My First Model UN Experience: Lessons and Highlights from CoEMoN 2024

Posted on: 9 September 2024 by Stephanie Whelan in Blog

From the 26th to the 28th of August 2024, I had the opportunity to participate in my first Model United Nations (MUN), thanks to the School of Law and Social Justice. I took part in the Council of Europe Model of Negotiation (CoEMonN), a simulation of the Council of Europe held in Strasbourg, France.

About CoEMon

The Council of Europe Model of Negotiation (CoEMoN), organised by the Fédération pour la Diplomatie et les Nations Unies (FDNU) in collaboration with the Council of Europe, invites 225 European students to immerse themselves in the world of European diplomacy. Over three days in Strasbourg, participants engage in dynamic simulations of the Parliamentary Assembly and the Committee of Ministers, representing one of the 46 Member States in either French or English.

Topic and my political stance

During the event, I was a delegate of the Migration Committee. Our topic was Immigration and Europe’s Declining Ageing Demographic, an imperative issue today, and one I understood well. It is crucial to choose a committee you understand, as debating becomes far more enjoyable and easier.

As the delegate for the Republic of Ireland, I initially had to adopt the views of the Unified European Left Group (UEL). To prepare for this, I researched and structured my opening speech and position paper in line with the group's beliefs on the topic. This meant proposing resolutions to the issue as if I were a true member of the UEL. However, on the second day, I had the opportunity to represent Ireland as a country, rather than through the UEL.

The benefits of participating

This experience greatly improved my public speaking skills, as only one minute is given for your opening speech and debates. Even if you personally disagree with views of your assigned political party or country, it makes the experience more interactive and immersive. You learn to understand opinions which are different to your own and support them nonetheless.

Initially, I was concerned about being alone in my committee, but this fear quickly dissipated when I met some amazing people - now friends - right on the first day. Even though some of my new friends had to argue against me during the debates, it did not stop us from having amazing times during the social events and always maintained respect for one another. They taught me simple things, such as how knocking on your desk during someone’s speech means that you second it. They also always welcomed my notes and were always ready to help with any questions I had.

My opinions and personal revelations

Some of the people I met during the simulation were far more experienced than I, and were also honest when they believed some of my points could be improved. I was encouraged by people from across the whole of Europe, and their feedback always came from a place of respect and kindness. Be prepared to be treated as an equal, whether it’s your first or tenth MUN.

It is also worth noting that many of my fellow delegates were not studying law or politics. I met people studying medicine, economics and accounting. So, if you are not a law student and wish to get involved, I implore you to do so. The people you meet will not only become friends, but networking partners as you can rely on them for future questions or needs.

Many thanks to the School of Law and Social Justice Employability Team who informed me (and other current students) about this opportunity and provided contact details for individuals who could offer advice if needed. Be sure to keep an eye out for their emails, as they regularly share similar opportunities with current students!

If you would like to participate in an MUN, I'd also recommend checking out the My MUN website.