RijnMUN 2024
This year marked a significant achievement for Rijnlands Lyceum Oegstgeest, as we hosted the
school’s first-ever Model United Nations (MUN) conference, RijnMUN 2024. For those new to
MUN, it’s an educational simulation where students represent assigned countries in debates
replicating those at the United Nations. Although our school has long offered MUN as an
extracurricular activity, this conference was special as students across MYP, DP, VWO, and TTO
programs joined forces to organize this ambitious event.
We hosted over 170 students in RijnMUN 2024 including more than 110 delegates from external
schools across the Netherlands. The conference opened with speeches from the school head,
guest speaker Ms. Celine Vandenbussche from the International Criminal Court, and the student
Board of Directors. Together, they set a collaborative tone, inspiring delegates to think critically,
diplomatically and to have fun!
The organizing team comprised entirely of students, who worked tirelessly over 10 months to
bring this event to life. They managed everything from communication with other schools,
recruiting and training student staff, coordinating schedules and room reservations, to
organizing workshops for first-time MUN participants and maintaining our online presence
through the RijnMUN website, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. The result was a seamless
three-day event filled with spirited debates, intensive discussions, and memorable social
moments.
Day 1
The conference began on Friday with workshops designed especially for beginners, offering
sessions on everything from the basics of diplomacy to tips for confident public speaking. These
workshops quickly filled up, a testament to the enthusiasm of new delegates eager to dive into
their roles. In the afternoon, lobbying kicked off, with delegates negotiating passionately, testing
their diplomatic abilities, and forming alliances and new friendships that would influence
discussions throughout the weekend. The energy and excitement kept everyone engaged and
motivated
Day 2
On Saturday, the excitement really picked up. After the opening ceremony, delegates debated in
full session,with committees simulating real-world the UN, delegates tackled topics ranging from
nuclear disarmament to election security. By evening, everyone was ready for the RijnMUN
party, an event buzzing with post-debate excitement and lively dance moves!
Day 3
The final day on Sunday brought intense last-minute negotiations and emotional farewells as
delegates wrapped up resolutions. The closing ceremony celebrated their hard work, and it was
clear that each participant left inspired and equipped to take on future MUN challenges
Below are some photos of the event. Enjoy!