.

The school of roughly 2,000 gets top ratings from the Cardinal Newman Society , a nonprofit that promotes Catholic education in the U.S., for policies including offering daily mass and prohibiting campus speakers who "publicly oppose Catholic moral teaching."

"I am certain the reporters at the AP could not have imagined that their attempt to rebuke and embarrass places and people like those here at Benedictine wouldn't be met with anger, but instead with excitement and pride," Butker said, before making an apparent reference to LGBTQ Pride Month in June.

"Not the deadly sin sort of pride that has an entire month dedicated to it," he said, as laughter could be heard from the crowd.

How are people responding?

The official YouTube video of Butker's speech shows the crowd standing and applauding at the end, though the AP reports that reactions among graduates were mixed. Several told the outlet they were surprised by his comments about women, priests and LGTBQ people.

Kassidy Neuner told the AP that the speech felt "degrading," suggesting that only women can be homemakers.

"To point this out specifically that that's what we're looking forward to in life seems like our four years of hard work wasn't really important," said Neuner, who is planning on attending law school.

The Vatican says surrogacy and gender theory are 'grave threats' to human dignity

Butker's comments have gotten some support, including on social media from football fan accounts and Christian and conservative media personalities .

"Christian men should be preaching this regularly," tweeted former NFL player T.J. Moe. "Instead, it's so taboo that when someone tells the obvious truth that anyone who holds a biblical worldview believes, it's national news."

Still, other public figures — including musicians Maren Morris and Flava Flav — were quick to disagree.

Even the official Kansas City account weighed in, tweeting on Wednesday that Butker resides not there but in a neighboring suburb, Lee's Summit. The tweet has since been deleted and the account apologized for the tweet .

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas tweeted that he believed Butker holds a "minority viewpoint" in the state but defended his right to express it.

Campus protests over the Gaza war

How student protests are changing college graduations.

"Grown folks have opinions, even if they play sports," he wrote . "I disagree with many, but I recognize our right to different views."

Justice Horn, the former chair of Kansas City's LGBTQ Commission, was more critical, writing on X (formerly Twitter) that "Harrison Butker doesn't represent Kansas City nor has he ever." He called the city one that "welcomes, affirms and embraces our LGBTQ+ community members."

The Los Angeles Chargers also trolled Butker in its Sims-style schedule release video on Wednesday, which ends with a shot of his animated, number 7 jersey-wearing character cooking and arranging flowers in a kitchen.

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Slovakia’s Leader Survives Surgery After Shooting, Deputy Says

Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot five times in what officials said was a politically motivated assassination attempt. The deputy prime minister told the BBC the surgery appeared to have gone well.

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• Mr. Fico is rushed into a vehicle after being shot in Handlova, Slovakia. RTVS via AFP
• The police made an arrest after the shooting. Reuters
• Emergency personnel taking Mr. Fico to a hospital. Jan Kroslák/TASR Slovakia, via Associated Press
• Mr. Fico is transported by helicopter to a hospital in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia. JOJ via Reuters
• The police on the scene after the shooting Radovan Stoklasa/Reuters
• Mr. Fico speaking with a group in Handlova earlier Wednesday. Radovan Stoklasa/TASR Slovakia, via Associated Press

Cassandra Vinograd ,  Andrew Higgins and Richard Pérez-Peña

A suspect is in custody in the Slovakia shooting. Here’s what to know.

Slovakia’s prime minister, Robert Fico, a fixture in the country’s politics and known for defying his fellow leaders in the European Union, underwent hours of emergency surgery on Wednesday after being shot five times and critically wounded in a town in central Slovakia, in what officials said appeared to be a politically motivated assassination attempt.

His deputy, Tomas Taraba, told the BBC that the operation appeared to have gone well. “I guess in the end he will survive,” he said.

The shooting was the most serious attack on a European leader in decades, drawing shock and condemnation from Slovak officials and other European leaders and stoking fears that Europe’s increasingly polarized and venomous political debates had tipped into violence.

The events were captured on videos, which showed Mr. Fico, 59, approaching a small group of people behind a waist-high metal barrier on a public square in the town of Handlova, when a man stepped forward and fired a pistol from just a few feet away. Five bangs could be heard.

With the first bang, Mr. Fico doubled over at the waist and fell backward onto a bench as more reports ring out. Security officers then hustled him into a black Audi several feet away, half-carrying him to the car’s rear door. He was taken to a local hospital and airlifted to another for surgery.

