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Martin Leschke and Bernhard Herz

Do you care about global problems such as climate change, human rights, and conflicts? Do you want to work in an international organization and think about how to kick-start your career? This course on Model United Nations is well suited.Model United Nations replicates the working processes of the UN. You become the representative of a country at the UN. Through this lens, you think about innovative ideas on how to solve global issues, negotiate with representatives of other countries, and vote to adopt new international frameworks and action plans. You debate topics ranging from development to peace & security, human rights, and international law. The goal of this course is to enable you to participate in MUN conferences. You will learn how to prepare for and carry out your role as a diplomat at such conferences. Experienced MUN alumni will teach you how to research your country, UN committee and topic, write Position and Working Papers, give speeches, and apply UN-like Rules of Procedure. We invite you to put your skills into practice and participate in your first MUN conference after concluding the course.The course is designed to help you be more hopeful about our future. Leading experts from the UN and think tanks, as well as the EU ambassador tell you what it’s like, the real UN. Doing Model United Nations equips you with the necessary soft skills to master intercultural or challenging situations. You improve your communications skills, become more empathetic and confident, and resilient to stress. It is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in pursuing a career in politics, business, or law. Join the MUN world and you will experience something as vivid and energetic as few things before in your life!

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the history, structure and current policy frameworks of the united nations
  • Be inspired to creatively think about how to solve global problems from a countries’ perspective
  • Accumulate soft skills on public speaking, teamwork, communication, and negotiation
  • Acquire all necessary skills for fruitfully participating in model united nations conferences, from conference preparation (research, position paper writing) to at conference skills (speech & working paper writing, rules of procedure)
  • Get an insight into the working processes of the united nations

Syllabus

Foundations of (Model) United Nations
Research for MUN conferences
Position Paper Writing
Public Speaking and Speech Writing
Read more
Rules of Procedure
Resolution Writing

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches principles of law, equity, and procedures that are broadly applicable in today's business environment
Explores current and emerging issues related to business ethics through the lens of case studies
Provides a deep understanding of accounting practices and their purpose within the business context
Teaches practical methods for designing, developing, and managing information systems
Examines the role of data analysis and data science in driving strategic decision-making

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Model United Nations with these activities:
Review the book: "The United Nations: A Very Short Introduction" by Thomas G. Weiss
Get a comprehensive overview of the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations.
Show steps
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and ideas.
  • Summarize the main arguments and findings of the book.
  • Identify the different perspectives presented in the book and their implications for understanding the UN.
Join or form a study group with other students taking the Model United Nations course.
Enhance your understanding of course materials, practice your skills, and receive support from peers.
Browse courses on Model United Nations
Show steps
  • Find other students in your course or connect with them through online forums.
  • Schedule regular study sessions to discuss course topics, work on assignments, and prepare for conferences.
  • Share notes, resources, and insights with your study group members.
Attend virtual or in-person networking events related to international relations, diplomacy, or Model United Nations.
Expand your professional network, connect with like-minded individuals, and learn from experts in the field.
Browse courses on Networking
Show steps
  • Identify relevant networking events in your area or online.
  • Prepare an elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your interests.
  • Attend the event, actively engage in conversations, and exchange contact information.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Write a short essay on a global problem that interests you and propose innovative solutions from the perspective of a country's representative at the UN.
Develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills while exploring global issues from a country's perspective.
Show steps
  • Choose a global problem that you are passionate about and research its causes and consequences.
  • Develop innovative solutions that are feasible and tailored to the specific needs of a country.
  • Write an essay that presents your solutions and explains how they can be implemented through the UN framework.
Practice public speaking and speech writing by delivering mock speeches on global issues in front of a mirror or a small audience.
Improve your communication skills and gain confidence in presenting your ideas at conferences.
Browse courses on Public Speaking
Show steps
  • Choose a global issue and research it thoroughly.
  • Prepare a speech outline that includes an introduction, main points, and a conclusion.
  • Practice delivering your speech aloud, paying attention to your tone, volume, and body language.
Develop a position paper for a Model United Nations conference on a topic that aligns with your interests.
Gain hands-on experience in researching, analyzing, and presenting your position on global issues.
Browse courses on Model United Nations
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your position paper and conduct thorough research.
  • Develop a clear and concise statement of your country's position on the issue.
  • Provide evidence and arguments to support your position.
  • Write a well-organized and well-written position paper that follows the required format.
Volunteer with an organization that focuses on global issues or international development.
Put your knowledge into practice, make a positive impact, and gain firsthand experience in the field.
Browse courses on Volunteering
Show steps
  • Identify organizations aligned with your interests and research their volunteer opportunities.
  • Apply for a volunteer position and complete any required training.
  • Actively participate in volunteer activities and contribute your skills and knowledge.
Participate in Model United Nations conferences or competitions to apply your skills and represent your country's perspective on global issues.
Test your abilities, engage in simulations, and experience the workings of the United Nations firsthand.
Browse courses on Model United Nations
Show steps
  • Choose a conference or competition that aligns with your interests and research the topic.
  • Prepare for the conference by researching your country's position, writing position papers, and practicing your public speaking skills.
  • Attend the conference, participate in debates and negotiations, and represent your country's perspective.

