Atrium

ISSUE NO. 1 | JULY 2018

68TH MODEL UNITED NATIONS OF THE FAR WEST

atrium

ONE JOURNEY. ONE FOCUS. ONE HEART.

Welcome Readers!

In this issue of Atrium Magazine, we are pleased to present to the public, the 68th Session of the Model United Nations of the Far West (MUNFW). This will relate to the series of events documenting the journey of the MUNFW delegates, from the moment they handed in their application forms, their successful participation in the event, until they landed back home. We welcome you to witness the journey that led these students into an ambitious achievement, and promising investment.

This issue focuses on the common goal that binds the MUNFW journey of each delegate. That experience is likened to the ‘Atrium’, a central court in ancient Roman infrastructure. In the same manner, this magazine was named Atrium for it represents the Model United Nations of the Far West journey which is the core of the learnings of International Studies Students. Indeed, all the lessons learned in the four corners of the classroom are put together in one central area, the MUNFW.

Each delegate has her own reason to join the MUNFW. Some wanted to go the US, Some wanted to experience what it was like to be a diplomat and some saw the MUNFW as an investment for the future. More so, each delegate has experienced various difficulties throughout the training.

Although, despite these different difficulties and reasons to join, all of the delegates are interconnected into one common goal– and that is the hunger for learning. In addition, in times of difficulties, tears were shed, but in those times the delegates learned to be steadfast. Nonetheless, it was not always tears and difficulties in many cases.The delegates also shared laughter through their achievements in having been granted the prestigious Slanczka Award during the MUNFW. Truly, the MUNFW journey was a rewarding experience, full of learnings and laughter. I hope this issue will inspire students to join the next Model United Nations of the Far West and continue Miriam College’s legacy as a champion of diplomacy and International relations.

t no to

-Patricia Yuma

ed

it

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-Bea Bakabak

This magazine just brings back so much memories!

Can't wait to share it to everyone.

th e

es

Nostalgia hit me on full blast because of this magazine.

The magazine helped me revisit some of my treasured memories.

-Anfernee Fabre

This magazine brings back wonderful memories. It's a pleasure to tell our story.

This made me reminisce my MUNFW Â journey. I was also able to re-evaluate the lessons I've learned during the conference and my plans in the future.

-Joyce Collera

-Patricia Asuncion

TABLE OF

What is the MUNFW p. 1

Delegates' Profile + Acknowledgments p. 5

MUNFW Process by Ms Durano p. 3

Agendas and Committees p. 2 Conference Proper p. 17

CONTENTS Meeting with Chilean Consul-General p. 20

4th MCIS-MUN p. 29

Travel Diaries p. 21

Courtesy Call in Philippine Consulate p. 19

69th MUNFW UNDP Chairs p. 30

MUNFW

By Patty Asuncion

what is it?

Model United Nations of the Far West is a simulation program for college students wherein they participate in model sessions of the United Nations. This is to advance their knowledge on the nature of the work in the United Nations, and understanding on nations of the world such as their policies, and their relationship with one another. MUNFW takes pride in its academic excellence, quality of preparatory materials, and interdisciplinary approach to international relations The first session of Model United Nations of the Far West was held at Stanford University in 1951 with three hundred and fifty participants. MUNFW is known for its autonomy, high quality of its delegates’ participation and authenticity of its sessions.

For over two decades, Miriam College has built a tradition of sending its most qualified third year International Studies students to the Model United Nations of the Far West. This enables students to take classroom learning to practical model UN simulation environment and learn essential skills for future careers. The organization has recognized Miriam College students for their excellence in demonstrating knowledge of and depth in diplomacy throughout the years.

POWER OF THE POWERLESS: Strengthening Vulnerable Populations

The 68th Annual MUNFW Session’s theme is “Power of the Powerless: Strengthening Vulerable Populations”. The conference was held in San Francisco, where the United Nations was founded in 1945, last April 20-24, 2018.

