STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

MASTERS IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

LONDON METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITY

INTRODUCTION:

I am Muhammad Afaq from Punjab, Pakistan and I am writing to express my keen interest in
pursuing a Master's degree in International Relations at London Metropolitan University. My
academic journey thus far, culminating in a Bachelor's degree in History from Punjab University
Lahore, has provided me with a strong foundation in understanding the past, which I now wish to
build upon by exploring the complex and interconnected world of international relations.
Throughout my studies in History, I developed a deep interest in the forces that shape societies,
nations, and the global order. History, after all, is not just a record of the past but also a lens
through which we can analyze the present and anticipate the future. The skills I acquired critical
thinking, analytical reasoning, and research are invaluable tools for understanding the dynamics
of international relations. In my history courses, I frequently found myself drawn to the themes
of diplomacy, conflict, and global cooperation, and I began to see how historical events and
patterns can inform contemporary global politics. My academic background has taught me to
appreciate the complexity of international issues, such as how economic, political, and cultural
factors intertwine to influence state behavior on the world stage. During my undergraduate
studies, I explored various historical periods and events that involved international interactions
such as the two World Wars, the Cold War, decolonization, and the rise of global institutions like
the United Nations. These studies sparked a desire to understand how global power structures
evolve and how countries navigate the challenges of diplomacy, security, trade, and human rights
in a rapidly changing world. I believe that pursuing a Master's degree in International Relations
will enable me to synthesize my historical knowledge with contemporary geopolitical analysis.
London Metropolitan University’s diverse and vibrant academic environment offers the perfect
setting to further my understanding of global affairs. The multidisciplinary approach to
international relations at your esteemed institution, coupled with its emphasis on practical skills
and critical analysis, aligns with my academic interests and future aspirations. I am particularly
excited about the prospect of engaging with faculty members whose expertise and research align
with my own interests in global politics, diplomacy, and international law. I am enthusiastic
about the opportunity to join London Metropolitan University and to engage with like-minded
individuals who share my passion for international relations. I am confident that this program
will be a pivotal step in achieving my career aspirations and in making a meaningful contribution
to global affairs.

WHY I CHOOSE THIS UNIVERSITY:

I have chosen London Metropolitan University because of its strong reputation for offering an
intellectually stimulating and supportive learning environment, particularly in the field of
International Relations. The university's emphasis on practical, real-world applications of
academic knowledge is something that truly resonates with my own aspirations. I believe that the
multidisciplinary approach to global studies, combined with its focus on developing critical and
analytical skills, will provide me with the tools I need to engage with the complexities of
international affairs in a meaningful way. One of the main reasons I am drawn to London
Metropolitan University is its diverse and vibrant academic community. As someone coming
from a rich cultural and historical background in Pakistan, I value the opportunity to study in a
global city like London, where students from all corners of the world converge. This diversity
will not only enrich my learning experience but also provide a broader perspective on
international issues, as I will have the chance to engage with peers who bring varied viewpoints
and experiences to discussions on global politics. Additionally, I am particularly impressed by
the faculty at London Metropolitan University, many of whom are experts in areas that align
with my academic interests, such as global governance, conflict resolution, and international law.
Their research expertise and experience in international diplomacy are invaluable resources for
students, and I am eager to learn from them and to engage in discussions that push the
boundaries of conventional understanding in international relations. The practical focus of the
program also appeals to me. I believe that theoretical knowledge alone is not sufficient to
understand the complexities of the world we live in today. The university’s commitment to
providing opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and direct engagement with international
institutions will allow me to apply my academic learning in real-world contexts. This aligns
perfectly with my goal of not just understanding global issues, but also contributing to finding
solutions to the challenges facing our interconnected world.