Security officers at the scene of the shooting wrestled a suspect to the ground, and officials said that initial evidence pointed to political motivations. The authorities did not identify the suspect, whom Slovak news outlets described as a 71-year-old poet. The country’s interior minister, Matus Sutaj Estok, said more information would be made public “in the coming days.”

The president of Slovakia, Zuzana Caputova, whose position is largely ceremonial, said in a statement, “The shooting of the prime minister is first and foremost an attack on a human being, but it’s also an attack on democracy.”

The shooting also drew a chorus of condemnation from world leaders, including President Biden, who called it a “horrific act of violence,” and Russia’s leader, Vladimir V. Putin, who lauded Mr. Fico as a “courageous and strong-minded man.”

Mr. Fico began his three-decade political career as a leftist but over the years shifted to the right, as did the party he founded, Smer. He served as prime minister from 2006 to 2010 and from 2012 to 2018, before returning to power in elections last year. After being ousted amid street protests in 2018, he was re-elected on a platform of social conservatism, nationalism and promises of generous welfare programs.

Mr. Fico presented himself as a pugnacious fighter for the common man and an enemy of liberal elites and immigration from outside Europe, and he aligned with Hungary’s prime minister, Viktor Orban, in opposing aid to Ukraine and challenging mainstream opinions within the European Union.

Domestically, his critics accused him of undermining the independence of the news media, opposed his efforts to restrict foreign funding of civic organizations and called him a threat to democracy. They also accused Mr. Fico of seeking to take Slovakia back to the repressive days of the Soviet bloc.

Here is what else to know:

Mr. Fico was in Handlova to hold a governmental meeting, which he followed with a nearly hourlong news conference . He had just emerged from those events when he was attacked.

The Parliament of Slovakia suspended its meetings and said it was “significantly” bolstering its security measures. Some of Mr. Fico’s parliamentary allies suggested that his liberal opponents had created the atmosphere for the shooting.

Michal Simecka, the chair of the opposition party Progressive Slovakia, said he shared in the “horror” of the attack and stressed that the attacker was not a member of his movement or connected to his party in any way.

Pavol Strba and Gaya Gupta contributed reporting.

The New York Times

Slovakia has largely charted its own course since the fall of the Soviet Union.

Slovakia, which was left reeling on Wednesday after an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Robert Fico, is a relatively young country whose history is closely intertwined with that of its central European neighbors.

Slovakia is one of two nations born out of the former Czechoslovakia amid the dissolution of the Soviet Union in the waning years of the 20th century.

Czechoslovakia was a multiethnic nation established at the end of World War I that endured dismemberment by the Nazis and more than four decades of Communist rule. But during the fall of Communism in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when independence movements gained strength throughout the Soviet Union, a series of largely peaceful protests called the Velvet Revolution led Czechoslovakia first to independence and then to a split, often referred to as the Velvet Divorce , that left two nations: the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

After several years of economic and political upheaval following its independence, Slovakia joined the European Union and NATO in 2004, and adopted the euro in 2009. As the country navigated the establishment of its national identity , some tensions remained with the Czech Republic, its richer and larger neighbor , which has roughly twice Slovakia’s population of five million.

Like much of Europe, Slovakia has been deeply polarized over the past decade. Mr. Fico, who has been a leading politician in the country since its independence, was forced to resign from office in 2018 amid sweeping protests over the murder of a journalist who was investigating government corruption.

He was re-elected last fall, after taking a pro-Russian campaign stance that capitalized on Slovakia’s historical Russian sympathies.

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James C. McKinley Jr.

Slovakia’s deputy prime minister, Tomas Taraba, told the BBC late on Wednesday that Fico’s emergency surgery appeared to have gone well.

“He’s not in a life-threatening situation at this moment,” Taraba said.

When asked about the identity of the attacker, the interior minister, Matus Sutaj Estok, declined to provide further detail. “Not today,” he said, adding that officials would provide more information in the “coming days.”

The interior minister also told reporters that Fico was still in surgery and remains in critical condition.

The prime minister was shot five times, he said.

Slovakia’s interior minister, Matus Sutaj Estok, said in a news conference that an investigation into the attack against Mr. Fico is ongoing, and initial evidence “clearly points to a political motivation.”

Cassandra Vinograd

Hours after the attack, the police in Slovakia have not offered any details or issued a statement on the assassination attempt. They asked the media and the public to disable comments on social media posts and articles about the attack.

