The 4th edition of the Everest International Model United Nations (MUN) kicked off in Kathmandu on Monday.

The event, organised by the US Embassy in partnership with the Youth Thinker’s Society, has brought together 200 university-level delegates from 15 South and Central Asian countries. It runs until July 14.

Inaugurating the event, Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Nepal Michael C Gonzales said the MUN was a perfect platform to understand international politics and diplomacy. “The world needs leaders and delegates and we need young people who can become strong and passionate delegates,” said Gonzales.

Over the five days, the delegates will be discussing a wide range of international issues, including countering youth radicalisation, promoting human rights of migrant workers, championing nuclear non-proliferation.

Tohiri Dilshod has come from of Tajikistan to present his innovative idea on water security issue and problems of lack of fresh water around the globe.

“I see this as an opportunity to put forward my idea on water related issues from the perspective of Mexico and Tajikistan,” said Dilshod.

Rajeev Khadka, 24, of Nepal sees this as a platform where he could learn learning leadership quality. “I think I can connect and collaborate with others and develop my leadership potentials,” he said.

The event will also provide them an opportunity to get familiar with the operations of UN conference and other agencies. The conference will simulate four UN committees–Economic and Financial Affairs Council (Ecofin), United Nations Environment Programme (Unep), United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

Speaking on the occasion, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Bharat Raj Poudyal praised the issues selection for discussion during the conferences.

“Issues that are to be discussed here are exactly the issues that UN members are grappling with,” said Poudyal.   

Participants will role play as delegates representing different countries on specific UN committees. The platform also aims to enhance participants understanding of global issues from learning from delegates representing various countries.