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Campus - 14.04.2026 - 15:00 

HSG students participated in the “National Model United Nations” conference in New York

Have you ever wondered what diplomats actually do? Or what really happens behind the walls of the United Nations? Nineteen students from the University of St.Gallen set out to explore exactly these questions – not just in theory, but in practice.
HSG-Studierende nehmen am «National Model United Nations» in New York teil

As part of one of the world’s largest UN simulations, the National Model United Nations (NMUN) in New York, the HSG delegation took on the role of Zambia and represented its position in international negotiations. Since September, the students had been preparing intensively for the conference together with Prof. Claudia Brühwiler and Head Delegate Merle Reinelt. This included not only an in-depth analysis of Zambia’s political context, but also training in debate, as well as drafting position papers and resolutions.

Simulation of complex United Nations processes

On site, the conference offered the opportunity to put theory into practice: delegates actively participated in discussions, contributed to working papers and draft resolutions, and further developed their skills in rhetoric and negotiation. Patricia Blum noted, «Attending NMUN taught me to engage with new people confidently, present my ideas on an international stage, and experience firsthand how the complex machinery of the United Nations operates.»

At the same time, the exchange with students from around the world provided new perspectives and fostered international collaboration. «What I found most interesting was learning how to navigate different perspectives and work towards common solutions,” Valeria Jenni reflected.

The experience was rounded off by the stay in New York and a visit to the United Nations headquarters, making the connection between academic studies and real-world practice especially tangible. «It was an intense and demanding week, but definitely one of the best courses I have taken at HSG», concluded Lennart Herlyn.

 

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