Career center

Learners who complete Model United Nations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers are responsible for representing the United States abroad. They work to promote U.S. interests and values, and to build relationships with other countries. This course would be helpful for Foreign Service Officers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations and diplomacy. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a diplomatic career, such as public speaking, negotiation, and research.
Diplomat
Diplomats are responsible for representing their countries abroad. They work to promote their countries' interests and values, and to build relationships with other countries. This course would be helpful for diplomats because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations and diplomacy. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a diplomatic career, such as public speaking, negotiation, and research.
International Lawyer
International lawyers work on a wide range of issues, including human rights, trade, and environmental law. They may work for governments, international organizations, or private law firms. This course would be helpful for international lawyers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international law. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in an international law career, such as research, writing, and negotiation.
International Relations Analyst
International relations analysts study and analyze international relations. They may work for governments, international organizations, or private companies. This course would be helpful for international relations analysts because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in an international relations analyst career, such as research, writing, and presentation.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit managers oversee the operations of nonprofit organizations. They may work in a variety of different fields, such as education, healthcare, and social services. This course would be helpful for nonprofit managers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in nonprofit management. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a nonprofit management career, such as leadership, budgeting, and fundraising.
Journalist
Journalists report on current events and issues. They may work for newspapers, magazines, or online news organizations. This course would be helpful for journalists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations and diplomacy. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a journalism career, such as research, writing, and interviewing.
Political Scientist
Political scientists study politics and government. They may work for universities, research institutions, or government agencies. This course would be helpful for political scientists because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a political science career, such as research, writing, and teaching.
Public Policy Analyst
Public policy analysts study and analyze public policy. They may work for governments, think tanks, or private companies. This course would be helpful for public policy analysts because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a public policy analyst career, such as research, writing, and presentation.
Researcher
Researchers conduct research on a variety of topics. They may work for universities, research institutions, or government agencies. This course would be helpful for researchers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a research career, such as research design, data analysis, and writing.
Writer
Writers create written content, such as books, articles, and scripts. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as newspapers, magazines, or publishing houses. This course would be helpful for writers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a writing career, such as research, writing, and editing.
Teacher
Teachers educate students in a variety of subjects. They may work in public or private schools, or in colleges and universities. This course would be helpful for teachers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a teaching career, such as communication, lesson planning, and classroom management.
Analyst
Analysts study and analyze data to identify trends and patterns. They may work for businesses, organizations, or government agencies. This course would be helpful for analysts because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in an analyst career, such as research, writing, and presentation.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and expertise to businesses and organizations. They may work in a variety of different fields, such as management, finance, and marketing. This course would be helpful for consultants because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a consulting career, such as communication, problem-solving, and presentation.
Business Development Manager
Business development managers are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to grow a business. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as startups, small businesses, and large corporations. This course would be helpful for business development managers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a business development management career, such as communication, negotiation, and presentation.
Project Manager
Project managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and executing projects. They may work for a variety of different organizations, such as businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies. This course would be helpful for project managers because it would provide them with a strong foundation in international relations. The course would also help them to develop the skills necessary to succeed in a project management career, such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Model United Nations.
This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the United Nations, its history, structure, and role in global affairs.
Provides an in-depth analysis of the workings of the UN Security Council, a key body in the maintenance of international peace and security.
Provides an in-depth analysis of the role of the United Nations in promoting and protecting human rights around the world.
Provides insights and practical advice on negotiation skills, which are essential for students taking this course as they will be involved in simulations and debates.
Provides a detailed history of the World Bank, a key international financial institution that plays a significant role in global development.
Provides an introduction to the history, institutions, and policies of the European Union, a key regional organization that plays a significant role in global affairs.
Provides an overview of the history, structure, and work of the World Trade Organization, a key international body that regulates global trade.
Provides essential guidance on grammar, usage, and style, which are important for students taking this course as they will be required to write position papers and resolutions.
Provides a critical appraisal of the UN's human rights record, which is an important topic covered in Model United Nations conferences.
Discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the UN in the 21st century, which is an important topic in Model United Nations conferences.

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