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Daria Efimova
URJCmun, one of the most important United Nations simulations at a national level, has recently held the third edition of URJCmunTEEN. This event is focused on ESO and Baccalaureate students, allowing them to have a first contact with the world of international relations. URJCmunTEEN took place between February 9 and 11 at the Móstoles campus of the Rey Juan Carlos University.
The opening and closing of the event has been carried out remotely; and the opening was attended by the Secretary of State for International Cooperation, Pilar Cancela Rodríguez.
A learning space
Like the other United Nations models, URJCmunTEEN participants have the opportunity to put themselves in the role of the delegates of different committees, such as UN HABITAT (specialized in urban mobility and biodiversity protection) or ECOSOC (focused on women's economic independence and health security for children and adolescents). During the sessions, the students debate a series of proposals to, finally, vote on the different proposed resolutions. The event also has a press and staff team for those participants interested in trying out the role of journalist or entering the world of protocol and event organization.
The decision to transfer the simulation to a younger audience was made so that they can put into practice the knowledge acquired in the classroom, as well as broaden their academic preparation and learning. “We know what the United Nations model brings to university students,” explains the Secretary General of the URJCmun and student of Journalism and International Relations, Alessandra Pereira Hermida. "It seemed to us that it can also reach adolescents in a very positive way."
Fernando Alfayate Fernández is a 2nd year Bachelor of Social Sciences student. He first attended a United Nations simulation when he was 15 years old, at an internal event organized by his school. However, he highlights the great difference between the two models: "In URJCMunTEEN you really see a simulation of the United Nations and an organizational team committed to the Model." Ahead of the event, the chairs - the moderators of each committee - have had several trainings to learn about the regulations and prepare the necessary documents to ensure fair and informed debates among the delegates.
Simulation of a lot of potential
Since its first edition, URJCteenMUN has grown remarkably, reaching over 370 participants this year. Counting the press team and staff, this number is around 500 people. This shows that there is a large segment of young people interested in diplomacy, international politics, protocol and the press: you just have to give them a chance to get by.
When asked why he has decided to attend these simulations, Fernando stresses the importance of acquiring different skills outside of the classroom. “One of the most important things for any student is to complete their 'resume', and this can be done by going to these simulations. And not only because it says so on paper, but also because you acquire new skills that are very important today, such as public speaking, leadership, or teamwork.”