The Hampton Model United Nations (MUN) team began the debating season in impressive fashion at REIMUN, hosted by Reigate Grammar School.
MUN gives young debaters the opportunity to step into the role of global diplomats, representing countries in simulated UN committees to debate and resolve major international issues. This year, 12 Hamptonians attended the conference, representing Israel and Latvia across a range of committees and topics.
The debates tackled some of the most pressing issues facing the world today, including the use of artificial intelligence and drones in modern warfare, the impact of data centres on local communities, and vaccination policies and bodily autonomy. Our delegates approached these challenging subjects with confidence, thoughtfulness and maturity, delivering well-researched speeches and engaging constructively in committee discussions throughout the day.
Adding to Hampton’s presence at the conference were two experienced Upper Sixth pupils who took on leadership roles. Basil G co-chaired the Economic & Financial Committee, while Alex P co-chaired the Security Council. Both represented Hampton superbly, helping to guide debate and ensure the smooth running of their committees.
The team’s efforts were rewarded with two individual awards. Lower Sixth Hamptonian Thomas D received a Commended Delegate award for his contributions as a Latvian representative in the World Health Organisation, while Upper Sixth pupil Leander K-B was Highly Commended for his work as an Israeli delegate on the Economic & Financial Committee.
The conference provided an excellent start to the year for Hampton’s thriving MUN programme, with pupils once again demonstrating impressive diplomatic, analytical and public-speaking skills. The team now looks forward to the next conference of the season, where Hamptonians will continue to test themselves against some of the country’s strongest young debaters.