Daniel Victor

Fico campaigned on ending support for Ukraine, alarming many in the West.

Robert Fico, the Slovakian prime minister whose life was in danger after being shot on Wednesday, was elected in 2023, completing an unlikely political comeback after resigning from the position in 2018 after major street protests over the killing of an investigative journalist.

Mr. Fico won in part on a message of social conservatism, nationalism, anti-L.G.B.T.Q. rhetoric and promises of generous welfare programs. But it was another key plank of his campaign that alarmed many countries in the West: His unsparing support for Russia in its war against Ukraine.

A public opinion poll in March 2023 found that 51 percent of Slovaks believed that either the West or Ukraine were “primarily responsible” for the war. Mr. Fico capitalized on the sentiment, campaigning on stopping all arms shipments to Ukraine while blaming Russia and Ukraine equally for the war.

In October, Mr. Fico said he was halting all military aid to Ukraine, though he said nonmilitary aid would continue. The decision was met with outrage among other E.U. members and supporters of Ukraine.

Mr. Fico, who was prime minister for a decade before resigning in 2018, has aligned himself rhetorically with Viktor Orban, the pro-Russian leader of neighboring Hungary.

“Fico was inspired by Orban, but does not have the same deep ideological roots, and is more of a pragmatist,” Ludek Sekyra, a Czech businessman who chairs the Sekyra Foundation, a supporter of liberal causes, said in October . “He has been adept in exploiting unease over the vast influx of Ukrainian refugees, small-country resentment of the European Union and Russian sympathies that do not exist in the Czech Republic.”

Though he won the election, he remains reviled by many voters outside his party’s loyal base. His party, Smer, is nominally leftist but has moved to the right on immigration and cultural issues.

President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia called Mr. Fico a “courageous and strong-minded man,” adding that this “monstrous crime cannot have any justification.”

Lauren Leatherby

Videos from the scene indicate that the attacker shot the prime minister, Robert Fico, in Banikov Square, in the center of the town of Handlova. The attacker is seen standing with other people behind a barrier before shooting Mr. Fico when he came to greet them. Mr. Fico had been at an event in Handlova’s House of Culture, according to Slovakian media.

Location of

train station

The parliament of Slovakia has suspended its meetings and said it was “significantly” bolstering its security measures in response to the attack on Fico.

President Biden said he was “alarmed to hear” about the attack on Fico and condemned the “horrific act of violence.”

“Jill and I are praying for a swift recovery, and our thoughts are with his family and the people of Slovakia,” he said in a statement, adding that the U.S. Embassy was in “close touch” with Slovakia’s government and stood ready to assist.

Matthew Mpoke Bigg

Who is Robert Fico?

Robert Fico, 59, has played a pivotal role in Slovakian politics in the years since it gained independence in 1993 and has served as prime minister longer than any other leader.

Slovakia — a landlocked country of around 5 million people — gained independence after the so-called Velvet Revolution, a series of popular and nonviolent protests in 1989 against the Communist Party in what was at that time still Czechoslovakia. That year, the Berlin Wall fell, Communist power in much of Eastern Europe collapsed and the Cold War in effect ended.

Mr. Fico, who had been a Communist Party member while it was in power, founded the Smer party in the late 1990s. He began the first of his three terms as prime minister in 2006, serving for four years before going into opposition after his coalition lost an election. Mr. Fico returned to power in 2012 but resigned as prime minister in July 2018 following mass demonstrations over the murder of a journalist, Jan Kuciak, and his fiancée, Martina Kusnirova, who had been uncovering government corruption. The protests, which rocked the country, were the largest seen since the Velvet Revolution; demonstrators demanded the resignation of the government and new elections.

Slovakia ranks high in independent assessments of press freedom, but the protesters had also sought deeper changes in the country Mr. Fico had overseen.

The Smer party started out on the political left but has increasingly embraced right-wing views on immigration and cultural issues. Much of the international discussion of Mr. Fico’s leadership in recent years has focused on his ties to President Vladimir Putin of Russia and to Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary, Slovakia’s southern neighbor. Like Mr. Orban, Mr. Fico has been a staunch critic of the European Union.

After a parliamentary election last fall, Mr. Fico began his third term as prime minister, then had heart surgery the next month. He emerged to form a coalition government after securing around 23 percent of the vote, having campaigned against sanctions that were imposed on Russia after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. Not one round of the country’s ammunition should be sent to Ukraine, he had told voters.