As mentioned by the 68th Session Secretary General, Aaron Holtz in his speech, “The theme couldn’t be more timely. As our world becomes more interconnected through the forces of technology and globalization, our futures become entwined. Massive challenges face our planet: from mass migration which is testing cultural, economic, and political systems; to new and ongoing conflicts which continue to destabilize regions and negatively impact on sustainable development and human rights; from volatile food and financial markets which exacerbate malnutrition and threaten global financial integration, to climate change which presents a true existential crisis for humanity. We see the reaction to these stresses across the world, giving rise to increased xenophobia and nationalism, and giving a platform once again to despots and demagogues that often seem plucked from another era. These leaders stoke fears of “the other” and look for easy scapegoats for complex global problems.

Aaron Holtz Secretaty-General, 2018

We’ve seen this story before, and we don’t like the ending. But there can be another way. We can build a future of global cooperation, where our shared medium and long-term future is prioritized over our individual short term interests. Where wealth is shared more equitably; where conflicts are adjudicated peacefully; where human rights for all, without discrimination, are pursued above all else. A future where your progress is my progress, my progress is your progress, and OUR progress is our shared agenda. Figuring out how to arrive at this future is at the core of what we are doing here…”

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AGENDAS AND COMMITTEES GENERAL ASSEMBLY

2ND COMMITTEE

The General Assembly is the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations.

The Economic and Financial Committee deals with issues relating to economic growth and development.

Comprising all 193 Member States of the UN

RESPONDING TO THE IMPACT OF GLOBALIZATION ON SMALL AND MEDIUM ECONOMIES THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DEBT SERVICING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUPPORTING SUSTAINABLE DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE DIGITAL ERA LDCS

IMPLEMENTING THE RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT DOCTRINE THE IMPACT OF THE WORLD DRUG PROBLEM HIGH LEVEL: ENSURING THE PROTECTION OF REFUGEES

COMMITTEE 34

HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

The Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations of the United Nations that conducts a comprehensive review of all issues relating to peacekeeping.

The Human Rights Council is a United Nations body whose mission is to promote and protect human rights around the world.

PEACEKEEPING AND PEACE-BUILDING MANDATE PERSONNEL, CONDUCT, DISCIPLINE, COOPERATION AND MITIGATING THE NEGATIVE OUTCOME PEACEKEEPING AND PEACE-BUILDING STRATEGIES

STRENGTHENING CIVIL SOCIETY PROTECTING FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION PRIORITIZING HUMAN RIGHTS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

4TH COMMITTEE The Special Political and Decolonization Committee considers a broad range of issues covering a cluster of five decolonization-related agenda items.

DECOLONIZATION IN THE MODERN ERA APPLYING FOOD SECURITY IN CONFLICT ZONES THE QUESTION OF PALESTINE

COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN CSW is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of women.

CLOSING THE GAP IN PROVIDING ACCESS TO WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE EMPOWERING THE ECONOMIC, POLITICAL, AND SOCIAL LIFE OF WOMEN PREVENTING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN 2

There are many Miriam College Students, aspiring to be one of the delegates of the Model United Nations of the Far West, to continue Miriam College’s legacy as a champion of International Relations. However, few have been chosen. On the 68th Session of the MUNFW in San Francisco, California, 15 delegates were selected. But how did the IS department chose these delegates? Let’s find out from the MUNFW Adviser, herself, Miss Charity Durano:

1. What criteria must an IS student meet to qualify as a delegate to the MUNFW?

2. What does the faculty look for during the interview of applicants to the MUNFW?

- IS students who wish to apply to become a delegate to the MUNFW generally need to meet the following criteria: 1. She must be currently enrolled as a 3rd year International Studies student and has a CQPA of 3.0 and a major CQPA of 3.5 at the end of her 2nd year of studies.

- To begin with, we make sure that the information given in the application forms are complete; and then we proceed to ask questions based on what has been written. We also try to get a sense of the applicant’s level of maturity, her motivations, and her ability to work in a team.

2.

She should have no D-warnings during the first semester of her 3rd year of studies and no major disciplinary case since 1st year of studies.

