Model United Nations (MUN)
The highly anticipated second-ever Model United Nations (MUN) event hosted by Westford concluded on June 23, leaving participants inspired and more knowledgeable about global affairs. Held from June 21-23, the event brought together students, all eager to engage in diplomatic simulations and policy discussions under the theme “Global Perspectives: One World, Many Voices.”
The event kicked off with a grand opening ceremony, featuring speeches from this year’s Secretary General, David Isaac, and Deputy Secretary General, Sahil Dewani. The atmosphere was electric as delegates, dressed in formal attire, filled the auditorium, ready to represent their assigned countries in various committees. After the opening ceremony, delegates proceeded to their respective committees to begin the first round of sessions. The four committees – the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) – each tackled pressing global issues.
The second day was marked by intense debates and rigorous discussions. Each committee was presented with a crisis to solve, adding an element of unpredictability and urgency to the proceedings. Delegates had to think on their feet, adapt to new information, and find swift yet effective solutions.
The intense debates truly tested the delegates’ negotiation skills, pushing them to articulate their positions clearly, build strategic alliances, and find common ground amidst diverse perspectives. The high-stakes environment required quick thinking and adaptability as delegates navigated complex issues and conflicting interests. Their ability to negotiate effectively under pressure was crucial in drafting resolutions and achieving consensus, showcasing their growth as future diplomats and leaders.
The final day saw the culmination of efforts in all committees. Committees presented their final resolutions, showcasing the results of collaborative efforts and diplomatic negotiations. These resolutions addressed various global challenges and proposed actionable solutions, demonstrating the delegates’ understanding and commitment to global governance.
The closing ceremony was a fitting end to the event. Awards were given to outstanding delegates, recognizing their exceptional performance, leadership, and diplomacy. Each committee recognized the outstanding efforts of its delegates with several awards. Each committee recognized outstanding delegates with awards. The Best
Delegate award honored exceptional leadership and diplomacy. The Best Position Paper award highlighted the most comprehensive research. The Best Negotiator award celebrated superior negotiation skills. Honorable Mentions acknowledged significant contributions. The United Nations Security Council was awarded Best Committee for its exemplary performance. The organizing team also received appreciation for their meticulous planning and seamless execution.
Participants left the event with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of international relations and the importance of diplomatic dialogue. Many expressed their excitement about returning for future MUN conferences, eager to apply the skills and knowledge they had gained.
Ultimately, the second-ever MUN event hosted by Westford was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work of the organizers, the enthusiasm of the delegates, and the support of the educational institutions involved. As the delegates return to their daily lives, they carry with them valuable experiences and insights, ready to become the next generation of global leaders and diplomats.
This MUN event not only simulated real-world diplomatic challenges but also inspired a commitment to international cooperation and peaceful resolution of conflicts. It was a powerful reminder of the potential for young people to make a significant impact on the world stage.
Kavisha Sathsarane Perera
BSc (Hons) Business with Finance – LJMU
Participating in WUCMUN 2024 was an incredibly enriching experience, culminating in winning the ‘Best Committee’ for UNSC.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support and collaboration of my exceptional co-chair, Gurpreet Kaur, whose insights and dedication were invaluable. I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to our diligent admin, Dawood, for his impeccable organization and assistance throughout the event. Lastly, a special thanks to all seven delegates whose enthusiasm and contributions made our discussions dynamic and impactful. This victory is a testament to our collective effort and shared commitment to excellence.