AMUN 2012

United Netherlands and SIB Amsterdam organize debate in Amsterdam

On Friday April 13 and Saturday April 14 the first edition of the Amsterdam Model United Nations, organized by United Netherlands and SIB Amsterdam (Dutch United Nations Study Association), took place. The conference was based around the theme: "Somalia: a country held hostage" and focused on debate in two committees: the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC).

Over 50 participants debated, lobbied and negotiated their way to a comprehensive resolution on the topics at stake in their committee. The organization was thrilled to see so many students devoting their time in the weekend for such a complicated and important cause, which not only affects the Somali people and its neighboring countries, but the international community as a whole. It has shown once more that conflicts in the 21st century are not only an internal matter.

On behalf of the United Netherlands organization I would like to thank my friend Mohamed Elmi, the spokesman of the Somali community in the Netherlands, for giving a personal and thought provoking speech in which he emphasized once more how important the international community's efforts are. Furthermore, I would like to thank my dear co-organizers Eric Cuijpers and Lina Krijger of SIB Amsterdam for their endless efforts, enthusiasm, trust and support. 

Last, but certainly not least, a big thanks to the delegates and the chairs without whom this first edition wouldn't have been a success.

Please check our website to keep up to date of all the information about the various events organized by United Netherlands.

We hope to see all of you back next year!

Kind regards,

Wafa Al Ali