The URJCmun experience

Diego Miranda de Jaén, Delegation of Republic of Angola (UNICEF)

From the 5th of February to the 8th the University of Móstoles (URJC) hosted the largest United Nations representation in Spain. Representations such as these, give empowerment and a voice to those who take on the task of representing any country at any committee. Models such as these let those who are the future have a taste of what the real word is, essentially giving an opportunity to grow, experience, fail and learn in a protected but challenging environment.
This VII edition has been specially marked by a larger assistance of international delegates, establishing URJCmun as an important player in European MUN simulations. International delegates have brought fresh air to an already stimulant environment that aims to bring real, meaningful analysis and solutions to the world.
Being the first time that I have participate in a MUN and comparing it to real UN committees that I've assisted in the past, I can sincerely say that change is coming for the better, and that hard work, vocation and passion are making their way up.
 
The honorable Marcos Gómez Martínez, Secretary General of United Nations and Human rights representing the ministry of foreign affairs and cooperation, opened URJCmun.
Mr. Gómez remarked that there isn’t any country on the world able to tackle alone what he called the “three pillars of multilateral action", that is, defense of human rights, sustainable development and the security of humanity. Problems that Spain is working on and strive to help resolve. Highlighting the importance of international alliances in a time where these have become more arduous, accentuating the role of Spain in 19 different international mission, 4 of which regard the United Nations. This active implication on the prevalence of peace has led to Spanish troops putting themselves on harms ways, especially in Lebanon were Spanish troops have died on service.
During his speech Mr. Gómez called upon the passion and hard work that 4 days of committees entail, emphasizing on the importance of celebrating roll-models such as URJCmun. Mr. Gómez left such an impression that many delegates went back home dreaming of having such a meaningful career.

In addition, Alberto Martínez Cano, vice-president of UNICEF Madrid and responsible for sport development attended the UNICEF committee at URJCmun. In his speech Mr. Martínez asserted UNICEF action across 190 countries, which follows the clear mandate of the United Nations to advocate for the protection of Children's Rights, their basic needs as well as to expand their opportunities so they can reach their full potential.
Mr. Martínez praised the work the mock UNICEF committee has done during these 4 intense days trying to assess problems about the protection of children seeking asylum and the recognition of their vulnerability, as well as working towards the social inclusion of children with disabilities. “Children are children and no matter what, they need our help” Mr. Martínez said.
Mr. Martínez also talked about the action of UNICEF Spain. On a national level, UNICEF has been working with local governments to implement public policies, having already established regional frameworks in almost all the autonomic communities, now aims to implement them in a broader unified national policy. Also in regards to the importance of sports and how it helps kids cope through any struggle (getting their mind of any type of situation which they face on a day to day basis). As well as in the social education of kids (with programs such as “Gotas para Niger” fundraiser, which objective is to raise awareness of children's right to education and access to water and sanitation by promoting sport in schools).
Mr. Martínez Cano ended reassuring and reminding the deep commitment UNICEF has to do all it can to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals in partnership with Governments, Private Sector, Civil Society, NGOs and many others.
 
In summary URJCmun United Nations model has played an essential role on the development of all the delegates. Qualities such as public speaking, argumentation and debate are now  refined strongest amongst them. In my personal experience, it was an incredible experience that helped me grow, learn and understand all the necessary steps that enable our voice to be heard.

Diego Miranda