Checks & Balances is a student-run magazine with a focus on current events, politics, economics, human rights, technology, conflict and security, among other internationally oriented topics.

Our goal is to open up new perspectives on what’s going on around the world, and to provide new viewpoints on important global topics. We publish three print editions throughout our academic year, as well as updating our website every Monday. We hope you enjoy our articles as much as we have enjoyed cooking, dancing, drinking and writing together to bring you our finished product!

Stay tuned for more articles and insights! With love, the Checks & Balances family ♡

The 2025-2026 Editorial Staff:

Annika Koch Editor-in-Chief
Hey hey! I’m Annika, last year’s Layout Editor and this year’s Editor-in-Chief. Although I was born in Germany, I grew up in Mexico and England. I can’t go a day without listening to music or complaining about my hair having a personality of its own. If I’m in the UB, you’ll see me go through 100 snacks- I swear it helps me study!

Line Bodil Bijleveld Secretary
Heyy, I’m Line, the secretary this year. I’m a first-year student from Groningen. I love travelling, movies, reading, music, I could not tell you which genre though, because it changes every week:) I also love hanging out with my friends and swimming. I could spend the whole day at a swimming pool or at the beach!

Loek Quirijn Rikhof Treasurer, Layout Editor
Hi, I’m Loek, first-year IRIO student and treasurer as well as Layouter for C&B. I’m from the Netherlands, and I like literature, music and all things culture. I spend my free time running, playing guitar or running up against deadlines.

Ilse Westeneng Lay-out Editor
Heyy, I’m Ilse, and I’m one of the layout editors this year! I’m from Groningen, in my second year of IRIO, and I’m interested in history and cultures. Outside uni, I love spending my time playing bass guitar, listening to music (especially rock and jazz-funk) and reading books.

Tishya Tiwary Layout Editor
Hi y’all (: I’m Tishya, a first-year student and one of the layouters of C&B this year. I’m from India, and I love movies, poetry, philosophy, sketching, cooking, politics, books, crocheting, singing, piano, cello and honestly just too many interests that my parents’ wallets are still recovering from!

Charlotte d’Harambure PR Editor
Hi! I’m Charlotte, a first-year student in International Relations and International Organisations (IRIO). I’m French, but I’ve lived abroad my whole life, which has given me a deep appreciation for different cultures and global perspectives. I’m passionate about international affairs, diplomacy, and global cooperation, and I love engaging in meaningful conversations. I’m a social and open-minded person, always happy to exchange ideas and learn from others.

Sam Tengbergen Reporter
Hello, I’m Sam. Born and raised in Groningen. I am now doing a Master’s in the security track. I enjoy a good series, playing or watching football and chess.

İdil Erkan Reporter
Hey, I’m İdil, I’m from Turkey, and one of the reporters of this year. I’m a first-year student in IRIO with a strong interest in development and economics. Besides university, I enjoy watching movies, learning about different cultures, listening to jazz and rock, reading books, swimming, and debating.

Esther Lainez Board Representative
Hi everyone! My name is Esther, I am the PR of Clio and therefore the Board Representative of Checks and Balances. I love reading, spending time in nature, and doing creative or fun activities with the people that I love.