- Successful applicants undergo an intensive training plan focused on critical thinking, negotiation and diplomacy, evidencebased research, oral and written communication skills, and teamwork.

Delegates-in-training must also take responsibility for completing all the paperwork needed for their US visa application and other travel documents required by Miriam College.

3.

Her family has the financial capacity to pay for the costs that will be incurred during the whole trip (approximately USD 3,000).

4.

She must have a valid Philippine passport that will not expire in the 6 months before travelling to the US. 5.

She should have no legal, medical or other impediment to travel abroad.

Q&A

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WITH

THE

3. What preparations must delegates undertake for the MUNFW?

FACULTY

ADVISER

Ms. Charity Durano

4. What benefits do delegates gain as they go through the training process and actively participate in the sessions of the MUNFW?

- The training process for the MUNFW helps delegates improve their critical thinking skills, identify and view problems and solutions from different perspectives, and develop their ability to address issues with limited information and time. During the conference, itself, they learn to quickly create and work in teams, to negotiate and exercise consensus-building skills, and to adjust to a rapidly changing multicultural environment.

5. How does joining MUNFW help students in their future career path?

- Delegates often find themselves re-affirming initial careers goals after experiencing the highs and lows of the Model United Nations of the Far West. They gain more insight about themselves such that they are more able to discern whether they want to specialize in either law, public service, management or advocacy.

They also improve skills that are important if they work in foreign service, international organizations such as the United Nations, or non-government organizations, whether international, regional, national or local.

Q&A

WITH

THE

6. Can you give some helpful tips to students who want to apply for the MUNFW?

- Students who are planning to apply as a delegate to the MUNFW should keep the following in mind: 1. Be goal-oriented. It is to the applicant’s advantage if she can prove that the choices she has made, from academic to co-/extracurricular, show that being a MUNFW delegate is a key goal of her college life.

2.

Be motivated. The faculty adviser looks for delegates who will get their work done without needing their hands held every step of the way.

3.

Have a positive attitude. It is also the applicant’s advantage if she has a positive attitude because this will help her cope with the different personalities and stressful situations she will encounter from training to the conference itself.

7. What is the role of the Faculty Adviser in the Model UN? - The MUNFW Faculty Adviser serves as an academic mentor, a trainer and chaperone of the students during the conference. She oversees the research and writing of preconference documents and learning the rules of procedure. She also coordinates with the MUNFW Secretariat on country assignments, US visa requirements, and other related concerns. After the conference, she monitors the students’ whereabouts throughout the duration of their stay in the US to ensure their safety and security until their return to the Philippines.

FACULTY

ADVISER

Ms. Charity Durano

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DELEGATES' PROFILE

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Bea Bakabak GENERAL ASSEMBLY

I saw MUNFW as a platform to develop my skills and to practice what I have learned in school from the complexities of international relations and diplomacy.

My favorite part in the MUNFW is that some members of our secretariat work under the UN. They have provided for us inspiring narratives about the life of being a diplomat. For me, it is a privilege that I am lucky to have been a part of.

The most significant learning for me is that the real achievement in the MUNFW is beyond the award we have received. It is the struggle, it is the hard work, and it is recognizing that we all have capabilities within us once we try to step out of our comfort zone.

I joined MUNFW in hopes of experiencing what it is like to be a diplomat. It was also a stepping-stone and a training ground which allowed me to seek beyond my limits. My favorite part about MUNFW was learning how to properly address myself and interact with people. I believe this can be used not only within the confines of a classroom but also in the workplace. Having good communication will help establish better relationships with people.

One significant learning I gathered from my experience is to have faith in the process.

The uncertainty of wanting to apply, the sleepless nights, the rush of excitement and fear during the conference, and the satisfaction of claiming an award– it all contributed to how fulfilling the experience was.

Joyce Collera COMMISSION ON THE STATUS OF WOMEN

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Kylie Cunanan SECOND COMMITTEE

I believe that utilizing every opportunity and going out of the comfort of our classrooms are effective ways to improve ourselves. I joined MUNFW to enhance my knowledge on diplomacy, and have a glimpse of my desired career.