That stance, in a country where pro-Russian sentiment had historically been significant, worried E.U. leaders in Brussels, who said they feared that Slovakia could form a pro-Russian alliance with Mr. Orban and, potentially, Italy’s leader, Giorgia Meloni, that would impede support for Ukraine in the European Union. At the time, it was also seen as a sign of the apparent erosion of the pro-Ukrainian bloc that Europe had formed after the invasion.

Slovakia’s military contributions to Ukraine were negligible compared with countries such as the United States and Britain. But last year it became one of several European Union countries on Ukraine’s borders to block imports of its grain, fearing that it could undermine Slovakia’s farmers.

In April, an ally of Mr. Fico, Peter Pellegrini, won a vote to become Slovakia’s president. The position is largely ceremonial, but analysts said the victory strengthened the grip of political forces friendly to Russia in Central Europe, given that Mr. Pellegrini opposed providing military and financial aid to Ukraine.

Mr. Fico was born on Sept. 15, 1964, into a working-class family in the city of Topolcany in the Nitra Region of what is now Slovakia. He graduated in 1986 from Comenius University Bratislava, where he received a law degree, according to the Slovak government’s website . He earned a doctorate at the Institute of State and Law at the Slovak Academy of Sciences, and served in the military from 1986 to 1987.

Mr. Fico studied in the United States, Britain, Finland, Belgium and France, specializing in human rights and criminal law, according to the government website. He married Svetlana Ficova, a lawyer and professor, and they have a son. News reports in Slovakia say the couple is separated.

An earlier version of this article misspelled the given name of Italy’s leader. She is Giorgia Meloni, not Georgia.

How we handle corrections

Slovakia’s president, Zuzana Caputova, said at a news conference in Bratislava that the police had arrested the suspected perpetrator at the scene. She again expressed her shock over the attack, calling it an “attack on democracy.”

Peter Pellegrini, who will soon assume the Slovak presidency, echoed that sentiment. “An assassination attempt on one of the highest constitutional officials is an unprecedented threat to Slovak democracy,” he wrote on social media. “If we express different political opinions with guns in the squares, and not in polling stations, we endanger everything we have built together in 31 years of Slovak sovereignty.”

Slovakia’s interior minister, Matus Sutaj Estok, said that the assassination attempt would be investigated “as quickly as possible.” “Slovakia is experiencing the worst day of its democracy,” he wrote on Facebook . “For the first time in the 31 years of our democratic sovereign republic, it happened that someone decided to express a political opinion not in an election, but with a gun on the street.”

Richard Pérez-Peña

Fico was airlifted to the F.D. Roosevelt Hospital in Banska Bystrica, a city near Handlova, according to Slovak officials.

He was taken there because it would have taken too long to get to the capital, Bratislava, according to his official Facebook pag e.

Matina Stevis-Gridneff

World leaders express shock at an assassination attempt against Robert Fico, Slovakia’s prime minister.

Leaders from the European Union and beyond expressed shock at the assassination attempt against Slovakia’s prime minister, Robert Fico, on Wednesday, even as the details of the shooting incident outside Bratislava, the capital, remained unclear.

Mr. Fico remains in the hospital in “life-threatening condition,” according to his staff.

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, called the attack “vile” on social media . “Such acts of violence have no place in our society and undermine democracy, our most precious common good,” she added.

Charles Michel of the European Council, the other major European Union institution, expressed shock on social media and wrote, “Nothing can ever justify violence or such attacks.”

Mr. Fico has had a testy relationship with European Union partners, expressing pro-Russian views and at times siding with Hungary, the bloc’s closest Russian ally. Viktor Orban, the prime minister of Hungary and Mr. Fico’s personal ally, said he was “deeply shocked by the heinous attack against my friend, Prime Minister Robert Fico.”

But such conflicts were put firmly aside as European leaders grappled with the attack against Mr. Fico, which has come just weeks before a major European Union-wide election is to be held between June 6 and 9.

President Emmanuel Macron of France said that he was “shocked” by the shooting. “I strongly condemn this attack,” he wrote on X . “My thoughts and solidarity are with him, his family and the Slovak people.”

António Guterres, the U. N. secretary general, strongly condemned the “shocking attack” against Mr. Fico, according to a statement from his spokesperson’s office, adding that his thoughts were with the prime minister and his loved ones.

Violent attacks, especially shootings, against elected officials have been extremely rare in recent European history.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine also took to social media to voice shock at the assassination attempt against Mr. Fico. While Slovakia’s support for Ukraine has waned recently, it was the first country to deliver fighter jets there when its war began.

