Model UN to focus on world issues

The halls of Trent University will echo with arguments about some of the world's thorniest political issues this fall at the second annual Trent International Model United Nations.

About 230 high school students, from the local area and across North America, will take part. Events take place over the weekend of Oct. 19 - 22, coinciding with the beginning of the university's reading week.

Teams of students will attend from high schools in the local area, as well as other cities around Ontario. Several American schools and even some from as far off as Mexico will be represented. One of the key organizers from Trent is Matt Griem. A fourth year student in international political economy, he intends to pursue his masters and PhD before seeking a career in politics or the international arena.

Student delegates will be drawn from every grade in high school. They are asked in advance to identify the role they wish to play, and give two alternate choices. Once here they will be assigned to the appropriate delegation. One debate, for example, will focus on the Middle East situation, with students taking roles as ambassadors from Israel, Syria, Egypt and other nations in the region.

Others will take part as members of the UN Security Council, the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the International Court of Justice.

There are no right or wrong decisions taken at the model UN. Delegates present their arguments and attempt to reach consensus on a decision, with Trent student and faculty chairs acting as judges. There are prizes for the person best representing his or her countryıs policy.

There is also a social and cultural side to the Model UN, including an international night on Saturday which features a dinner, dance and cultural show. A number of noted Canadians have been invited to participate as guest speakers, including Maurice Strong, chairman of the Earth Council.

The organizing committee is seeking volunteers to help ensure the success of the event. Students or faculty can get involved by e-mailing time@trentu.ca, or contacting the politics department. The Web site is www.trentmodelun.com.

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