What are MUNs?

Model United Nations were already held for many years in different places throughout the world – also numerous conferences in Germany by now.
The idea of this simulation arose as “Model League of Nations” during the time of the League of Nations, the forerunner organisation of the UN. The oldest MUN, the National Model United Nations, takes place in the US. The rules are always the same: you are a diplomat for one week and represent for example Americas’ position concerning the Iranian atomic programe, Saudi Arabias’ perception of religion and freedom of press or argue as a representative of France for the abidance by Human Rights in Human Rights Council.

National Model United Nations (NMUN) has taken place in New York, USA, since 1946 and is the biggest and the most renowned UN simulation throughout the world. NMUN is organized by the National Collegiate Conference Association (NCCA) and provides the opportunity for students from all over the world to experience on location the work of the United Nations in an international atmosphere. This time more than 3.000 students attend the two annual NMUNs in New York.

World Model United Nations (WorldMUN) is organized by the Harvard University and takes place in different cities in all continents once a year with students from all over the world. Every year more than 1.600 students from about 42 different nations attend WorldMUN, which were hosted in China, Brazil, Egypt and Scotland during the last years. 2009 WorldMUN will take place in The Hague, Netherlands.

These two most established MUNs provide you the opportunity to discuss with future diplomats about current political problems within an international atmosphere. The intention is always to agree on a joint resolution. After the Opening session (the opening session for the annual NMUN Conference is held in the General Assembly Hall at UN Headquarters) the delegates represent their country within the committees.
You will have the unique chance to simulate the decision process of the United Nations within an international atmosphere. By attending these MUNs you get the opportunity to learn more about international policy with more fun and intensity than by attending a lecture at the university.