FOBISIA MUN 2023-24 AT BIS HANOI Nia Cooper Teacher of Mathematics and Head of Enrichment & BIS Hanoi MUN Director British International School Hanoi
British International School Hanoi was honoured to welcome more than 150 student delegates from 13 International Schools across Asia for the FOBISIA Model United Nations (MUN) 2023-24. How do we protect our seas and marine life? How do we ensure digital privacy in the age of artificial intelligence? How do we safeguard the rights of women in conflict zones? These were just some of the big questions tackled by student delegates at the conference. The theme of the conference was “The Future of Asia” and all committees and topics were related to this continent we are lucky to call home. The FOBISIA MUN was a valuable opportunity for students to learn more about the role of the United Nations, as well as develop skills such as communication and collaboration, at a time when international relations are more important than ever. Schools from Vietnam, China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia, Laos, and Thailand joined together for meaningful discussions, spirited debates, and thoughtful deliberations on topics that hold great significance for our diverse continent. With 20 nationalities represented, it was truly an excellent platform for students to foster diplomatic relations with each other, as they will inevitably engage with diverse cultures in their life journeys. At the Opening Ceremony we were privileged to welcome His Excellency Mr. Iain Frew, His Majesty's British Ambassador to Vietnam, as the keynote speaker. Ambassador Frew inspired the delegates by sharing his experiences from the five international postings he has held as a diplomat. Referencing his time representing the UK in both Russia and the EU, Ambassador Frew reflected on the positive outcomes achieved by diplomacy, as well as those times when a resolution could not be found. Ambassador Frew described diplomacy as “an art, rather than a science,” emphasising how successful diplomacy creates solutions where the framework 30