Model UN Excursions | French & Japanese Language
French Model UN Conference
On Friday, July 26th, we had the privilege of attending our first French Model UN. For this event, we were tasked with researching the goals and attitudes of our country - Costa Rica - towards critical climate issues, and presenting and debating our findings and viewpoints in the Model UN, alongside students from various schools across Victoria. The twist - everything had to be spoken in French! At first, our group found it quite intimidating, to say the least. For most of us, this was a completely new experience - not only did we have to speak in front of a hundred other students, but do all of it in formal French!
The day began with the presentation of each country’s perspective and goals to the assembly. Despite butterflies and shaking hands, Costa Rica’s presentation went quite well. After the initial nerves had dissipated, we were filled with a renewed sense of confidence, and even excitement for the day ahead. Rightly so, as then came the moderated caucus, unanimously our favourite part of the day!
We could call out other counties, question them, and voice our own ideas. We were even able to form alliances and gain support for the amendments we wished to make. It turns out Costa Rica has over 98% renewable energy and is a world leader in reforestation, making it an aspirational country in many aspects. It also meant that our arguments were not controversial and we were safe from the glowering eyes of other groups who instead directed their mistrust towards countries like the USA and China. Towards the end of the day, we voted on the amendments, with Costa Rica’s passing! It was an enriching experience that forced us to step outside of our comfort zone and practise our public speaking skills in French. We were also able to meet many new people as well as strengthen friendships with our classmates.
Kaia McN (11A) & Tanveerjaha R (12F)
Japanese Model UN Conference
On Tuesday, July 23rd, Year 11 and 12 students studying Japanese had the opportunity to partake in the annual 2024 Japanese Model UN Conference - a day full of critical thinking, spontaneity and of course emerging themselves in 日本語. In preparation, we had spent hours planning, collaborating and researching each of our respective country’s stance, in response to this year’s topic of “Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development.”
The day began in a formal manner with each country having the opportunity to present their stance of who they are, what they support and what they are against in relation to the implementation of AI. However, as the day continued, countries began to form, break or even mend relations, all for the sake of the best outcome for our respective countries and the United Nations as a whole. Through this event, we were not only able to just practise and learn more Japanese vocab, but also able to apply our skills in simulated practical settings. Whether it was public speaking in front of all the other delegates, following official UN protocols by addressing UN officials and fellow delegates respectfully or spontaneously planning supportive arguments or rebuttals, we were all able to engage and participate meaningfully.
Even though it was a very different experience to the usual routine of Japanese classes and having to listen, speak and understand everything in Japanese for an entire day wasn’t the easiest, it was definitely a special experience that helped everyone to reflect on the values we deem important globally. The day ended with some countries elated about the changes accepted during the final resolution vote, however some countries still left fighting for change over the clauses that were rejected or modified.
Overall, the Japanese Model UN was an unforgettable experience that gave everyone the opportunity to gain new perspectives on important issues present today, while collaborating with our peers and extending ourselves through Japanese.
Sarah F (12E)
With Mac.Rob participating in the annual Japanese Model United Nations for the second year in a row, we were more prepared than ever before. The Resolution topic of ‘Artificial Intelligence’ was highly relevant to current affairs, posing an interesting challenge for delegates to engage with. We had six teams participate this time around, compared to last year’s three, and the enthusiasm was positively simmering in the lead up to the event.
Whether it be VCE Unit 1/2, VCE Unit 3/4, or IB Year 2 students, Mac.Rob delegates worked tirelessly behind the scenes to research, prepare and practice. Attending preparation workshops with Sawaki Sensei, and even participating in a mock simulation at lunchtime weeks before the actual event, Mac.Rob was more than ready to knock the event out of the park.
Every Mac.Rob delegate gave it their all at the event—whether that be bravely speaking in front of a hundred other delegates, delivering their position statement, or negotiating during caucus time. There were allegiances forged, but they were just as easily broken: diplomacy turned into heated debate.
Standout moments included the Mac.Rob delegates of Mexico eloquently debunking Melbourne Grammar’s Estonia, slamming Estonia’s controversial and sexist comments about female participation in the AI workforce. Another Mac.Rob victory came in the form of an amendment by India being passed unanimously—representing great diplomacy on behalf of the Indian delegation.
Reflecting on the day, we can say for certain that the Japanese Model United Nations provided Mac.Rob participants a platform to exercise their voices, demonstrate critical-thinking abilities, and extend their language skills. For VCE 3/4 and IB Year 2 students, it was the last opportunity to participate in such an event:
“While it is unfortunate that this will be my final opportunity to participate in MUN, it was an eye-opening experience that showcased how the level of Japanese we learn in VCE can be applied in areas outside of our class’s daily activities. MUN was a great opportunity that allowed us to grow while learning the Japanese language, as well as promoting interschool relationships. It was great to see people going beyond their limits in an environment that understood the struggle, but also celebrated successful attempts!” - Kaavya R (12E), Delegate of Ireland
The final vote was tense: many were disappointed by the edited Resolution, while others were satisfied with the outcome. The Secretary-General’s gavel came down with a resounding thud… 決議案は可決されました! The Resolution had passed!
Harshitha M (12A), Angela Z (12A), Eunice Y (12E) and Melody C (12E)