University of New England

UNE students participate in Model United Nations

BIDDEFORD, Maine - Eight University of New England political science students participated in the March 2008 National Model United Nations in New York City.

The National Model United Nations (NMUN), hosted by the National Collegiate Conference Association, is a unique opportunity for college students to participate in a simulation of the mechanics and issues that the United Nations deals with on a daily basis. 

The NMUN takes place in several locations, including Washington, DC, Beijing, China, as well as in New York City. 

The conference in New York involved more than 150 universities and colleges, from both inside the U.S. and abroad. UNE was chosen to represent the Republic of Hungary at this event. 

The eight UNE political science students were Caitlin Barry '08, Dora Clements '10, Megan Hawkes '10, Maryann Hommel '08, Ashley Katon '09, Marissa Simoes '10, Laura Thomas '08 and Lynn Walker '08.

Representing Hungary
Each student represented Hungary on a different committee, including the UN General Assembly committees, the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Commission on the Status of Women, NATO and the UN Environment Programme. 

These students, who were enrolled in Political Science 411 (Model UN), spent several months prior to the conference learning about the history of the UN, the history of Hungary, and the details of their committees' issues. 

Some of the issues they discussed at the conference included the implementation and strengthening of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), breaking the link between diamonds and armed conflict, combating the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons, the elimination of all forms of discrimination and violence against the girl child, and combating the spread of illicit drugs. 

Highlights of the trip included a briefing for our delegation from the permanent representative to the UN from the Republic of Hungary and opening and closing ceremonies at the UN building itself.

Leadership Roles
Three of UNE's students were nominated for leading roles at the model UN deliberations.

Dora Clements was selected out of 150 delegates from schools from the U.S., Canada, Europe and Asia in a competitive process (application and interview) for a leadership position in her committee (General Assembly Plenary) at the Model UN.

Ashley Katon represented UNE as a delegate from the Republic of Hungary on one of the General Assembly committees.  Ashley has also participated in other events outside UNE, such as the Days at the Statehouse and World Quest (sponsored by the World Affairs Council).  Ashley is also an officer for the People of Politics club.

Laura Thomas represented UNE as a delegate from the Republic of Hungary on the UN Economic Programme.  As part of Model UN, she has assisted in writing working papers, caucusing with other delegates, and helping get resolutions passed.

(Press release posted March 25, 2008)