Typically held over 3-5 days, Model UNs allow students to take on the role of ‘delegates’, representing diverse countries who are then split into various committees to discuss a range of topics, from defence and security, to human rights or the environment.
The Monash International Affairs Society is one of the best performing university societies in Model UNs, not only in Australia but in the World. MIAS has a rich history in MUNs, having co-hosted the 2013 Harvard World MUN, hosting the 2015 Victorian MUN and winning awards in various others. MIAS regularly sends delegations to NMUN in New York and Harvard WorldMUN, as well as interstate and local MUNs. MIAS also hosts an annual Model UN conference, MUNash, which generally takes place in Monash’s Semester 2 mid-semester break.
What is MUN?
During a MUN, the aim of each committee is to produce a resolution written in the style of the United Nations General Assembly and agreeable to the majority of Committee members. In order to achieve this, delegates must negotiate with each other to find an achievable solution keeping in mind the diplomatic constraints of their represented country, and how that country may view such a proposal. Outside of formal committees, events such as social and speaker events fairs provide delegates with the opportunity to meet and network with one another.
To help you understand MUN a bit better, we’ve made a series of THREE videos to help you get up to speed on everything from the rules of procedure to negotiating.
Lecture 1: Rules of Procedure
Lecture 2: Negotiation