From ruins to renewal: reviving and rethinking a fractured world
“We are witnessing a grave threat to international peace and security. Military action carries the risk of igniting a chain of events that no one can control in the most volatile region of the world.” These words of warning from UN Secretary General António Guterres at the UN Security Council meeting on 28th February following the US-Israel-Iran attacks represents the stark peril of our times. We live amidst the glaring realities of violent conflict and discord that continue to claim lives and fracture communities. Hence, it’s time for the international community to renew its commitment to solving critical issues even as the international community is increasingly struggling to deliver on its promises of security, equity, and unity for all.
Delegates at the Sixth Tsinghua International School’s Model United Nations (THISMUN VI) conference were determined to re-galvanize with stronger global resolve and address these pressing crises by finding ingenious solutions for issues of protracted conflict in the Kurdish regions, revisiting the history of solutions to conflict through the Historical Committee on the Treaty of Versailles, and also delving into emerging issues of AI and its ethical governance.
On 14th and 15th of March, delegates engaged in action-packed and critical problem-solving through impassioned discussions and negotiation of challenging questions of global legal frameworks, securitization and protection of regions and peoples, and solutions to mitigating the impact of armed conflicts on those forcibly removed from their homes.
Conference Reflections
Dr. Benita Sumita: Associate Curriculum Director
THISMUN Director:
Our school’s core theme for the year 2025-26 is ‘growth.’ THISMUN has grown and our delegates take ownership and pride in organizing and planning this flagship event. MUN is a tool of empowerment for students to hone strategic thinking, negotiation skills and developing as leaders in their own way. It is also enabling and humbling to be able to engage academically on some of the world’s biggest international challenges in the hope that our deepening understanding is a small contribution to a better tomorrow.
Tianxiao Wang THISMUN Secretary-General
Being my last THISMUN conference, THISMUN VI was the perfect ending. From beginning our background guides in my junior year, to late-night preparations weeks before the conference, to finally saying the words “We hope to see you at THISMUN VII,” the whole process was filled with anxiety, but also excitement and laughter. Watching delegates from different schools and cities gather on our campus to discuss the fractured world we live in was both humbling and inspiring.
Looking back, it wasn’t the perfect resolutions or polished speeches that defined THISMUN VI, but the people, the energy, and the shared commitment to engaging with the world critically and compassionately. Ending this journey is bittersweet, but if my MUN journey at THIS has taught me anything, it’s that meaningful change begins with conversation – and that is something I will carry forward long after this final conference.
Jacob Ren THISMUN Secretary-General
THISMUN VI was my fourth and final rendition of THISMUN, and one that I’ll remember. Organizing the conference, from customizing THISMUN gavels to preparing the conference rooms, made seeing the joy on delegate faces all the more satisfying as they engaged meaningfully and passionately to solve real world problems. As the weekend went on, I saw delegates grow out of their shells and become more confident in their abilities, something I hope you all will participate in as THISMUN VII comes around the corner.
Alan Du, Alyn Masuchun UNGA Chairs
Chairing the United Nations General Assembly in THISMUN VI was such a fascinating experience for us. Throughout the conference, we got to hear so many powerful and thoughtful discussions on one of the most complex and urgent issues of our time, how to balance the ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence with concerns about security and technological advancements. Our committee included several first-time participants. At the beginning, many delegates hesitated to raise their placards. However, as the conference progressed and delegates became more familiar with the procedure, the committee became increasingly active, and by the end, over 20 amendments were submitted, over 15 moderated caucuses were held, and nearly every delegate was actively participating.
Overall, seeing this growth and being able to help new delegates start their journey in Model United Nations was so rewarding. We hope this experience marks the beginning of many more MUN conferences for them!
Jolin Tong, Hanjing Wang UNSC Chairs
Through long sessions of moderated caucuses, resolutions, and amendments, THIS MUNVI had come to an end. Me and my chair were amazed by the consistent effort and bravery that our delegates had, and we thank the teachers, executives, and everyone who helped make this MUN conference possible. We are looking forwards to THIS MUNVII, and we hope to see you there!
Being my third time participating in THISMUN, this experience has truly become an annually anticipated tradition where each year I have had the honor to experience MUN through a different perspective. From delegate, co-chair, to now chair, THISMUN serves as a testament that reminds me of my MUN journey and growth. I’ve had so much fun this year working with the delegates and the most AMAZING cochair, and am looking forward to seeing everyone in THISMUN VII!
