Who are we?
The Amsterdam Student Debate Association Bonaparte was founded in 1998. Since then, Bonaparte has become the best debate association in not only Amsterdam, but the Netherlands too. Bonaparte is a lively association, in which each member determines what they want from their membership. Some members mainly come to debate, others just for socialising. We don’t have any hazing or mandatory attendance, but instead have committees in which you can quickly become active. It doesn’t matter what you study, which political party you identify with or whether you are a bachelor or master student, we would love to get to know you! Many activities are organised throughout the year, such as parties, dinners, movie nights, a gala and various debate tournaments.
You can also find more information about our society at the Studentenwegwijzer.
What do we do?
Debate evenings
During the academic year we organise weekly debate evenings every Tuesday. Debates are held either in AP or BP debate formats. Interested to drop by? Non-members can drop by up to three times by letting us know here, we will notify you if you’re able to join! Due to the current corona measures, members have to register as well here.
Workshops and trainings
Experienced trainers deliver substantive courses and training sessions on some evenings to improve various debate skills and there is plenty of opportunity for practice for all participants involved.
Social events
We’re not just a debate association, we’re a family! Every year we organise major social events such as weekend get-togethers, trips abroad, and our end of year gala! Throughout the year we also organise various fun social activities such as borrels, picnics, pub quizzes, movie nights and game nights! All social events organised during the upcoming year will be planned in accordance with the applicable corona measures.
Tournaments
This combination of intensive courses and debates has proved successful, with Bonaparte scoring well in both national and international tournaments. We attend these tournaments regularly, and send nice contingents of members of varied experience so that everyone is given the opportunity to succeed, whether you’re a serious competitive debater or just enjoy the debating atmosphere.
Bonaparte Debate Open and the Dutch Nationals
Finally, Bonaparte is also responsible for the organisation of one of the largest national debate tournaments in the Netherlands, the Amsterdam Open, and we regularly host the Dutch Nationals too.