Salem Delegation Achieves Success at THIMUN in The Hague

This year’s trip to THIMUN proved both exciting and highly productive. For those unfamiliar with Model UN: it is a simulation of the United Nations in which participants act as the delegation of an assigned country within various committees. Delegates conduct research, draft resolutions and debate with other states in order to develop solutions to current global challenges. The conference is divided into several bodies addressing international issues such as human rights and ongoing armed conflicts.

After arriving in The Hague and sharing dinner together, we completed registration and final preparations before the conference work began in earnest. The first day was marked by intensive lobbying. Key topics included food waste and the promotion of trade in less economically developed countries (LEDCs), particularly landlocked states. In discussions with delegates from Armenia, India, Burundi and other countries, we merged individual clauses from our drafts into a joint resolution. The collaboration was constructive and highly focused. Representing the World Trade Organization (WTO), we successfully advocated for our resolution on trade in landlocked countries to be prioritised.

In the days that followed, we continued to engage actively in debates, submitted amendments and also worked on the topic of protecting cultural heritage. A particular highlight was that the first resolution to be debated was our own. We were able to deliver the opening speech and present our key arguments to the assembly. The motion was met with strong approval, faced only limited opposition and required very few amendments. Our carefully drafted clauses proved persuasive – and the resolution was ultimately adopted.

The third and fourth days featured further debates and resolutions before the conference concluded with an impressive closing ceremony, culminating in a musical performance and the traditional waving of flags.

The journey home was equally characterised by lively discussion and shared reflection. Despite what had been an intense and demanding few days, taking part was more than worth the effort. We formed new friendships and, above all, recognised that our consistent preparation throughout the year had paid off. In short, it was an experience we would gladly repeat at any time.