Model United Nations, also known as Model UN or MUN, allows students to roleplay delegates to the United Nations and simulate UN committees. Delegates participate in MUN conferences, across the United States and internationally. At conference delegates are assigned countries, UN committees, and real topics in international affairs. They are then given the opportunity to work with delegates from other universities to develop diplomatic solutions to the worlds most pressing issues. Model UN gives delegates the opportunity to develop substantial researching, public speaking, debating, and writing skills, as well as critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
“In the end, it comes down to values, as was said so many times here today. We want our children to inherit a world defined by the values enshrined in the UN Charter: peace, justice, respect, human rights, tolerance, and solidarity.”
There are several ways to get involved in Model UN at UNC Charlotte. There are two Model UN classes available through the Department of Political Science and Public Administration that allow you to get credit for your participation in Model UN. Or you can join the club, a student organization at UNC Charlotte.
DEBATE
In Model UN, delegates choose a country and a UN committee. They then debate pressing international issues from the perspective of the country they represent.
Some topics up for debate may include:
Refugee crises
Environmental sustainablity
Cyber security
Human rights law
Women in conflict
Global trade
DIPLOMACY
Delegates have the opportunity to act as representatives of their chosen country and work together to create diplomatic solutions from the perspective of their nation and others.
Through diplomacy, delegates develop the following skills:
Public speaking
Cross cultural communication
Teamwork
Understanding of international relations
Research
Working under pressure
Formal/Legal writing
TRAVEL
Each year Model UN delegates participate in conferences across the country and around the world. From Atlanta to Rome, delegates gain the opportunity to travel and meet people from all around the world.
Previous international conferences have included:
Madrid (2019)
Panama City (2018)
Montreal (2017)
Rome (2016)
Seoul (2015)
Brussels (2014)
Melbourne (2013)
Singapore (2011)
Taipai (2010)
