Model United Nations

For Students in Grades 6-8

California YMCA Youth & Government has offered the Model United Nations (MUN) program to middle school students throughout the state since 2001. Middle school students or "ambassadors" come together in delegations and participate in the program with peers from across California. They are given the opportunity to discuss international issues, discover other cultures, develop life-enhancing skills, and make new friends. The three-month program includes two in-person events*, a 1-day training and the culminating 2-night Model United Nations Summit.  There, delegates represent assigned countries as ambassadors and work to solve global issues with the skills they have acquired.

*There will be one of each conference in Northern California and Southern California.

Delegations

Students participate in the program through their local delegations. Delegations are formed through YMCAs, schools, or other youth-affiliated programs. Delegations are encouraged to host weekly meetings that begin in January, and are led by an adult Advisor. Within their delegations, delegates research, debate and establish policies, treaties and resolutions. 

Ambassadors at the 24th Model United Nations will represent their selected/assigned country in the General Assembly, the Economic & Social Council, and the International Court of Justice.  Youth Ambassadors will write position papers analyzing their country’s perspective on their committee topic, write and debate resolutions to promote their country’s priorities, and most importantly, learn to cooperate with those who have opposing priorities and positions on those topics.

Some groups may hold their weekly meetings virtually while others will be in person. This will depend on the local guidelines of each delegation so be sure to check with your local YMCA regarding their in person meeting policies.

Frequently Asked Questions