Published November 7, 2024
Written by Genesis Velasco, Russel John Olivo, and Kyth Allan Manuel
Photos courtesy of Asia Youth International Model United Nations
BANGKOK, THAILAND – The 15th Asian Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN) successfully concluded its four-day session in Bangkok, Thailand, from November 1st to 4th, 2024, bringing together nearly 700 young delegates worldwide. The conference dealt with a range of global issues, thus creating a lively debate and collaboration among the leaders of tomorrow. AYIMUN was known to simulate the United Nations at the closest possible level to reality.
As such, participants sharpened their experience as diplomats while at it, exercised critical thinking, and brought forth novel solutions to pressing world problems. The diversity in councils and topics mirrors the multiple issues the world is facing today. Eight active councils made up the conference, each addressing pressing issues regarding the United Nations’ goals. At UNESCO, the delegates looked at “Enhancing Community Media Sustainability: Voice of Women for Gender Equality,” focusing on women’s empowerment through the media.
At UNICEF, the global coalition on child food poverty tackled the burning issue of reducing malnutrition in the world’s most vulnerable populations. Environmental sustainability was the order of the day in the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which discussed “Exploring Sustainable Water Management Practices and Water-saving Technologies.” The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) deliberated on equality in sports in “Fighting Discrimination in Sport.”
Economic and public health challenges were also high on the agenda. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) had “Fostering Economic Stability and Growth for States-Affected Conflict.” The World Health Organization had “Addressing the Impact of Air Pollution and Industrial Waste to Public Health.” Food and Agriculture Organization brought an urgent call for “Sustainable Agriculture in Climate Change.” International Criminal Police Organization, also known as INTERPOL, addressed the world’s security issues with “Eradicating Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling.”
Baguio City joined this global initiative through the youth diplomats Genesis Velasco and Russel John Olivo, who represented the University of Baguio and one of the Philippine delegates. It underlined the readiness of the city to be part of international discourse and how young leaders bring change.
AYIMUN 2024 was not just a conference but a platform for cultural exchange, critical thinking, and collaboration. As the delegates returned to their respective countries, they carried with them the insights and strategies developed during the conference, ready to champion solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. This event again demonstrated the role of youth leadership in building a sustainable and just future, thereby confirming that young minds working collectively could cross boundaries to make significant change.
