Model United Nations (MUN)
MUN is a worldwide practice of simulation games in which participants take over the role of an international delegate representing a country in a simulated committee of the UN. It is a very challenging and pedagogically valuable practice that attracted a huge network of educational institutions training for and conducting MUNs. Today, more than 400.000 people participate in MUNs each year.
Work on MUN is based on the previous projects PATRAPO and the activites of the COG. The project PATRAPO extended the network to an intra-European cooperation for training for MUNs. For the time being, such a structure did not exist. The advantages of such a joint structure are the mutual support, possible synergy effects, and the widening of the respective horizons to different input and experiences. Besides it furthers intra-European relations and fosters EU values.
Participating in MUN allows students the acquisition of key knowledge on the UN and International Relations as well as skills in debating, writing and presentation. This particular combination of knowledge transfer bridges theory and practice. MUN can be called a skill alliance that helps to close the gap between universities and specific political and administrative institutions.
The seminars and MUN represent active-learning models that encourage a paradigm shift in teaching and learning by focusing on learning by doing. This will improve learning outcomes, provide students with self-empowerment as it promotes and rewards teachers by shifting their role to an advisory position within a network of advisors.
Students are involved in the joint blended MUN training seminar in various ways. They prepare for and work in the seminar individually, in pairs or in groups with students from their university but also from the other partners. They conduct their research, create presentations and lectures as well as input on various topics, engage in active debates and practice public speaking (1st semester). In preparation for the virtual or the real life MUN they work on a position paper for which they will do the research necessary and write it according to the formatting specifications. After handing in their position paper, they read and work with the other delegation’s position papers for the respective conference to be informed about other positions. For evaluation, they regularly provide feedback for their peers and teachers and at the end of each course participate in evaluations and review sessions (2nd semester).
Tips for Success at MUN
For academic careers and future working life, certain hard and soft skills are invaluable. MUN offers an opportunity to develop and train some of these. Below are some tips to help You improve these skills.
Public speaking: Use pauses strategically. Pauses allow for audience reflection and help you gather your thoughts.
Research and analysis: Use a variety of sources, including library resources, peer-reviewed journals and other academic sources, as well as government and NGO websites.
Negotiation: Be empathetic. Try to understand the other party's motivations and priorities.
Time management: Use tools that work for you, such as reminders and a daily planner.
Leadership and teamwork: Be a good communicator. Convey your ideas clearly and listen attentively.
Cultural awareness and sensitivity: Consider language barriers and non-verbal communication. Watch your tone of voice, speed of speech and gestures.
Overcoming MUN Challenges
MUN presents a huge challenge to its participants. Speaking in front of hundreds of people, working under pressure and long days of negotiations are only some of the possible challenges. Find out You can deal with those below.
Time pressure: Prioritize tasks and plan ahead.
Confidence: Break down large goals into smaller, manageable steps to build momentum and a sense of accomplishment.
Public speaking: Rehearse your speech aloud multiple times, e.g. in front of the mirror or of friends.
High workload: Take breaks! Short and frequent breaks can improve focus and allow you to catch your breath.
Stay focused: Minimize distractions, e.g. by using noise-cancelling headphones or avoiding unnecessary interruptions.
Team work: Clarify the roles so that everyone understands their responsibilities.
MUN Testimonials
Icon by shashank singh from the Noun Project