Explore how the Delhi International MUN contributes to the expansion of Model United Nations Conferences across India:
‘Model United Nations’ - sounds familiar? The educational simulation of the United Nations is a marvellous opportunity for students to learn about diplomacy, international relations and decision-making. An MUN conference typically helps hone and develop many attributes within their participants such as public speaking skills, self confidence, debating and writing ability. In its essence, delegates represent a particular portfolio or a country in simulated conventional committees. Furthermore, in special committees, participants sometimes also represent organisations or heads of states to discuss and deliberate upon pertinent global issues.
Model UN began as Model League of Nations, as the UN was yet to be formed. The first MUN was held 4 years after the formation of the United Nations, from the 11th – 13th February in 1949. This was the first of many MUNs that were to follow for years to come. The rate of expansion was exponential reaching countries such as the UK, Netherlands, Peru, Singapore and India. The largest MUN is currently held in The Hague, Netherlands. It is called the ‘The Hague International MUN’ (THIMUN), and it includes more than 3500 participants from 100 countries.
In India, one of the world’s up-and-coming superpowers, MUNs have taken the country by storm, with about 75% of private schools organising their own conferences. MUNs began in India in 1996 in Mumbai. Ever since, their popularity hit its peak when major international conferences emerged in the country such as the Harvard MUN (HMUN) and the Delhi International MUN (DIMUN) hosted by The Dais.
The Delhi International MUN, pioneered in 2016, is now playing a pivotal role in setting an example for MUNs in India for years to come. It is based in the heart of the country, and draws hundreds of students from all over the world to discuss a multitude of global issues in a melting pot of a city. Furthermore, since its inception, the DIMUN has always been a key part to upholding the legacy of MUNs in India as it appeals to a diverse array of students, evident from the 800 delegates that attended the first conference.
Moreover, DIMUN allows participants to choose from 10 different special committees giving them a range of choices. To add on, as DIMUN is partnered with a huge number of organisations and sponsors, it allows them to host a well arranged, organised and well-executed conference. Consequently in 2018, the Delhi International Model United Nations structurally redefined their logistics and hosted a conference at zero delegation fee. “The motive behind this was to encourage students from strenuous financial backgrounds to learn and network at our platform,” said Parth Gaikwad, President of DIMUN.
Lastly, DIMUN has received support from politicians in India such as the Hon’ble Minister of Rural and Urban Development; Shree Narendra Singh Tomar, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways of India; Shree Nitin Gadkari and Former Under Secretary General of the United Nations; Dr Shashi Tharoor.
Ultimately, MUNs are continuing to grow and educate participants across the world, as they have an unmatched potential for providing insight into the perspectives of the youth, something we, here at The Youth’s Lens have consistently strived for. With DIMUN’19 approaching, we cannot wait to see what innovative ideas emerge from the various committees showcased at the event.
Written By: Aarush Kesar
Edited By: Nandini Nalam
