MUNA – Model United Nations Assembly Saturday 15 August 2026
Posted by Judith Eadon
Fourteen teams representing 14 different countries gathered at Lyndale Secondary College in Dandenong North on Saturday 15 August for the annual Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA), where they debated three resolutions.
Two of the resolutions were provided to the teams in advance, while the third was unseen. Teams were given just 30 minutes to prepare their position on the final resolution — and, importantly, they were not permitted to use digital devices!
The first resolution focused on International Migration and Development, while the second addressed No First Placement of Weapons in Outer Space. These topics generated spirited and engaging debate throughout the morning.
The third resolution, The Effects of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies on Human Rights, proved somewhat different. Most of the young people were broadly in agreement with the resolution, resulting in less debate than the first two topics.
The Rotary Club of Nunawading sponsored Forest Hill College, who represented Russia. The students performed very well, particularly considering this was their first MUNA experience. It was certainly a steep learning curve, but a valuable and enjoyable opportunity for them to develop their debating, public speaking and diplomatic skills.
Glenys Grant and Judith Eadon joined Judy as adjudicators, which proved to be both challenging and rewarding.
Our newest member, Balaji Ponmudi, also assisted the adjudicators and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It was wonderful to have him involved and to see him embracing the opportunity to participate in such a worthwhile Rotary program.
Overall, it was an energetic and enjoyable day, providing young people with the opportunity to develop confidence, critical thinking and an understanding of international issues — all while experiencing the challenges and excitement of the United Nations in action.
