Monash supports Model UN in Melbourne

More than 2000 university students from around the world will descend on Melbourne from 18 – 22 March to discuss international politics, international relations and diplomacy.

It is the first ever Harvard World Model United Nations (WorldMUN) to be held in Australia.

WorldMUN simulates the UN, and aims to engage and educate student delegates from around the world about contemporary international politics, international relations, diplomacy and the inner workings of the UN.

This year’s conference will see 2000 tertiary students from more than 80 countries attend.

Vice-Chancellor and President of Monash University Professor Ed Byrne said he was immensely proud the University was a major sponsor of the World Model United Nations. 

“I am personally excited by the many opportunities this conference presents to delegates attending from universities worldwide,” Professor Ed Byrne said.

“The Monash global footprint is the broadest of any Australian university and we will continue to engage with the world on all fronts, with our research, our teaching and our collaborative partnerships.”

Over the five days delegates to WorldMUN 2013 will discuss diverse topics such as foreign military bases, territorial disputes, endangered languages, the role of ethnic minorities in economic development, exploitation of migrant workers, foreign mining interests and renewable energy incentives.

Dean of the Faculty of Arts Professor Rae Frances said the University believes students should be encouraged to use their ambition and ability to tackle the big questions and help society address momentous challenges.

“At Monash we see a brighter future as more than just possible – it is something for which we are directly responsible; something we can help to create,” Professor Frances said.

“This is a philosophy with many parallels to the ideals which guide WorldMUN.”

Dr Noeleen Heyzer, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, said young voices are vital, and young people need to be recognised not just as future leaders, but also as today’s partners.

“It is clear that the next big challenge for the United Nations and the peoples of the world – especially our young people – is to ensure a future which is both inclusive and sustainable,” Dr Heyzer said.

I am therefore greatly pleased ESCAP is part of this key event, bringing together such a diverse and dynamic group of young leaders.”

For more than 20 years WorldMUN allowed students from around the world to participate in the largest and most diverse university conference of its kind. It aims to empower students as they discuss issues of international prominence.

WorldMUN 2013 will be held at the Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre from March 18 – 22.

For more information contact Glynis Smalley, Monash Media & Communications, on +61 3 9903 4843 | +61 408 027 848 or glynis.smalley@monash.edu. Professor Rae Frances is available for interview.