Model UN

Catalog description

This course involves preparation for and participation in Model United Nations conferences. Each year colleges and universities send delegations of students to represent countries at Model UN conferences, meetings, and committees. Topics include international peace and security, disarmament, development and finance, peacekeeping operations, human rights, transnational justice, education, environmental issues, humanitarian assistance, and gender issues. Preparation is extensive and involves thorough understanding of the functioning and the work of the UN and the committees that students are assigned to. In depth research and analysis of the country to be represented is also required. Students are expected to demonstrate their skills by presenting, negotiating, and networking with other delegations to identify and draft possible solutions to the issues being discussed. The course culminates in a five-day stay in New York City in which students participate in meetings in and near UN headquarters.