Anna Zheng, Andy Su Historical Committee Chairs
Chairing the Historical Committee on the Re-negotiation of the Treaty of Versailles at THISMUN VI was a really rewarding experience for us. Throughout the conference, we had the opportunity to listen to thoughtful debates about how the post-World War I world could have been shaped differently. Delegates took on the roles of historical figures and discussed difficult questions about war guilt, reparations, territorial changes, and the creation of the League of Nations.
At the beginning of the committee, some delegates were a bit hesitant to speak or raise their placards, especially those who were new to MUN. However, as the sessions progressed and everyone became more comfortable with the procedures, the discussions became much more lively and engaging. Delegates began forming blocs, proposing ideas, and actively participating in moderated and unmoderated caucuses while working together on draft resolutions.
Overall, it was really exciting to watch the committee grow more confident and collaborative over time. Being able to guide the debate and see delegates creatively rethink such an important moment in history made the experience very memorable, and we hope the conference inspired many of them to continue participating in MUN in the future.
Delegates’ Reflections
Cara Bohan Zhang Tsinghua Guanghua High School
I was having a blast at MUN these last two days! Chair and co-chair are really nice, walking us through what’s next step by step and helping us out whenever needed. Social Night was epic – everyone just play games chatted, and had fun. I even got to meet a bunch of cool, smart new friends. And seriously, all the staff and performers who worked so hard and put so much heart into it.
This experience hasn’t just sharpened my speaking and critical thinking, it really showed me how important communication and teamwork are. It’s definitely the best time in my life and starting my journey of MUN!!!
Seo Ryung Park, Dalian Yuming High School
This was my first time participating in MUN. Honestly, as a Korean student who is not yet very proficient in English or Chinese, I was really nervous before the event started. However, the teammates in my committee and the advisors were all very kind, which made these two days a truly meaningful experience. Through discussing international issues in English and exploring solutions together, I also gained a valuable opportunity to grow as a member of society. If there are similar events in the future, I will definitely participate again! I am really grateful to everyone!
Helen Jiang, Tsinghua International School
THISMUN 2026 was an amazing opportunity for me to extend my skills in a plethora of areas. MUN is an event that trains students in the fields of diplomacy, quick thinking, teamwork, and impromptu speaking. During the event, a high-pressure environment is created that pushes students to think of practical and applicable solutions to real-world issues, all whilst maintaining an air of diplomacy. Students represent their countries and must maintain the interests of their country, creating speeches in a limited amount of time to voice their positions. What makes THISMUN truly unique in its experience is that it is an event that is perfect for all levels. It is a great introductory MUN for new delegates, and an engaging experience even for more experienced delegates. Through THISMUN, I was able to meet many brilliant people. I was lucky to be able to collaborate with particularly excellent individuals that truly helped to give me the best experience. As a team, my block was able to capitalize on each person’s special skill set to maximize our productivity. Even though the conference was challenging at times, looking back, I can confidently say the challenge was worth it. Outside of an amazing educational experience, THISMUN taught me more about myself, and it helped me learn that I am resilient enough to overcome any challenge. For a truly memorable experience--from high stakes situations that push you to your limits, to meeting new friends, THISMUN truly stands as one of its kind. Discover your own unique experience at the next THISMUN!
THISMUN
Established in 2009, THISMUN is a student-led club, and one of the oldest clubs at the school.
It is dedicated to developing students' perspectives on various international affairs, stimulating their professional writing potential, and practicing their leadership skills. During the weekly club sessions, students are exposed to global challenges, such as peace and security, poverty and development, human rights, environment, public health, globalization and other topics, aiming to guide students to understand, think and discuss the issues with an international perspective.
For more than 10 years, members of THISMUN have been active in many conferences, demonstrating eloquence in debates, and leadership when working with students from other schools, and integrating and applying historical, political, and cultural knowledge they have learned at school to their speeches. Also, they demonstrate a full understanding of the various conference topics and global issues, showcasing their rich knowledge base and a solid cultural background. With these qualities, THIS students have won many awards and, more importantly, their understanding of global affairs has been deepened.
THIS nurtures, within classrooms and through student clubs like MUN, our students to become global citizens with both native Chinese and English language skills, and international mindsets. Our students are encouraged to develop diverse club activities on their own, so that they can look at the international community.
Clubs such as MUN, help students specifically learn about the operational mechanism of multilateral international organizations, such as the United Nations. They are also encouraged to devote themselves to public diplomacy and international exchange work, to stand on the international stage and actively show their Chinese cultural roots, participate in global governance, and communicate their cultural ideas. Looking to the future, these same students will be able to confidently carry out the important mission of "telling the Chinese story" within a global context and with an international vision.
