About YMUN
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.