I really enjoyed creating new memories with people I just met, and exploring a different environment. Being socially bold, I enjoyed interacting with different types of people and discovering beautful sceneries.

Having the guts to dive in amidst the uncertainty of the results is my most significant learning from MUNFW. The application process was difficult, but with faith and courage I was able to decide to just try.

I joined MUNFW because I saw it as an opportunity to improve my skills that I will be needing for future career path and to utilize my prior academic experience on the UN systems, States and international relations.

My favorite part about joining MUNFW is working on three consensus papers with my co-delegates. I will always treasure this experience because it made me realize that team work and uniting to reach a goal is very important.

My significant learning in this experience is the value of unity for a team to function effectively. It is important to have a good support system to get through the process and a team that works together to achieve the same goal. I realized that every work in a team is important thus, every single thing I do, no matter how small it is, greatly affects the whole team.

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Patty Asuncion COMMITTEE 34

Anfernee Fabre FOURTH COMMITTEE

One of my goals was to work for the UN someday and I saw the MUNFW as an opportunity to experience what it would have been like to do so.

It would be hard to pinpoint what exactly my favorite part was but if I were to generalize, it would be the experience itself.

Besides the technical skills I gained, I think I learned that there are things I can do if I genuinely, sincerely tried. Also, I learned that hard work won't always lead to the results I want, so sometimes it pays to work smart rather than work hard.

I decided to join MUNFW to further gain knowledge about international relations. I trust that participating in this conference would lead me to my exposure on diplomacy.

Most importantly, I expect that while I am learning, I am also able to hone my skills and capabilities at the same time.

The best part about joining MUNFW is how you can get to meet a whole new lot of people, and at the same time gain the kind of academic experience that exhibits you to a different working environment.

MUNFW has helped me ease my indecisiveness on my career path. It motivated me to pursue diplomacy even more. It also inspired me to really push out of my boundaries and to not fear of just going for it because life is too short to keep missing out on opportunities.

Katelyn Sosing GENERAL ASSEMBLY

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Patricia Yuma SECOND COMMITTEE

I joined the MUNFW because I wanted to achieve a dream, to scratch it off of my bucket list, a dream to represent my school and my country in the field of Diplomacy.

My favorite part about the MUNFW is meeting new people. Not just in the actual conference, but also my fellow delegates from MC. I have learned to be responsible in all aspects. Being responsible can be seen in character and I value my character because this is where people see who I am.

I was curious to know how the UN works.

I also wanted to practice to speak in front of many people without any fear or hesitation.

Simple as it may appear, but my most favorite part of my MUNFW journey was the filling of applications and the set of interviews.

Throughout the MUNFW session, I learned that fear is the greatest enemy of a delegate. Likewise, in life when people are afraid to take risks, they would not learn or thrive from experience, and may suffer the consequences.

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Sophia Panergo HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

Jemary Tantiado FOURTH COMMITTEE

I wanted to showcase my capabilities and to show that I’m more than just a student in something the IS department has been proud of for decades.

One of my favorite things about joining MUNFW is that I was able to interact with people who have different nationalities without the presence of discrimination. I felt so accepted knowing that they looked at me as their equal.

From training to being a delegate, MUNFW taught me how to be alert, overcome my fear of embarassment, to be passionate, and to embrace my flaws.

I joined MUNFW because I wanted to broaden my knowledge about international relations and diplomacy, as well as use this knowledge to help solve issues happening around us.

My favorite part during MUNFW was being able to see my co-delegates in one long table negotiating and cooperating with one another to create draft resolutions.

I learned to be independent and firm in making decisions. Also, making draft resolutions with my co-delegates taught me the value of cooperation.

Michaela Miranda COMMITTEE 34

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Anjanette Bautista GENERAL ASSEMBLY

I joined the MUNFW to further challenge my passion in the field of foreign affairs, and to seek where such motivation can take me.

