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| 20 Mar 2026 | |
| Alumni Events |
Competitive debating at the Oxford Union reflects the society’s longstanding commitment to rigorous intellectual exchange, openness to diverse viewpoints, and the development of articulate leaders.
Taking part in debate competitions has provided generations of members with the confidence to think critically, engage across difference, and speak with clarity. For many, it is where they first find their voice.
Today, we are working to ensure that opportunity remains open to as many students as possible. To do so, we are seeking the support of alumni to strengthen and expand the Union’s debating programme.
At the schools level, Oxford Schools, the largest secondary school debating tournament in the UK, introduces hundreds of students each year to structured debate and critical thinking. It is often a first encounter with the kind of intellectual exchange that defines the Union and helps fulfil a core part of the Union’s mission to advance education through the provision of debate.
At the university level, alumni contributions directly support students representing Oxford at the World Universities Debating Championship (WUDC) and the European Universities Debating Championship (EUDC), the most prestigious competitions in international debating.
The cost of participation is significant: Approximately £750 supports one speaker at EUDC, covering registration and travel cost, with the cost of a team being £1500.
Similarly, approximately £2000 will cover the registration and travel costs for an individual at the next WUDC in Ottawa, while £4000 funds a full Oxford team at WUDC.
These funds make a tangible difference. They expand access within the Union and enable students, particularly those who discover debating only after arriving at Oxford, to compete on the world stage. For many, this is a defining experience that would not otherwise be possible.
By supporting the debating programme, you help ensure that the opportunities you benefited from remain accessible to the next generation of Union members.
If you would like to fund a student, support a team, or contribute to Oxford Schools, please click the link below.
If you are interested in making a larger contribution or arranging corporate sponsorship, we warmly invite you to contact our development team: development-admin@oxford-union.org
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St Michael's Street