WHY I CHOOSE THIS COURSE:

I have chosen to pursue a Master’s in International Relations because of my deep interest in

understanding the forces that shape global politics and the relationships between nations. My
background in History has provided me with a solid foundation in understanding the past, but I
now seek to expand my knowledge to include the dynamic and ever-evolving field of
international relations. The study of how countries interact, the challenges they face, and the
policies that guide their decisions is crucial for addressing some of the most pressing global
issues of our time, from conflict resolution to global economic cooperation and human rights.
This course aligns perfectly with my academic interests, as it offers a comprehensive exploration
of global issues from multiple perspectives. I am particularly drawn to the interdisciplinary
nature of the program, which integrates political science, economics, law, and history fields I am
already familiar with, but now wish to explore in greater depth within the context of global
relations. My history studies have equipped me with critical thinking, research skills, and an
understanding of the historical events that have shaped international relations, but I am eager to
build on that foundation by learning how to apply these insights to current global challenges.
What excites me most about this course is its focus on practical, real-world applications of
international relations theory. I am keen to understand not only the theoretical underpinnings of
global politics but also how these concepts manifest in the daily workings of governments,
international organizations, and global institutions. The opportunity to engage with case studies,
policy analysis, and practical simulations will allow me to develop a nuanced understanding of
the complexities of diplomacy, international law, security, and development. Additionally, I
believe the critical analysis skills I will develop through this program will be invaluable for
assessing and contributing to policy decisions that influence the global stage.

WHY I CHOOSE UK:

I have chosen to pursue my studies in the UK because it is home to some of the world’s most
prestigious universities, known for their academic excellence, diverse student populations, and
strong global influence in fields like International Relations. The UK’s rich history of diplomacy,
its strategic position in global politics, and its long-standing traditions of fostering intellectual
exchange make it the ideal location for me to pursue advanced studies in this field. Studying in
the UK will provide me with a unique opportunity to be immersed in an academic environment
that is not only rigorous but also diverse and internationally focused. The UK’s global outlook,
combined with its strong reputation for research and teaching, particularly in areas of
international politics, governance, and law, offers an ideal setting for someone like me, who is
keen to explore the intersections of history, politics, and global relations. Furthermore, the
country’s status as a hub for global diplomacy and international organizations means that I will
be surrounded by opportunities to engage with leading experts, practitioners, and institutions that
shape the world’s political landscape. In addition, the UK’s multicultural environment offers a
stimulating and diverse atmosphere that I believe will enhance my personal and academic
growth. With students from all over the world, I will be able to engage with a variety of
perspectives on global issues, and this exposure will be invaluable in developing a more nuanced
understanding of international relations. The opportunity to interact with peers and professors
from different cultural, political, and geographical backgrounds will broaden my perspective and
deepen my understanding of the global challenges we face. The UK’s long history of scholarship
and its role in international diplomacy make it the perfect location for someone with my
academic interests. The country’s contributions to the development of international law, political
theory, and global institutions like the United Nations provide a rich context in which to study
international relations. Moreover, London, as a major global city, is a center of international
policymaking, economics, and cultural exchange, offering unparalleled access to political events,
academic conferences, and internships that will further enhance my education.

MY FUTURE TIES AND ASPIRATIONS WITH HOMELAND:

Upon completing my Master's in International Relations, I am eager to return to Pakistan and

contribute to the development of the country’s diplomatic, political, and international
engagement strategies. The knowledge, skills, and perspectives I will gain during my studies in
the UK will be invaluable in addressing the complex challenges facing Pakistan in the global
arena. I intend to use my education to help strengthen Pakistan’s role in international relations
and to work towards enhancing its diplomatic ties, particularly in areas such as regional security,
economic cooperation, and sustainable development. Pakistan's foreign policy is deeply
intertwined with its geopolitical situation, and I aim to contribute to shaping policies that
promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. With my background in history and my
expanded knowledge of international relations, I hope to play a role in fostering stronger
diplomatic relations between Pakistan and other countries. This could involve working with the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contributing to think tanks and research institutions that focus on
foreign policy analysis, where I can apply both my academic insights and my passion for global
diplomacy. I also have a keen interest in working with international organizations that operate in
Pakistan, particularly those involved in humanitarian work, development, and conflict resolution.
Organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank, and various NGOs play a critical role in
Pakistan’s economic and social development, and I aspire to collaborate with them to help drive
policy reforms that will improve the lives of marginalized communities and contribute to the
country’s development goals.