My favorite part about joining MUNFW was working with different kinds of people from different cultures and with different beliefs.

MUNFW trained me to be resilient and assertive with my decisions while maintaining humility in each step of the way.

I believe that the training and the actual experience would highly benefit me as an International Studies student by giving me a deeper understanding on how the United Nations functions. I also wanted to push myself further and to hone my skills in diplomacy.

My favorite part of the conference was the diplomatic night. I was able to spent some time with amazing delegates who worked hard all throughout the session and received our well-deserved awards.

I've learned that training and experience are needed to improve one's skills. I've learned to organize and synthezise my arguments better, be confident, and value the importance of negotiations, compromises, and teamwork.

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Crystal Tumapang HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

Patricia Gener FOURTH COMMITTEE

Besides it being a dream of mine, I wanted to join MUNFW because I saw how it helped shape International Studies students and give them some kind of identity in their field.

My favorite part is definitely the practice of our course in an international/ foreign setting.

I learned that knowledge and intelligence will not suffice. You need a whole lot of faith, determination and passion. I also learned that gdocs is the greatest invention known to man.

I joined the Model United Nations of the Far West because I knew it would be an unforgettable learning experience for me.

One of my favourite parts about joining MUNFW was being able learn from my experiences during the conference itself that any sort of pre-MUNFW training cannot compare to, and this includes being able to meet new people, and learning from them. The MUNFW not only teaches the students in the art of negotiations and diplomacy, but it is also an enjoyable experience.

Knowing how to communicate with other people, not just in the Model UN, but in a general, knowing yourself, and trusting yourself are important aspects that need to be considered, and these are a few of my significant learnings during my MUNFW experience.

Joan Torres SECOND COMMITTEE

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Shenina Badua COMMITTEE 34

I joined MUNFW because I wanted to learn how the United Nations works, to apply what I learned in school, and to improve my skills in research and public speaking.

Teamwork, patience, and the guidance that we received from our adviser made preparing for the conference my favorite part of the MUNFW. My significant learning in the MUNFW is knowing when to be independent and to be dependent on other people.

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Pre-Departure Orientation with Parents

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nts, for To my paremy needs. To providing s, who have my friend orting me since been suppmy co-Emirati, day 1. To n’t be we would l if we didn’t successfu and every have eachto the 68th one. And elegation, M U N F W d. thank you adua -Shenina B

The overwhelmin g support system from frie IS department, ands, family, College paved th nd Miriam in taking home the way for us Achievement A e Diplomatic my fellow del ward. And to egates, the highs and lows in months of trainin the past were the best da g we had whole academic ys of my life.

-Anjanette Bauti sta

y to express m I would likeatitude to my deepest gr friends who family and me and walked believed in roughout this with me th e IS department journey; thm College for and Miria this opportunity to giving me finally, my fellow grow ; andwho were with me delegates, s and downs. through up cion -Patty Asun

All this wouldn't be possible if it weren't for the loving support and prayers of my Mom and Dad. To my relatives, thank you for believing in my capablities. Your love has given me confidence to do all this. And lastly, to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who is my refuge and strength. My stronghold and provider, all praises and glory goes back to You! -Patricia Gener

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ank my th to e k li ld u I wo being parents for every learning supportingy I want to opportunitto. Also my coventure in or the wonderful delegates f. Most experience y, to the Lord importantl stained me all who has sut and guided me throughou to victory. an -Kylie Cunan

It goes without sa ng that I'm thankful for myi y parents and relatives for supp me wholeheartedly. orting course, I am also th And of for my friends and ankful delegates for being my co- me throughout thiswith

journey.

-Anferne e Fabre

I would like to than k my family for the full-on support. I know that MUNFW is not really a part of our 2018 pl an s I am thankful becaus but all supported what e you since I heard about I want MUNFW, is to be a the part of it.

