Benenden’s 17th annual Model United Nations was a resounding success on Monday, with delegates from across the country joining a day of vibrant and animated socio-political debate.
Approximately 370 guests from 22 visiting schools joined the Benenden MUN Team for a spirited display of current affairs discussion and diplomacy.
Following meet-and-greets with refreshments in the Jat Atrium, delegates congregated in the Centenary Hall for a welcoming address from Headmistress Rachel Bailey, the BMUN Chairs and the Secretary General, Six Two (Year 13) Clemmie, who urged delegates to put themselves forward and make themselves heard, as well as to practise active listening.
Delegates then split into eight different committees to begin the debating, showcasing a breadth and depth of knowledge, composure and reasoning that was impressive by any measure.
The Disarmament and International Security Committee responded to The Question of Preventing an Arms Race in Outer Space and The Question of Supplying Weapons to Foreign Countries in Conflict. The Economic and Financial Committee debated The Question of Achieving Net Zero in Low-Income Countries and The Question of Mitigating the Economic Impacts of the Brain Drain. Historical Security Council meanwhile tackled The Question of the USSR’s Supple of Nuclear Weapons to Cuba in the 1960s.
The Human Rights Council debated The Question of the Protection of Uyghurs in China and The Question of Freedom of Expression and Religious Beliefs in Fundamentalist States. The Security Council responded to The Question of Violence in Haiti. Special Political and Decolonisation Committee answered The Question of Settling the Kashmir Conflict and The Question of the Protection of Aid Workers in Conflict Zones.
UN Women debated the Question of the Protection of Women from Forced Marriages and The Question of Transgender Women in Competitive Sports, while the United Nations Environmental Programme responded to The Question of Eradicating the ‘Great Pacific Garbage Patch’ and The Question of Prohibiting the Production of Diesel Cars.
Across the full range of topical and vital discussion, students displayed a comprehensive level of research, passionate delivery and measured deliberation, making for an event that was informative and engaging as well as entertaining and enjoyable for all who took part or had the opportunity to listen.
At the event’s close, the Conference Chairs reflected on the outstanding debates of the day and awarded special commendations to some of the most impressive delegates.
Overall, the day was a perfect demonstration of students’ eloquence and global awareness. Many thanks to all who attended and contributed to the day’s success.