Context: Model UN is practiced by close to a million middle, high school, and university students around the world each year. It is a popular and engaging way to learn about complex global issues. In a MUN simulation, students assume the role of a diplomat of a foreign country and look at an issue or problem through the lens of their 'adopted' country. Students then work together to forge consensus around a resolution that addresses the issue. It is both highly academic and inherently social, making it a fun way to learn about complex, multi-faceted issues.
Skill Development: Public speaking and debate are most commonly associated with MUN participation, but there are other academic and soft skills that grow through Model UN participation. To successfully participate in MUN delegates must know their issue well, understand multiple perspectives, argue their point of view and be open to compromise. These include highly targeted research, writing policy briefs and resolutions, working towards consensus, active listening, negotiation and advocacy. This skill development occurs while exploring real-world issues like climate change, food security, gender equality and equal access to justice. Participants take deep dives into these content areas while simultaneously developing the skills needed to convey a particular viewpoint and find consensus that drives real solutions.
Action and Impact: Participation in MUN should not only enhance and expand a student's knowledge base and interest in global and local affairs, but it should also inspire them to take action. ISM and MUN Impact have chosen topics and activities that resonate with young people. By supporting the Kickstarter Club Movement, students are able to connect to MUN students in Nigeria to learn how their individual actions can support educational equality for all.
The International School of Monterey, in partnership with MUN Impact, is committed to growing the MUN community in the Monterey area and to making this an accessible activity for youth in grades 6-12. While several schools in the region have programs, Model UN is largely absent, particularly in Santa Cruz and Monterey counties. To facilitate the growth of this community, the International School of Monterey is committed to the following:
Training Conferences: We will host in 2027 training conferences that help new delegates learn the necessary skills to successfully participate in MUN.
Free MUN Materials: MUN Impact will provide schools with online materials that can assist students and teachers in their emerging MUN programs.
Online Mentoring: Partnering with MUN Impact, schools can access free, youth-led training sessions on everything from how to research a UN issue to how to start a MUN club at their school.
Annual Conference: ISM will host a one-day middle school conference each spring for schools in the region, with the eventual goal of having these events be student-run and directed.
High School Secretariat: ISM and MUN Impact will foster a community of students committed to promoting education for sustainability and support of the SDGs. These students will run the middle school conference and set the groundwork for an eventual high school conference in the region.