-Patricia Yuma

t be possible All of these will no of my parents, without the help ne factors, our who were my be lty adviser, conscientious facuo, and the Ms Charity Duran18 Delegation, MCIS MUNFW 20 much whom I shared so n Francisco memories from Sayou all! The and back. Thank and MUNFW is a funrience that I worthwhile expe . will never forget -Bea Bakabak

Thank

I wish to than for making m k various people journey a dre y MUNFW my friends, mam come true; to le b a e b r e y sisters, my I would nev d learn all this fa m il y a n d experience ansupport of my Also,Tita Imethe IS department. e, for welcom e th if not for me to her hom y ing m y ll ia c e sp e family, most k you so so wish to thank e. Finally, I mother. Than eving in me and their unendin my parents for much for belig this endeavor encourageme g support and for supportin ldn't have done my MUNFW nt, throughout journey. of mine. I couthe pushing. All ll a it without you.

-Sophia Pan of this is for ergo -CJ Tumapang

tives, To my parents, rehla ost friends, and my nia , thank family in Californg me you for supporti and both financiallyy faculty otherwise. To m adviser and the r, thank Department Chaireciate you. I truly app done for what you've all me.

-Joan Torres

I want to acknow relatives especiallledge my parents for suppoy my dream of mine. I rting this never reached thiscould’ve without you belie milestone would also like toving in me. I Charity for mentothank Ms. throughout our ring us MUNFW journey

-Jem Tantiado g nts for givin e r a p y m k .I I than ort I needed p p u s e h t e k m to than mfy e k li o ls a ld o wou taking care relatives fIorwas in the me when ery own faculty USA.Our v iss charity durano, adviser, mg us. Lastly, I want for guidin y co delegates for to thank my MUNFW making m memorable. experience anda -Micha Mir

You!

I couldn't have done this without the people who have made my experience possible.

I thank my faculty adviser and Department Chair for granting me this opportunity, my friends and co-delegates for believing in me, and my family for encouraging and giving me the support I need.

-Joyce Collera

I would deepes like to expr for bei t gratitude t ess my throug ng very suppo my family wholehhout this jou ortive all faith in eartedly en rney and me to d me, and altrusting thei adviser o better; to ways inspir r Bing, f s, Miss Cha our faculty ing professor being out rity and Mi seeing ors; to my cstanding ss out ma how everyth o-delegates apprec de me love ing turned : and to iate all of yoand God, th u is is all even more; for You

.

-Kate lyn Sos ing

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usus in a C d e t ra Unmode mittee m o C d n 2

Raising of placards fo r motions an d voting

e 2nd Switzerland in th committee

The Delegate of Switzerland in Committee 34

The Delegat e of C giving her sp hile in the CSW eech duri General Deb ng the ate

es in the t a r i m E rab United A mittee m o c h t 4

Confer Delegates in the UNITAR session 17

P R O

y The General Assembl session hall

Diplomat ic Ach Awards o ievement three del f all egations

l e Genera s Chile in the Co h t n i E mmission on UA irie the gate of Points of Inqu e l e D e S tatus of Wom g n Th i r e w s n en her ya Assembl addressed to

Committee 34 at the Atrium during Unmoderated Causus, drafting a consensus resolution

he

ks at t Session brea Atrium

rence P E R

Committee 34, awarded as the best committee 18

COURTESY CALL

Philippine Consulate San Francisco

By Sophia Panergo On the 20th of April, the Miriam College delegation of the 68th MUNFW attended a courtesy call at the Philippine Consulate in San Francisco. The delegation was received by Consul General Henry S. Bensurto. Consul General Bensurto is a member of the Philippine Bar upon entering the world of diplomacy. He is also an expert on maritime security and on the West Philippine Sea issue.

During the courtesy call with the Consul General, he mentioned some of his experiences as a delegate during his Model UN days. He has given advice and tips on how to be a better delegate throughout the Model UN. Consul General Bensurto also shared his sentiments on Filipino Americans forgetting their own heritage.

