Welcome to the University of York branch of UNA-UK!
The United Nations Association of York aims to not only educate students about pertinent international issues, but also provides the opportunity to develop skills such as public speaking and negotiation. From inviting guest speakers and participating in campaigns to running weekly Model United Nations (MUN) training sessions, we offer a wide range of opportunities for our diverse student membership.
At training, we simulate various UN committees and analyse international issues from a variety of cultural perspectives. This prepares members to take part in a number of MUN conferences around Europe. Last year we sent over 100 members to 11 conferences, both large and small, including Munich, Cambridge, Nottingham and Riga.
We invite everyone to come along to training regardless of their experience, nationality, or degree. For many, MUN is the first time they have ever participated in any form of public speaking, so if you’ve never done anything like this before, don’t worry! Equally, experienced members are offered opportunities to hone their skills and to take on leadership positions not only at York, but also at Europe’s most prestigious conferences.
Find out more on our Facebook and you can buy membership of the society for £5 through YUSU.
FAQs
Do I need any previous experience in Model United Nations to join UNA York?
Not at all! Whether you are a complete beginner or have attended dozens of MUN conferences, anyone is welcome to join UNA York.
Do I need to study Politics or a related degree to join UNA York?
While many of our members study Politics or a related degree our society attracts students from a wide range of degrees including Biology, Economics, Electronics, Archeology, English, Law and many more. At conferences committees cater to all degrees, covering Economic, Environmental, Technological and Legal issues on a global scale.
Are there any MUN training sessions which I can attend?
We have weekly MUN training sessions to help our members prepare for conferences, or simply to discuss engaging topics of global significance. The timing, location and focus of these sessions will be communicated via email and Facebook.
How can I find out about conferences, events and training sessions held by UNA York?
You can join our mailing list through this page. You can also ‘like’ our Facebook page for regular updates.
Which delegations can I join?
You are welcome to apply for as many delegations as you like. Even though we try and send as many members as possible to conferences, places are always limited. Please also bear in mind that delegate fees, social packs, travel and accommodation are not always subsidised, so do consider your finances before applying to attend a conference.
Does UNA York provide any chairing opportunities?
Members who feel that they have sufficient experience are more than welcome to apply to chair at any MUN conference throughout the year. UNA York does not submit applications on behalf of anybody wishing to be a chair, and remember that the deadline for chairing applications is usually earlier than the deadline for delegate applications. Please ask our training officers if you would like to practice being a chair during our weekly training sessions.
How do I become a member of UNA York?
To pay for our membership fee of £5, you can visit the YUSU website. Alternatively, visit us at Fresher’s Fair or pay £5 to a member of the UNA Committee, who will add you to our list of paid members.
Do I have to be a fresher to join UNA York Society?
Any student at the University of York can join us at any stage in the academic year, attend training and join our delegations.
Does the UNA York have any social events throughout the year?
Yes, we have a variety of exciting social events, organised by our Social Secretary. Details about these will be sent to anyone on our mailing list, as well as anyone who has ‘liked’ our Facebook page. Additionally, most MUN conferences have evening socials that can be attended by all delegates who have purchased a social pack.
How much does it cost to attend an MUN conference?
Delegate fees range from approximately £10-£60, depending on the size and prestige of the conference. You will also have the option of purchasing a social pack, which cost between £10-£40. Each York delegation has a Head Delegate who is responsible for finding accommodation and travel options for the entire delegation, though you are welcome to do your own research!
What is the selection process for attending an MUN conference in a UNA York delegation?
Our delegations usually contain a mixture of experienced delegates and new members, though we do ask that you attend some of our training sessions before applying to a conference. If you know of a MUN conference you would like to attend which we do not currently advertise, please let us know.