3 Members of the Xaverian Weekly take on NMUN in New York City

This past week the Model UN society headed to New York City for the annual NMUN (National Model United Nations) conference. The conference took place at the New York Hilton in Midtown. The team arrived Saturday, April 1st and got back to Antigonish on the 7th.

The trip had highs and lows, from an expired passport to an appendicitis diagnosis; it definitely was a trip that will not be forgotten. Despite not winning any awards, StFX received an honorable mention, the team learned about global issues, brainstormed solutions, experienced city life, and made new friends from all across the globe.

Zoey Phillips, the Arts and Community Editor, represented Italy in the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) committee along with her partner Rory. The girls worked to develop resolutions for the safe handling and disposal of nuclear waste. Zoey says “it was so excellent to talk to the other delegates and everyone brought so much creativity and research into the sessions.”

Naomi Robinson, one of two News Writers, represented Italy in the Third General Assembly, which worked on resolutions for people displaced by climate change. Naomi worked with other member states to reform funding of UN organizations and NGOs (non-govermental organizations) to go towards safeguarding those displaced by climate change. Naomi says “I really loved learning the perspectives of different countries on the topic. I also really loved being in a general assembly as I got to meet people from all over the world.”

I was also at the conference representing Italy in the CCPCJ (Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice) committee. My partner Tori Cook and I worked on resolutions for decriminalizing drugs. New York was super fun and I loved getting to meet people from all around the world.

For those wanting to go to NMUN next year, consider joining either the society or joining the Model United Nations Political Science class that will also be offered next year. I know that the Model UN society can’t wait to see all the new faces and we can’t wait to get another shot at competing in NMUN in 2024.