Model United Nations (Model UN) is a hands-on civic learning program where students in grades 7-12 take on the role of a diplomat from one of 193 countries and explore solutions to international challenges. Students at Model UN aren't spectators; they discuss and debate global issues, pass resolutions, form alliances, and draft legal opinions while practicing cooperation and diplomacy.

The program starts in late fall when students join or form a delegation at their school or community organization. Delegations meet regularly to learn about the United Nations and research member countries, select a program area, practices skills, and prepare for the conference.

In early March, delegates from across the state attend an pre-conference training event called SUMMIT to help prepare for the three-day conference in early spring. Delegations work together to select their country choice and program areas. 

In late March or early April of each year, delegations across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin will come together at the Marriott Hotel in downtown Minneapolis to convene the annual Model United Nations conference! 

Register

Interested in joining or forming a Model UN delegation at your school or community organization? 

Students or adults with a connection to a school, YMCA, or other community organization can form a delegation! Check out the Active Delegations List to see if there is a delegation in your community or reach out to YouthVoice@ymcanorth.org for more information on next steps and how to get started.

General Assembly

7-12th Grade

Represent your country's interests in committees and propose solutions to international issues to the General Assembly, the main policymaking body of the United Nations.

Security Council

8-12th Grade

Investigate issues that could lead to international conflict and negotiate to resolve safety and security crises.

Borlaug Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

10-12th Grade

Research and discuss topics like the environment and sustainable development to propose solutions that keep economies strong and improve the lives of people worldwide.

Annan Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

8-9th Grade

Research and discuss topics like the environment and sustainable development to propose solutions that keep economies strong and improve the lives of people worldwide.

Human Rights Council

10-12th Grade

Learn about vulnerable groups of people and develop proposals to address past and current abuses.

Global Forum

10-12th Grade

Learn about and discuss current global issues using economics, education, the human condition, diplomacy, and security to inform and explore effective solutions.

International Court of Justice

10-12th Grade

Resolve disputes between member states, debate treaty interpretation, and make important decisions based on international law.

Media

9-12th Grade

Conduct interviews, write articles and opinion pieces, film important events, curate digital media content, and report on election results.

Conference Resource Center

9-12th Grade

Represent and advocate for various United Nations agencies, analyze resolutions to determine budget requirements, and administer elections at the conference.

 

Model United Nations 2026 Program Season

Conference:

Date: Thursday, April 9, 2026 to Saturday, April 11, 2026

Location: Minneapolis Marriott Hotel in downtown Minneapolis

SUMMIT Pre-Conference Training Event:

Date: TBD

Location: Zoom

Cost

Early Registration Windows and Program Fees: 

To be determined. 

Regular Registration Window and Program Fee: 

To be determined. 

Delegations may choose to add additional fees. Ask your delegation director for total program costs as well as how to apply for financial assistance.