Bootham Student Wins Best Delegate at Model United Nations
Bootham’s Model United Nation’s team turned in a sterling performance at a recent event hosted by Ampleforth College.
Six delegates were chosen take part in the conference. Niamh won Best Delegate at the Human Rights Council and Olivia winning an honourable mention at Disarmament Council.
The students drafted a variety of resolutions on the topics of environment in their respective committees – Olivia and Tserena for the Disarmament and International Security Committee, Finn and Finley for the Social Humanitarian and Cultural committee, and Eden and Niamh for the Human Rights Council.
Words from Joseph Butler
History teacher Joseph Butler, said: “The students were very much on the defensive, representing the nations of Iran and China who are often challenged at conference. However, they met this challenge with calm and all brought their resolutions the floor, either as the first or second proposal. They all spoke with confidence and quickly adapted to procedures.”
During the committee stage, all but one of the Bootham resolutions passed with minor amendments. This showed the strength of their resolutions and their collaboration and networking skills. The students made speeches defending their resolutions and worked with delegates in scrutinising theirs and other resolutions.
General Assembly speeches
At the General Assembly in front of everyone attending, Niamh opened the General Assembly floor. She gave a fantastic speech on her resolution Air Pollution and Poverty. Finn brought his resolution to the floor on reducing plastic production which passed with a majority. Finley challenged the Delegate of France at the floor. Olivia had an entertaining and informative back and forth between China and the USA on military contractors.
Delegates effectively worked with other nations and passed resolutions which sought to alleviate the climate crisis. It was an outstanding first conference for all. They all appeared to be seasoned delegates and were working with delegates who have been to several conferences. They spoke with confidence and quickly adapted to procedures.
Published 14 August 2024