Celebrating 30 Years of Iberian Model United Nations

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Iberian Model United Nations (IMUN), where young delegates from around the world gathered to discuss global challenges and envision solutions for a better future. Guided by the theme “Voices of Tomorrow, Actions of Today,” IMUN has once again provided a platform for students to develop their understanding of diplomacy, human rights, and global cooperation. This conference was especially significant as it marked the final IMUN event for Mr. Peter Andrews, the longtime teacher leader of IMUN, who is retiring after years of dedication and leadership.

The 2024 agenda covered a spectrum of urgent and complex topics, reflecting both contemporary and historical global issues. In the General Assembly the delegates tackled modern threats, such as disinformation on social media, UN Security Council reforms, nuclear non-proliferation, and the rise of political extremism. These issues underscore the vital need for international collaboration in today’s world. In the Human Rights Commission debates centered on sensitive, human-centered issues like youth mental health, bodily autonomy, indigenous rights, and press freedom. Addressing these topics encouraged delegates to balance cultural perspectives with universal rights. In the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), students addressed economic challenges, discussing forced labor, sustainable resource management, youth employment, and Arctic preservation. These topics reflect the crucial intersection of economics and ethics in global development. In the Security Council, student delegates discussed themes from ongoing conflicts to complex peacekeeping challenges, topics included civilian protection, the situation in Haiti, and the Middle East crisis. In the Historical Security Council, the 1981 session allowed delegates to step back in time, debating the political dynamics of Poland, the Iran-Iraq tensions, and the Angolan Civil War. This historical context highlighted the long-standing nature of many conflicts and the evolving role of diplomacy.

Mr. Peter Andrews’ leadership has been instrumental to IMUN’s success and growth. His commitment to guiding students through these transformative experiences has left a lasting legacy, and he will be deeply missed by the IMUN community.

IMUN 2024 underscored the importance of engaging youth in meaningful discussions on global affairs. As we celebrate 30 years of IMUN, the passion, dedication, and insight displayed by the delegates remind us that the leaders of tomorrow are already hard at work on the issues of today.

Learn More: For more insights into the conference, including delegate experiences and reflections, visit the student blog at https://www.iberianmun.org/2024blog.