Model United Nations 2026 - International School of Monaco

Twenty-six pupils from the 4ème and 3ème International Section of Collège Charles III took on the role of diplomats at the 2026 Model United Nations Conference, held at the International School of Monaco. Representing countries as diverse as Qatar, the Russian Federation, Sierra Leone, Brazil, Algeria, and Norway, they spent two days debating some of today’s most pressing global issues.

This annual event simulates the work of the United Nations, with students assigned to committees such as the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, Human Rights, Environment and the World Health Organisation. This year’s central theme, reducing inequality (Sustainable Development Goal 10), challenged delegates to engage with complex topics including economic empowerment for women and minority groups, human trafficking and modern slavery, and environmental justice for vulnerable populations.

From the very first session, pupils were fully immersed in the experience. Speaking in front of their peers, defending national positions and negotiating with other delegates, they quickly developed confidence, adaptability and resilience. For many, it was a steep learning curve in parliamentary procedure, but also a chance to find their voice and be heard.

The opening ceremony set the tone for the conference. Guest speaker Julie Rizkallah Szmaj reminded students that while the world offers many opportunities, it is still marked by deep inequalities. She encouraged them not to be guided by “the loudest voice,” but to think critically, reflect, and take meaningful action. Her message resonated strongly as pupils stepped into debates that required both conviction and compromise.

Across the two days, delegates worked intensively within their committees before coming together for the closing General Assembly. Two resolutions were debated and successfully passed, including “Protecting the Rights of Marginalized Communities in Conflict Zones,” which received unanimous support—an achievement that reflected both collaboration and determination among the students.

The conference concluded with the announcement of awards, and a special congratulations goes to Marco Julian Cobau (3.2), who was awarded Best Delegate in the Economic and Social Council—an outstanding and well-deserved accomplishment.

Beyond the awards, however, the experience left a lasting impression on all participants. Pupils described the conference as “fun and educational,” highlighting the challenge of mastering parliamentary procedure, the excitement of engaging with other international schools, and the opportunity to deepen their understanding of global issues.

Above all, the conference allowed students not only to learn about the world, but to actively engage with it—developing the confidence, critical thinking and sense of responsibility that lie at the heart of global citizenship.

MUN 2026