The Faculty of Philosophy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) hosted the International Model United Nations (IMUN), an international-scale United Nations simulation forum attended by high school students, university students, and graduates from various countries. The event took place over three days from January 28 to 30.
In her opening remarks, the Vice Dean for Research, Community Service, Cooperation, and Alumni of the Faculty of Philosophy, Dr. Iva Ariani, S.S., M.Hum., expressed appreciation for the presence of participants from across the globe. “Welcome to the Faculty of Philosophy. We hope that students and participants can develop a deeper understanding of how national interests can be balanced with international solidarity, while also recognizing the limits of diplomacy in navigating global power dynamics,” she said.
She also encouraged delegates to cultivate ethical and reflective leadership. “Be bold in thinking, generous in listening, and responsible in leadership. Express your ideas clearly, yet with prudence. The future of global governance depends on leaders who can combine intelligence with empathy, and ambition with wisdom,” she added.
The International Model United Nations (IMUN) is an international academic platform that brings together young people from diverse countries and backgrounds to discuss, debate, and formulate solutions to global issues through simulations of United Nations assemblies. Participants assume the roles of national delegates in various international bodies, including the UN Security Council, UNESCO, WHO, UNDP, and the UN Human Rights Council, using a practice-based learning approach and cross-cultural dialogue.
The involvement of the UGM Faculty of Philosophy as host reflects its commitment to strengthening international collaboration and building sustainable partnerships with the global community. As a faculty that emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethics, and philosophical reflection, it views IMUN as a strategic platform to sharpen argumentative reasoning, enhance sensitivity to humanitarian issues, and foster the capacity for dialogue at the international level.
In his address, the Director of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Mr. Miklos Gaspar, emphasized that the issues discussed in IMUN reflect the everyday realities faced by the United Nations. He encouraged participants to view IMUN as a starting point for meaningful engagement with issues of peace, security, and global development. “Change and impact are in your hands. IMUN is an excellent place to begin,” he said.
He further urged participants to contribute to a better world, starting from their immediate surroundings. “Do something for a better world—first in your own environment, then among the people you can influence, and ultimately for the world,” he added.