A Model UN conference is a simulation of the United Nations and its committees. Participants assume the roles of representatives of member states to the UN and address topics and issues currently on the UN system’s agenda. Through this simulation, participants in model UN conferences gain a unique understanding of how the United Nations works and the inner-workings of the international community.
From a developmental aspect, participants gain valuable skills in conflict-resolution, diplomacy, and oral and written communication skills. From a social perspective, MUN programs can allow students to meet other people with common interests from around the corner or around the world. It is estimated that over 1,000,000 people have participated in MUN conferences around the world since MUN conferences became popular about 50 years ago.
Model UN programs are widespread. There are over 175 conferences that take place in over 20 countries (although most conferences are conducted in English). Depending on the school, the average conference can have as little as 30 students or as many as 2,000. Participants in MUN programs have many different education levels, ranging from elementary school to the graduate level.
For more information about Model United Nations programs, please visit the United Nations Association for the United States of America’s World Wide Web site at www.unausa.org. The UNA-USA is considered the de-facto coordinating authority and also publishes a book of conferences around the world as well as other (free or low-cost) materials that can be used in conference preparation.
