MUN, More Like FUN!

Ayaan Javid, L6E

for negotiation and finding a solution even when countries have different views. It nurtures critical thinking as it shows that there is never one completely correct view and that there are so many different opinions. From the words “negotiation” and “country” you may be thinking, this is all well and good, but does MUN only help geopolitics?

When I attended my first Model United Nations conference, my first thought was: this is a battle. Students donning an armour of blazers, ties and polished shoes, with their choice of weapon being a shiny placard and an eloquent tongue. It was surreal being in a room with children so well versed on world issues and representing their countries’ views.

However, as the conference continued, I realised I was deeply mistaken in how I was viewing the conference. This was not the “Battle of the Disarmament and Security Committee”. I couldn’t have been further from the truth. I had forgotten that MUN does not have victors or the defeated. Instead, it emphasises the need

No, the MUN philosophy is applicable to anything and everything. If you are having an argument with your friend, just remember, their perspective is simply different and the only way to understand is by hearing them out. It has certainly helped me to become more level-headed.

Most people believe MUN is a solemn affair, with the only achievement gained being the passing of a resolution. This is false. Being in a room with other people your age means that it is easy to make new friends and meet people from different backgrounds. There are icebreakers, a gossip box and note passing which loosens the feeling of formality in the room. At the most recent MUN two weeks ago, I recall shaking while raising my placard, with my eyes scanning fervently over my notes. As I went in front of the committee to deliver a speech on “Conflict in Kashmir”, the Head Chair said to me, “Do star jumps your entire speech.” Yes, him being a teenager did mean that he said this just for kicks and giggles. But he also told me to do this to diffuse my strained mood and put me at ease before I started to speak.

The fact that MUN is led by children is often overlooked; children have elaboratesounding roles such as Secretary General and Secretariat. The fact that these roles are given to children means that young people’s opinions are allowed to be voiced without the obstruction of adults. The smooth running of MUN just proves that we do not need to be constantly spoon-fed information and can independently research in order to form a coherent argument.

So, don’t shun MUN and think it is just a stuffy, dull congregation of children, whose only goal in life is to become the Prime Minister of the UK, rather give it a chance and find the fun in MUN.