Model United Nations

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Buenos Aires MINU UN Model - 2007-11-06 - 4

Model United Nations (MUN) is an educational simulation and/or academic activity in which students can learn about diplomacy, international relations, and the United Nations. MUN teaches participants (delegates) speaking, debating, and writing skills, in addition to critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership abilities. Participants in Model United Nations conferences, known as delegates, are placed in committees and assigned countries to represent, or occasionally other organizations or political figures, where they represent members of that body. They are presented with their assignments in advance, along with a topic or topics that their committee will discuss. Delegates conduct research before conferences and formulate positions that they will then debate with their fellow delegates in the committee, staying true to the actual position of the member they represent. After debating, they work towards drafting resolutions and negotiating with allies and adversaries. They must also resolve conflicts and navigate the Model UN conference rules of procedure - all in the interest of mobilizing international cooperation to resolve problems that affect countries all over the world.

History

The first Model United Nations was held at Harvard University in 1951. It has grown in popularity since then, with hundreds of high schools and universities around the world hosting their own MUN conferences.

Conference Types

There are various types of MUN conferences, ranging from local, national, to international levels. These conferences vary in size, rules of procedure, and the complexity of topics discussed. Some notable conferences include Harvard Model United Nations (HMUN), National Model United Nations (NMUN), and The Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN).

Roles and Responsibilities

Delegates are the primary participants in Model UN. They are tasked with representing a country or NGO's policy stance on specific issues. Key roles also include the Chair or Director, who facilitates debate and ensures the rules are followed, and the Secretariat, responsible for the overall organization of the conference.

Preparation

Preparation for a Model UN conference involves extensive research on the assigned country's position, the topics to be discussed, and the rules of procedure of the conference. Delegates prepare position papers, practice debate and negotiation techniques, and sometimes draft resolutions in advance.

Procedures

Model UN procedures mimic those of the real United Nations, adapted to fit the educational goals of the simulation. This includes formal debate, moderated and unmoderated caucuses, drafting resolutions, and voting. The specific rules of procedure can vary from one conference to another.

Impact

Participation in Model United Nations has been recognized for its capacity to help young people develop a deeper understanding of current world issues, hone public speaking and negotiation skills, and gain confidence in public speaking. It also fosters global citizenship and provides a forum for students to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds.

See Also

• United Nations
• Diplomacy
• International Relations

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