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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!

Read more

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!

What you'll learn

  • 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

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Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Explores global issues from a country's perspective, developing empathy and problem-solving skills
Provides a foundation for understanding the United Nations and its processes
Develops public speaking, teamwork, communication, and negotiation skills, fostering personal growth
Prepares students for Model United Nations conferences, equipping them with necessary skills
Taught by experienced Model United Nations alumni, offering real-world insights
Invites students to apply their skills in their first Model United Nations conference, providing practical experience

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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 public speaking basics
Review the basics of public speaking, such as vocal delivery, body language, and audience engagement, which will enhance your ability to participate effectively in Model UN conferences.
Browse courses on Public Speaking
Show steps
  • Read a book or article on public speaking
  • Attend a public speaking workshop or webinar
  • Practice giving a short speech in front of a mirror or to a friend
Review basics of international relations
Understand the fundamental principles of international relations, such as sovereignty, diplomacy, and conflict resolution, to provide a foundation for your engagement in Model UN simulations.
Browse courses on International Relations
Show steps
  • Read a textbook or article on international relations
  • Attend a lecture or guest speaker event on a related topic
  • Watch a documentary or movie that explores international issues
Choose and research a country
Select a country to represent in Model UN conferences, conduct thorough research on its political system, foreign policy, and current events.
Show steps
  • Consult a list of UN member states and select a country that interests you
  • Research basic facts and statistics about your chosen country
  • Read news articles and reports to understand the country's current political and international stance
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Form a study group
Establish a study or discussion group with other students to exchange insights, clarify concepts, and quiz each other, facilitating a deeper understanding of the course material.
Show steps
  • Find like-minded students who are enrolled in the same course
  • Choose a regular meeting time and place
  • Establish a schedule and topics for each meeting
  • Take turns presenting material, leading discussions, and quizzing each other
Model UN Diplomacy Practice
Simulate a small scale UN conference to practice diplomacy and UN protocol.
Browse courses on Diplomacy
Show steps
  • Form a small group of 3-4 people.
  • Each person represents a different country.
  • Choose a topic for discussion.
  • Discuss the topic from each country's perspective.
  • Practice negotiating and finding common ground.
Draft a Position Paper
Prepare a Position Paper outlining your country's position on a specific topic, demonstrating your understanding of the issue and your ability to articulate a coherent argument.
Show steps
  • Identify a specific topic or issue that you will address in the paper
  • Conduct further research on the topic and gather evidence to support your arguments
  • Write a clear and concise statement of your country's position
  • Provide evidence to support your claims and address potential counterarguments
Draft a Working Paper
Develop a Working Paper proposing a resolution or action plan on the topic of your choice, showcasing your ability to negotiate and collaborate with others.
Show steps
  • Identify a problem or issue that requires a solution
  • Research possible solutions and identify potential partners
  • Write a draft resolution or action plan
  • Circulate the draft and gather feedback from others
  • Revise and finalize the Working Paper
Practice negotiation skills
Engage in role-playing exercises or simulations to enhance your negotiation skills, such as active listening, persuasion, and compromise, essential for effective participation in Model UN conferences.
Browse courses on Communication
Show steps
  • Find a partner or group to practice with
  • Choose a topic or scenario to negotiate
  • Take turns presenting your positions and negotiating
  • Reflect on your performance and identify areas for improvement

Career center

Learners who complete Model United Nations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their country's interests abroad. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent introduction to the work of a diplomat. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations. They will also develop essential skills for diplomacy, such as public speaking, teamwork, communication, and negotiation. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will gain invaluable experience in representing their country's interests and working with other countries to solve global problems.
International Relations Analyst
International relations analysts study and analyze international relations and developments. They provide advice to governments, businesses, and other organizations on how to best navigate the complex world of international affairs. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent foundation for a career as an international relations analyst. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for analyzing international relations and developing effective policy recommendations.
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign service officers represent their country's interests abroad and work to promote peace and stability around the world. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent preparation for a career as a foreign service officer. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for diplomacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
Policy Advisor
Policy advisors develop and implement policies for governments, businesses, and other organizations. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent foundation for a career as a policy advisor. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for policy analysis, development, and implementation.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit managers plan and direct the activities of nonprofit organizations. They work to achieve the organization's mission and goals, and to make a positive impact on the community. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent preparation for a career as a nonprofit manager. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for leadership, management, and fundraising.
Journalist
Journalists gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. They play a vital role in informing the public and holding those in power accountable. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent foundation for a career as a journalist. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for research, writing, and communication.
Lawyer
Lawyers advise clients on legal matters and represent them in court. They play a vital role in upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of individuals and organizations. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent foundation for a career as a lawyer. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for legal research, analysis, and argumentation.
Teacher
Teachers educate and inspire students, helping them to reach their full potential. They play a vital role in shaping the future of our world. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent foundation for a career as a teacher. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for communication, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Business Consultant
Business consultants help businesses improve their performance and achieve their goals. They provide advice on a wide range of topics, including strategy, operations, marketing, and finance. This Model United Nations course would be an excellent foundation for a career as a business consultant. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for problem-solving, analysis, and communication.
Sales Manager
Sales managers lead and motivate sales teams to achieve sales goals. They develop and implement sales strategies, and provide training and support to their team. This Model United Nations course may be useful for a career as a sales manager. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for negotiation, persuasion, and relationship-building.
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers develop and implement marketing campaigns to promote products and services. They conduct market research, identify target markets, and create marketing materials. This Model United Nations course may be useful for a career as a marketing manager. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for communication, creativity, and problem-solving.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers oversee the recruitment, hiring, and development of employees. They also develop and implement HR policies and procedures. This Model United Nations course may be useful for a career as a human resources manager. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution.
Accountant
Accountants prepare, analyze, and interpret financial statements. They also provide advice on taxation and financial planning. This Model United Nations course may be useful for a career as an accountant. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for analysis, problem-solving, and communication.
IT Manager
IT managers oversee the planning, implementation, and maintenance of computer systems and networks. They also provide technical support to users. This Model United Nations course may be useful for a career as an IT manager. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
Healthcare Manager
Healthcare managers plan, direct, and coordinate the delivery of healthcare services. They also oversee the financial and administrative operations of healthcare organizations. This Model United Nations course may be useful for a career as a healthcare manager. Students will learn about the history, structure, and current policy frameworks of the United Nations, as well as the key issues facing the world today. By participating in simulated United Nations conferences, students will develop essential skills for leadership, management, and communication.

Reading list

We've selected ten 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.
Practical guide to negotiation at the United Nations, providing insights into the strategies and tactics used by diplomats.
Provides a comprehensive overview of international relations theory, providing a foundation for understanding the global issues discussed in the course.
Examines the challenges and opportunities facing the United Nations in the 21st century.
Provides a concise overview of human rights and the role of the United Nations in promoting and protecting them.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the major global challenges facing the world today, and offers possible solutions.
Provides a critical analysis of the UN Security Council, its composition, and its decision-making process in maintaining international peace and security.
Explores the ways in which the United Nations can be improved to make it more effective in addressing global challenges.

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