ISN Students Shine at Barcelona MUN 2024
Michelle Van Buuren
ISN students recently returned from a highly rewarding experience at the Barcelona Model United Nations (BCNMUN 2024), held from November 28th to 30th. Hosted by the American School of Barcelona, this event brought together high school students from across the globe to engage in diplomatic simulations that encouraged debate, collaboration, and creative problem-solving on some of the world’s most pressing issues.
Students participated in a range of committees, including the General Assembly (GA), United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Security Council (SC), UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the Anti-Nuclear Proliferation and Arms Control Agency (ANPACA).
Our ISN delegates demonstrated incredible dedication and skill throughout the three-day conference, gaining invaluable experience in research, critical thinking, and diplomacy.
Yanis, a Grade 10 student, reflected on the effort that went into preparing for the event:
"Participating in MUN in Barcelona was both challenging and rewarding. It took a lot of hard work—researching, drafting, and refining my resolution—but seeing it accepted made all the effort worthwhile. I’m incredibly grateful to Mr. Galvis and Mrs. Melinte for making this unforgettable experience possible and supporting us every step of the way."
Students spent a lot of time preparing, honing their debating and negotiation skills, researching complex topics, and drafting resolutions that would contribute to finding peaceful solutions to global issues. Finn, in Grade 11, spoke about the depth of the experience:
"Over 3 days, we all delved into the world of politics and peace as delegates. I enjoyed being able to actively respond and collaborate with other participants in finding possible and pacifist solutions to global issues. I am truly fond of the MUN experience and affirm how beneficial it can be to all: whether you enjoy public speaking, collaboration, critical thinking or research, Model United Nations has got most of it. Thank you very much to all the MUN coordinators, BCNMUN and students for making this a nurturing experience."
For many, like Diego, the conference was an eye-opening experience that ignited a passion for the future:
"Participating in BC MUN was an incredibly joyful experience, as it gave me hope and excitement for the progress of our future."
Model United Nations allows students to develop essential life skills such as public speaking, negotiation, research, teamwork, and leadership. It fosters self-confidence and encourages ethical decision-making as students address real-world challenges. Victoria, another Grade 11 student, shared her reflections:
"Model United Nations engaged me with global issues, challenged me to plan and adapt, and helped me develop skills in public speaking, teamwork, and leadership. It also developed my self-awareness and confidence, truly highlighting the benefits of collaboration, and encouraged ethical decision-making while addressing real-world challenges. My favourite part was getting to meet so many new people and understanding their perspectives. I am really grateful to be fortunate enough to experience this."
We are incredibly proud of our students' participation in BCNMUN 2024, where they represented ISN with passion, professionalism, and a commitment to global change. These experiences are an integral part of ISN’s mission to develop critical thinkers and compassionate leaders who will contribute to building a better world. Well done to all our delegates, and we look forward to seeing how they continue to apply these skills in the future!