“We strongly condemn this act of violence against our neighboring partner state’s head of government,” wrote Mr. Zelensky. “Every effort should be made to ensure that violence does not become the norm in any country, form, or sphere,” he said.

Images from the scene published by the Reuters news agency showed what appeared to be members of Fico’s security detail running around a black sedan. Other photographs and video showed a person handcuffed on the ground at the scene.

Attacks against elected officials are virtually unheard of in recent European Union history, contributing to the deep shock over the attempt on Robert Fico’s life.

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Government and Politics Personal Statement

Submitted by Aqil

Are you always watching international Politics?

Learn more about the political theories and international relations behind it all by studying Politics at SOAS.

Change the world around you with a Politics degree.

Choose Surrey for your Politics degree where you can take advantage of a year long award-winning Professional Training placement scheme.

Government and Politics Personal Statement

Watching 9/11 and the aftermath of the London bombings unfold live on television is what initially stimulated my desire to know more about the world around me. As I grew up I wanted to know about different political viewpoints, so that I could understand how and why events in the news played out the way that they did.

Through my A level study of history, I have seen how minor political changes make huge impacts on the world. The story of political evolution over the past 200 years fascinates me, as it explains how and why we ended up where we are today. I have come to understand the deep rooted connection between politics and everyday life. This is particularly evident in countries which have gained independence from Britain, as governments attempt to find their feet. The histories of relatively new nations such as Zimbabwe and Pakistan are important to look back on, in order to help us understand how and why they operate as they do today. In the UK, I find the story of devolution in Wales an interesting one, especially as so much of the population remains ambivalent about it.

Having been a keen linguist from a young age, I studied Welsh, French and English to AS level. In English, I have examined speeches by leading politicians such as Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher and discussed why they are effective. In French we looked at the political system of France when compared to the UK, however I have found that the political system which interests me the most is perhaps that of the USA. The system of checks and balances is an interesting model, and the role of the American president as "Leader of the Free World' is one which continues to develop and affect the fabric of global society. I also find the British system very interesting, and hope to fully understand all its complexity and intricacies.

I have been an elected form representative for the past 6 years and a sixth form prefect, and have also taken the role of Student Ambassador. Through these positions I have learned how to deal with requests from my peers and present them to staff. This in turn has taught me that there cannot always be a compromise, and sometimes sacrifices must be made. I took part in the Young Interviewer competition and represented the school at a national debating tournament at Durham University . This introduced me to the world of political debate, and we made great progress over the course of the weekend. It was a challenge to work as an effective team in such a strict time limit, and it involved a lot of quick thinking, but I coped well under the pressure. This year I have reached the national final of the Welsh Schools' Debating Championship. Debating has helped me understand different points of view on a variety of challenging political, social and moral issues and has taught me how to present my views and arguments clearly, a skill which I have transferred to my written work.

I participated in the election campaign of my local Conservative candidate. I was involved with the Young Conservatives and I attended David Cameron's final rally in Bristol. Canvassing and leafleting as a team gave me an insight into the vital work that is done in the grassroots of politics. I follow British and international current affairs avidly. I am interested in the present dynamic of the coalition government, its issues and compromises, and ultimately its success or failure. I read the Guardian and have read several political memoirs. Those of Tony Blair and Alastair Campbell interest me most, as they tell the story of the politics which has been most dominant in my life so far.

I hope to fully immerse myself in the various political activities and societies which form such a large part of university life. Through my studies at university I look forward to further understanding how politics works around the world. After completing my degree, I look forward to being active in politics, either through a governmental career or potentially as a parliamentarian.

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Politics personal statement example 1.

Politics has always been a passion of mine since I was introduced to the course at AS Level and I have joined the Conservative party to help me understand their dramatic fall from grace in the last decade.

I am also interested in what they are trying to do to get back to the top of the tree of British politics. Although I have no political ideology as such, many single-issue lobby groups have interested me as I feel this is the way forward as opposed to conventional party politics. I now take a keen interest in public affairs.

English is also a big part of my life in and I love reading and writing. Last year I entered a competition to write a film script for a TV channel and I was greatly encouraged by their response. I write in my diary daily and also occasionally pen my thoughts in the form of poetry.

Ted Robbins’ work is of great interest to me as he is not only local, but also a man of many talents. As a proud Welshman, my commitment to language stretches to learning Welsh in my spare time. I am also competent in both French and Italian picked up from school and foreign excursions.

