The multi-session event was designed to move beyond theoretical learning by immersing students in the procedural depth of a UN debate. Participants—working in pairs as country representatives—entered the heart of the simulation. During the Opening Speeches, each "nation" formally declared its stance on whether to accept refugee populations. The experience then intensified during the Informal Debate (or "Unmoderated Caucus") segment, where representatives moved beyond prepared speeches to engage in spontaneous negotiation and passionate discussion on specific motions related to the crisis. Guided by the urgency of a gavel and sharp "30-second reminders," they felt the pressure of real-world diplomacy, where arguments must be articulated clearly and quickly under a two-minute time constraint.
By simulating the very institutions that uphold global governance, the program challenged students to develop a more nuanced perspective on SDG 16. Forced to balance national interests, humanitarian concerns, and international pressure, they experienced firsthand the complexity of building just and peaceful societies. The exercise underscored those meaningful solutions to global challenges require dialogue, negotiation, and strong, equitable institutions.
The session once again demonstrated the SDGxEL Project's commitment to experiential learning. By facilitating and actively participating in this intense simulation, the ambassadors honed critical competencies in communication, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning. They not only learned about the importance of international cooperation but lived it, gaining a profound appreciation for the ongoing work required to achieve peace and justice for all.
To learn more about our Programs and Activities, click here.
Or go to https://globalgoals.org/goals/16-peace-justice-and-strong-institutions/ to be redirected to the UN Website.