On October 17th, 2024, hundreds of Connecticut high school students traveled to the United Nations, located in New York City, in order to tour the UN and meet with delegates of the country they are representing this year. “Today is an opportunity for students to experience diplomacy in action.” The World Affairs Council of CT said about the experience in their summary of the event. Coginchaug Model UN was able to do just that.
After traveling to NYC by train, the group of Coginchaug students walked to the United Nations Headquarters, where before they started the tour, they were able to view statues and artwork donated to the institution. Among these was the Non-Violence sculpture, created by Swedish artist Carl Fredrik Reuterswärd, pictured here. They were also able to witness real delegates working, speaking and collaborating, just as our delegates do during conferences.
During the tour, the students viewed the halls and rooms of the United Nations, including the Security Council Chamber and the General Assembly Chamber. They were taught about the history of the United Nations, its purpose, and past and present missions. The information ranged from how the UN was created after World War 2, to the artwork within each chamber, to where Peacekeepers are deployed throughout the world.
Unfortunately, Coginchaug Model UN was unable to meet with India’s delegates, so after the guided tour, they instead attended a briefing on Preventing the Re-Emergence of Chemical Weapons. The speaker went over the subject and general overview, then the floor was opened to students to ask questions and further their understanding. Along with another school, Coginchaug asked several great questions, making the discussion thorough and productive.
Afterwards, they made their way back to Grand Central Station, where they took in the intricate constellations painted across the ceiling, and enjoyed some time together before making their back to CT. Overall, this year’s trip to the United Nations was educational and fun, and Coginchaug Model UN is sure to benefit from the experience.