Con Gen. Henry Bensurto Jr. welcomes Miriam College 2018 MUNFW Delegation

He mentioned that second-generation Filipino Americans are forgetting to speak the Filipino language, not having experienced being a true Filipino. Thus, Consul General Bensurto took the opportunity to orient the delegates with the program known as “Spark Connect Empower”, a movement wherein Filipino Americans could renew their relationship with their Filipino heritage.

The movement includes on-going activities like trips to the Philippines and networking with different Filipino communities.

The delegates were granted the privilege to be in an open-forum with the Con Gen. and have asked how is it like to be a diplomat. The Con Gen responded that it is great to be one, however, the process to achieve it is not that easy, and it would require passion and lots of hard work.

The Miriam College delegation learned a lot from Consul General Bensurto’s stories and his works as a diplomat.

Truly, the visit was an inspiration for Miriam College delegates to pursue diplomacy.

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MEETING WITH

Chilean Consul-General to San Francisco:

By Anfernee Fabre When our faculty adviser, Ms. Charity Durano,20first said that we would be meeting the Consulate General of Chile in San Francisco, a mixture of excitement and nervousness washed over us. The fact that our delegation would be representing his country, its interests and aspirations, in the MUNFW gave us a sense of trepidation. But at the same time, it gave us the will to do better.

Senor Enirque Barriga Larraín is the General Consul of Chile stationed in San Francisco, California. He is a public administrator who has a Master’s Degree in International Humanitarian Law and Penal Justice from University Obertat de Cataluña of Barcelona. He also obtained a Technical Specialist Degree on the European Union Organization from the same institution. Senor Barriga has been stationed in seven different countries before the United States, two of which (Sweden and Poland) have decorated him. The Ministry of foreign affairs has also awarded him with the Service Medal for his outstanding service.

Senor Barriga is a small man barely reaching my height of five-foot-one. It was the first thing I noticed when I first saw him in the hotel lobby. He was nothing like what I expected based on the background and image Ms. Charity showed us. He looked almost severe in his photo however, I soon found out that was not the case. He seemed excited, giddy almost to meet us and share his knowledge and experiences. He asked for pictures to be sent to his e-mail and made sure to learn all our names, even those who were not in the Chilean delegation.

After the initial introductions, the delegation of Chile was given time to converse with Senor Barriga regarding Chile. All five of us were given ample time to talk and ask questions to help us better understand Chile’s aspirations as a country, its stands on certain issues and what it is willing to do or compromise to achieve its goals. It would help us represent Chile better in the MUNFW. Senor Barriga’s knowledge and experience were evident with how he tackled each question carefully, making sure to answer each of our questions with all the minute details and nuances he can give. It was evident, then, that he was steadfastly loyal to his country. When he spoke of Chile, it was in the tone of a man proud to have been serving his country.

Meeting Senor Barriga was nothing short of inspiring. He is a steadfast and dedicated man who is devoted to his work and his country. To meet him before the conference certainly helped boost the morale of the delegation. Before meeting him, there was a sense of worry that we would not be able to represent Chile as accurately as we would have liked. But after meeting and conversing with Senor Barriga, it gave us the confidence to represent Chile as if it were really our own country. Of course, there was still a small fear that we would mess up but that same fear gave us the drive to do better, to make sure the Republic of Chile was represented well and with pride as he would have done.

The Chilean Delegation got the privilege to meet with the Con Gen of Chile to San Francisco

Sr. Enrique Barriga Larraín, with the Miriam College MUNFW 2018 Delegation

Tra Diar

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avel ries

Twin Peaks

City

Alamo Square 23

United Nations

Tour

Golden Gate Bridge

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Golden Gate Bridge

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Atrium, Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport

4 T H

S E S S I O N

O F

T H E

Miriam College International Studies MODEL UNITED NATIONS

It all starts here!

COMING SOON

2019 29

the 69th Session of the

MODEL UNITED NATIONS OF THE FAR WEST April 12-16, 2019

the United Nations Development Programme Comittee of the 69th MUNFW will be sponsored by Miriam College The 69th MUNFW UNDP chairs:

Bea Bakabak

Caryl Billones

Ielle Duran

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Diplomatic Night April 23, 2018

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