Model United Nations of the University of Chicago

MUNUC 2009 Conference

Introduction

For decades, the world's high school and college students have been the beneficiaries of a unique education in politics, diplomacy, and foreign affairs. The Model United Nations experience brings to life the problems that face the real world and allows participants to represent their assigned country's position and work towards resolving issues of global importance.

Now in our 21st year, MUNUC has distinguished itself as the premier high school United Nations simulation in the country. MUNUC has received considerable national praise for its professionalism and overall quality.

Purpose

Since its founding in 1988, MUNUC's purpose has been the following:

• To educate high school students in the arts of debate, negotiation, and public speaking by providing a forum in which they can hone their skills
• To introduce high school students to the fascinating realities and complexities of international relations through simulation of international organizations
• To demonstrate the potential of the United Nations in resolving international problems while demonstrating its limitations

The Conference

• Model United Nations of the University of Chicago (MUNUC) is a four day conference providing secondary school students (Grades 9-12) with educational simulations of United Nations and other international affairs-themed bodies.
• Our structured and informative simulations allow students to participate in parliamentary-style debate and diplomatic negotiations regarding a wide variety of international issues.
• MUNUC’s dedicated and experienced staff is committed to ensuring a safe and productive learning environment for all delegates.

The Simulations

• Simulations involve delegations of students, each typically representing a nation, working with one another in their respective committees to produce mock resolutions on global issues.
• MUNUC simulates a wide variety of committees, both large (e.g. 192 delegations) and small (e.g. 15 delegations).
• Examples of past simulations:
• UN Disarmament and International Security Committee
• The World Bank
• The Organization of American States
• The United Nations Security Council
• Past topics have ranged from the Israeli/Palestinian conflict to fighting AIDS in Africa.
• Examples of Topics:
• AIDS Relief in Africa
• The Use of Weapons in Space
• State Sovereignty and the Legitimate Use of Force
• Microfinance Institutions

Our Staff

MUNUC staff is composed of students and select alumni from the University of Chicago who undergo months of training in order to provide delegates with the best possible experience at conference. We develop comprehensive preparatory educational materials in the form of Background Guides for delegates and provide guidance on debate procedures to new delegates both before and during the conference.

At conference, our Information Services staff aids delegates by answering any questions they may have regarding their topic of debate or their own nation's policies. Our Delegate Services staff is available to aid delegates and advisers throughout the event with any problems they may have.

We also publish a daily newspaper, The Phoenix, with articles written in real time by delegates acting as reporters on committee simulation developments.

About Chicago

While you are in Chicago, there are many cultural and educational opportunities available outside of conference in which you and your students may wish to participate. Please refer to the See Chicago! section to see what Chicago has to offer.

Fees

• See Fees