by Alannah B.
While standard law school competitions like mooting, witness examination and negotiation are excellent practice in domestic advocacy, my favourite venue for practising applying legal theory is Model United Nations. Model UN is a practical simulation which places you in the shoes of UN delegates to debate pressing global issues, hone impromptu public speaking and negotiation skills, and draft resolution papers and amendments under international committee frameworks.
Centred on the theme ‘Origins of Global Conflict’
This month I competed in two Model UN competitions — starting with DownMUNder, co-hosted by Western Sydney University and Macquarie University. Centred on the theme ‘Origins of Global Conflict’, the conference pushed us to consider the historical and structural conditions that allow conflict to emerge and persist over time. I represented the Republic of Türkiye in the UNESCO Committee and advocated for the restitution of colonial-era artefacts through a Peru-led resolution, and put forward the Ottoman Ishak Pasha Palace for World Heritage status. I was honoured to walk away with the Best Delegate award.
Shortly after, I attended GongMUN at the University of Wollongong, which explored the theme of ‘A New World Order?’. Serving on the COPUOS (Committee for the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space) as the Republic of Italy, I focused on the intersection of technological advancement and global governance — advocating for levies to counteract the commercialisation of space alongside strategic investment in nano-satellite technology. Ultimately, I was fortunate to secure my second Best Delegate title.
Beyond committee debate, the broader conference experiences were major highlights. At DownMUNder, listening to guest speaker Professor Surya Deva (a Macquarie Law academic and UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Development) offered real-world context to our discussions. Coupled with evening social events, these conferences were incredible ways to build dynamic connections across the Australian collegiate MUN circuit.
Notes from Dr Bibiana Chan: A huge congratulations to Alannah! Best wishes for your next endeavor to represent Australia for the Global MUN Competitions.