Although both English and ICT involve coursework, I enjoy the fact that I have motivation to work towards university throughout the year instead of it all hinging on exams.

I have won many awards for football, cricket and athletics, including “Players’ Player of the Year” at my local club and a trophy for “Outstanding Effort”.

I enjoy a challenge and am constantly trying new and interesting things. I am competent on four musical instruments – Cornet, saxophone, piano and guitar. Music is a big part of my life and I am stirred by many pieces. I often listen to music when working or just too generally relax me. I feel it heals the soul and again, is inspiration to write.

In between my studies I enjoy socialising with my friends. This can be in many forms including games of tennis, football and snooker, going out to town or just one of my friend’s houses. I have a few groups of friends and I make new ones easily. This is good preparation for university.

I have been weaned on books from a young age, and a lot of my time is spent immersed in a good book. I particularly enjoy books on sport and computing, although it was Sue Townsend who first inspired me to write with her Adrian Mole series, a witty and gloriously humorous sequence of books I took to immediately.

The whole concept of computers fascinates me and in my spare time I’m learning web design. I have managed two popular websites, one of which was paid employment for a company called Rivals.

For my work experience I went to the local paper, which gave me a good idea of what journalism entails and encouraged my interest in the field. I wrote many stories that were published and I learned important skills such as working as part of a team and meeting deadlines. I have honed these skills in part-time jobs since.

My motivation is my lifelong desire to go to university and to better myself as a person. I have a thirst to learn and I am suited to the university lifestyle. I have always wanted to be a journalist and a degree in Politics or English can give me the scope to go on and be successful in life. I am more than mature enough to handle myself on my own in unfamiliar surroundings.

Profile info

This personal statement was written by MatthewWxm.

MatthewWxm's university choices Cardiff University University of East Anglia The University of Sheffield University of Newcastle Upon Tyne Northumbria University

Green : offer made Red : no offer made

Related Personal Statements

Needs to be more focussed..

Wed, 25/07/2007 - 09:06

Well this PS lacks focus. If the person is applying for a politics degree the main focus should be politics. In other words at least 50% should be related to politics. I think this person lacks good political insight, and the statement needs improving a lot.

This is terrible! I actually

Mon, 17/09/2007 - 15:50

This is terrible! I actually wouldn't look twice at a person who sent this if I were an admissions tutor. Where is his punctuation?

Tue, 09/10/2007 - 11:10

being a laubour MP i can see potenshial in this young mans personal statement if he however changed to the right party he may have a chance in life, if he stays torie he will fail and probably be casted into hell.

Tue, 09/10/2007 - 11:43

i want to be a cosevative but i have testicals so they wont except me.

Mon, 15/10/2007 - 14:52

Did this kids actually read this through? this makes me cringe!

It most certainly needs to be

Sun, 31/08/2008 - 14:48

It most certainly needs to be redafted, and the 'music heals my soul'sentance, how do you expect any university take you seriously. Also hanging out with your friends is irreleant in a PS. Focus Focus on what course you want to take, this PS lacks direction. Good luck with the much needed redraft.

This personal statement was

Sun, 21/09/2008 - 05:22

This personal statement was not appealing at all.

Wed, 05/11/2008 - 10:52

ideology sorry.

How can you be a member of

Sun, 06/09/2009 - 19:01

How can you be a member of the Conservative party and not have a political ideology at the same time? That doesn't even make sense. It seems like you don't even understand politics.

Mon, 19/10/2009 - 15:11

This statement is like like a burp on a hot summers day.. excellent work amigo!!!

I find myself wondering if

Sun, 10/01/2010 - 14:48

I find myself wondering if this is a troll...

If it is, vastly successful. If not, try again at the PS, and talk to a tutor, or similar adviser.

He commented on his ability

Fri, 14/01/2011 - 09:29

He commented on his ability to make friends, like it's some sort of achievement hahahaha

Thu, 07/07/2011 - 09:42

I don't have many friends :(:(:(:( r u plz help meh?

Tue, 20/03/2012 - 22:04

Very good blog.Really thank you! Cool.

Our future leader

Thu, 20/12/2012 - 02:20

This personal statement has convinced me that this man will be the Prime Minister in the future. I long for the day when he will heal our country's soul.

"I have just joined the

Wed, 25/09/2013 - 23:07

"I have just joined the Conservative party...although I have no political ideology" 😂

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