“Model United Nations at Amity University Mumbai Fosters Global Dialogue and Diplomacy”
Amity University Mumbai recently hosted a conference called the Model United Nations (MUN) on its campus. The event, organized by Amity School of Behavioural and Applied Science in collaboration with DSW, aimed to bring together delegates from various countries to simulate the workings of the United Nations. A total of 130 delegates participated, including 30 International Press Core (IPC) members.
Model UN is a widely popular activity that allows participants to gain insights into the functioning of the UN. It attracts hundreds of thousands of students worldwide at all educational levels. Many prominent individuals in law, government, business, and the arts, including those at the UN, have participated in Model UN during their student years.
During the inaugural function, Professor (Dr.) A W Santhosh Kumar, Vice Chancellor of Amity University Mumbai, emphasized the United Nations Model UN Programme’s goal to establish and strengthen connections between the UN and Model UN participants globally. Amity University took pride in being the first in India to organize the Model United Nations, as it provides students with a deeper understanding of complex global affairs and strategic positions.
The Model United Nations (MUN) program enriches students’ simulations through guides, workshops, and visits to actual Model UN conferences, offering firsthand knowledge of the UN. It also encourages Model UN clubs to take real action in support of UN values and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Delegates were assigned to different committees and portfolios, such as the UN Security Council addressing the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the UN General Assembly discussing global resource allocation, the UN Human Rights Commission promoting and protecting women’s rights with respect to abortion, the UN Development Programme focusing on peace policies in developing nations, and the World Health Organization addressing mental health crises in developing countries. These committees engaged in rigorous debates and discussions.
The conference concluded with press conferences where resolutions were declared. Prior to the conference, the international press core delegates, acting as journalists, extensively researched their assigned countries’ policies, positions, and historical perspectives. The conference proceeded smoothly as journalists posed questions to delegates about their statements during the sessions, resulting in impressive responses and a few heated discussions.
The Model United Nations conference provided a platform for young leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, negotiation, and problem-solving. By actively participating, delegates developed critical skills while gaining a deeper understanding of global issues. The conference underscored the importance of diplomacy, cultural exchange, and international cooperation in addressing the world’s most pressing challenges. Overall, the MUN conference was a resounding success in shaping global perspectives and nurturing the next generation of responsible global citizens.