IdeaFest Student Spotlight: Joshua Brink Shares Project Findings, Plans for Future Research
Brink presented on his research project titled “An Economic Analysis of the United Kingdom Given the Possible Effects of Overthrowing the Northern Ireland Protocol.” David Carr, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Economics & Decision Sciences and professor of economics, served as Brink's advisor.
Following IdeaFest, Brink shared the details of his yearlong research project and the history behind it as well as his future career and continued research plans. This is what he had to say.
What did you think of IdeaFest?
It was a great experience getting to present my research and findings to the community. I also loved getting to see a wide variety of research topics from other students and learn more about the topics they have studied.
Can you provide a simplified version of your abstract and what your research is about?
My research paper examines the current conflict between the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) regarding the Northern Ireland Protocol negotiation. This negotiation was created following the UK’s decision to leave the EU in an event known as Brexit. The conflict has occurred because many people in the UK want to override parts of the protocol because they believe it is a burden for the UK’s economy. However, the EU does not want them to override it and has threatened to start a trade war if they do. My research analyzes if it is economically beneficial for the UK to override the protocol given the consequences.
What jumpstarted your research and why did you pick this topic?
While I was taking a course on international trade, I was required to write a five-page paper on a trade issue, and I chose to write my paper on Brexit. About a semester later, I needed to choose a research topic for my Honors thesis project, and I decided I would like to continue my research on this subject. Therefore, my research stemmed from a mini class essay, but I completed my current research for my Honors project.
My major is economics and one of my minors is international business, so researching a topic such as Brexit has allowed me to do research in both fields.
What did you discover through your research? What is your conclusion?
My research brought me to the conclusion that the consequences of overriding the protocol would most likely end in a trade war between the UK and the EU, which would be detrimental to the UK’s economy. Because of this, I argue that they should not override the protocol, and I suggest that the UK should instead try to find a compromise with the EU that would be beneficial to both parties. I also suggest that the UK should instead focus on building stronger trade relationships outside of the EU to grow their economy.
Do you plan on continuing your research on this topic?
In the fall, I plan on attending the University of Nebraska-Omaha for a master’s degree in economics with a concentration on international economics. While I am there, I hope to continue researching this topic since it is a constantly evolving issue. I would also love to continue doing research around this topic after I complete school and into my professional life.
