Introduction: What is Model UN?

Model United Nations is an academic simulation of the UN General Assembly as well as other multilateral UN bodies and International Organizations, that allows students to experience and practice international diplomacy. By assuming the roles of real UN ambassadors and representatives (delegates), students learn to develop and defend a variety of views and perspectives, including ones which they may not personally agree with, but that are espoused by the ambassador or country they are representing. 

In preparation for a conference, simulation participants must research their country's domestic and foreign policies, adding both to their knowledge of world affairs and to their appreciation of global politics. During the conference, delegates have a chance to turn their academic research into resolutions for debate in committee. In doing so, they hone their critical thinking skills including policy analysis, and their communication skills including conflict resolution and public speaking. It is through the debate and caucusing process that knowledge turns into understanding, and students gain a greater realization of global issues.

Philosophy: What is YMUN?

For over 34 years, YMUN has selected core staffers that channel their collective creativity and enthusiasm into  the most stimulating, exciting and best run committees on the high school model UN circuit. YMUN stands out as the conference that is more than just a competition. It is an engaging learning environment to practice international relations through the lens of MUN. To this end, our committees challenge our delegates to approach issues first and foremost from a substantive point of view, but also to look to their fellow delegates and dais staff as resources from which to learn from.

The intellectual atmosphere on the Yale campus where our conference is held, acts as a stimulus for the learning environment. Over the years we have invited prominent guest speakers and Professors at the cutting edge of international diplomacy to enrich the committee learning experience. We also offer opportunities during "Yale Day" for our delegates to immerse themselves in everything from Yale classes, to campus tours and student panels. 

The full engagement of delegates and advisors is essential to the success of YMUN. To this end, delegates will participate in pre-conference forums with their chairs, and are required to prepare position papers. Advisors are encouraged to work closely with the Secretariat to ensure that they are part and parcel of this learning process. Thus the process can begin before the conference, and continue thereafter. 

YMUN strives to create a truly global environment for our delegates. We have committees that focus on a diverse number of issues and regions, and a conference membership that reflects our dedication to involvement of international delegations. Our conference will challenge delegates to think more like global citizens and approach the issues they interact with from a wider and more worldly perspective.