Model United Nations

Model United Nations (informally abbreviated as Model UN or MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate participants about civics, effective communication, globalization and multilateral diplomacy. In Model UN, students take on roles as foreign diplomats. Participants research a country, take on roles as diplomats, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems.

Model United Nations conferences simulate United Nations, International Organizations, and governmental bodies such as the World Health Organization, the African Union, and government cabinets - in which participants are assigned to represent countries, organizations, or leaders in order to debate pressing international issues. Over a series of committee sessions, “delegates” or attendees to the conference, have to work together constructively in order to introduce working papers and eventually draft resolutions. The sessions end when the committee votes on all the introduced draft resolutions, generally choosing to adopt a single document that addresses the problem being discussed. The sessions are moderated by a Chair, along with Assistant Chairs, and are run under rules of parliamentary procedure which are expanded upon later.

Participating in Model United Nations is an excellent way to develop one’s negotiation skills, learn to communicate and form solutions with peers, as well as to broaden one’s perspective on a variety of international topics. Delegates gain invaluable leadership experience as they work with international teams on important issues, forming solutions to important global problems.