U.S. Ambassador to Nepal Alaina B. Teplitz opened the South and Central Asia university-level regional Model United Nations (MUN) conference.  Hosted by the U.S. Embassy, in partnership with the Youth Thinkers’ Society, 200 delegates from across South and Central Asia are gathered to discuss multilateral issues including countering violent extremism, ensuring freedom of expression, adapting to climate change and promoting the human rights of migrant workers.

Opening the conference, Ambassador Teplitz told the delegates, “Connecting through programs like this Model UN is an important way to create linkages among South and Central Asian countries – and the United States is proud to be sponsoring these people-to-people connections. “ Speakers at the opening ceremony included Renaud Meyer, Country Director of UNDP, and Rishi Raj Adhikari, former Ambassador to Malaysia from Nepal.

Over the next five days, the conference will simulate four UN committees: Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and Social Cultural and Humanitarian Committee (SOCHUM). 

According to a press release issued by U.S. Embassy, in addition to engaging delegates in extensive discussion of real-word issues, such as climate change and cross-border water management, the conference will also include networking events and  a ’global village” to celebrate the richness of culture and diversity of the South and Central Asia region.

Model United Nations

Model United Nations is an academic simulation of the United Nations that educates participating students about civics, effective communication and multilateral diplomacy.  During a Model UN conference, students role play as delegates from various countries serving on specific UN committees. Participants research issues and formulate negotiating positions based on the real interests and policy positions of the countries they represent.

Youth Thinkers’ Society

The Youth Thinkers’ Society (YTS) is a youth-driven non-profit, nongovernmental and non-political organization established in 2014.  The vision of YTS is to provide leadership development for youth through active involvement and engagement