Model United Nations (Model UN or MUN) has been around for decades, and is a global phenomenon. Traditionally modeled after the organizational structure of the United Nations (founded in 1945), MUNs have grown far beyond the scope of the UN. The concept of Model United Nations can be found at nearly every big university in the world, and is found in high schools as well.
During a MUN, participants participate in an educational simulation of a political/historical organization/event. Bigger MUNs offer multiple Committees, either related to the Committees found in the United Nations, or other organizations. Examples of these can vary between the World Health Organization, the European Union, the UN Security Council, historical political reenactments, the African Union, etc.
Participants become honorable delegates of an assigned country. Representing a country in a committee means that you are the face of the country. You will make the decisions, speak on behalf of all your citizens, and negotiate in your country's interest. Participants research their country's position before the simulation, to ensure they are knowledgeable on their country.
The committees come together to discuss a specific subject. These subjects are ones which are problems in real life, and have an impact on the world. It is the committees purpose to discuss the subject, and, together with your fellow delegates, think about what you feel your committee must do about the subject.
We highly welcome first year students (as well as students from every other year), to better their debating and negotiating skills. AntwerpMUN has had the pleasure of seeing participants join for their entire academic career from the first year onward, which is something we highly recommend.
Before the MUN, you are expected to hand in a Position paper in February of 2017. We highly encourage extensive research on your country and its position on the topic, but this is up to you to follow up on. While the workload during the MUN itself can be intense (especially on the first day for new MUN participants), you can quickly adjust. We offer social activities in the evening for relaxation, and give enough breaks in between. Furthermore, our team is in contact with the university to ensure that any deadlines during our simulation can be moved to another date. You will be able to contact us if this applies to you.