ODU Student Simulation to Mark Annual United Nations Day

October 10, 2013

The Old Dominion University Model United Nations Society will observe the international peacekeeping organization's 68th anniversary with an event where students have an opportunity to represent member U.N. nations in simulated discussions about the war in Syria and efforts to combat human trafficking.

ODU will celebrate United Nations Day from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, in the Hampton/Newport News Room of Webb Center. The annual event typically features more than 100 ODU undergraduates, graduate students, visiting speakers and dignitaries.

Two topics will be discussed at this year's simulation: "International Debate to End War in Syria" and "Strengthening Coordination of Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking." The program is designed to introduce students to the procedures and methods of the United Nations General Assembly.

All ODU students are welcome to participate. To register, students should send their top three country choices to ODU U.N. Day Secretary-General Sean McGuffin at smcgu007@odu.edu. There is no fee to register and academic excuse letters will be provided for those who take part.

The term "United Nations" was first coined by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II, when representatives of 26 nations pledged to continue fighting the Axis powers. On Oct. 24, 1945, the United Nations officially came into existence with a charter adopted by 51 member states.

Today, the U.N. includes 193 countries and is currently engaged in 16 operations on four continents involving a force of 120,000 peacekeepers. To learn more about the organization's objectives and programs, visit the United Nations website.

ODU'S Model United Nations Society was established in 1977 to promote further understanding of the United Nations, international issues and the global community. The society's mission is to promote global, multicultural education and leadership experience through experiential learning, while stressing participation in simulation conferences and courses.

The society currently has a membership of about 50 students, with majors ranging from political science and international relations to chemistry and military science.

For more information about the ODU organization, visit the Model U.N. website.