What is Model United Nations?

Model United Nations is a debate and simulation activity which allows students to learn about world issues while improving public speaking, negotiation and research skills. Students typically take the role of a specific country and participate within a single committee modelled after real-world bodies, such as the Special Political Committee or World Health Organization. Each committee chooses one or more topics which students will receive beforehand, for which they must research and prepare their country's position prior to the conference. Then, at the conference, delegates act as representatives of their nation, attempting to pass United Nations resolutions through debate and negotiation with their fellow students.

At Michigan, various other opportunities are available for students. This year, more advanced roles include lawyers before the War Crimes Tribunal, delegates to the San Francisco Conference of 1945, high ranking officials of either the United States or China during the opening of China to the West, and members of the international press reporting on the conference and engaging in investigative journalism.

[ Back ]