Welcome to HNMUN 2011

Dear Delegates and Faculty Advisors,

It is with great excitement that I welcome you to the 57th session of Harvard National Model United Nations. This conference will take place from Thursday, February 17th to Sunday, February 20th, 2011, at the historic Park Plaza hotel in downtown Boston.

Only a decade after the signing of the Charter of the United Nations, HNMUN was founded to recreate the spirit of diplomacy that continues to define this vital world institution. Now, in the fifty-seventh year of our attempt to model the UN, we are humbled by the prospect of bringing together 3,000 college and university students from over 35 nations in order to engage in enlightening debate over the most pressing international issues. Our staff of over 180 Harvard undergraduate students commits itself for over 11 months to creating a conference that will promote instructive dialogue and cultural exchange that are key to a memorable experience. As delegates fight for the interests of the countries they represent, their skills in researching, writing, negotiating, and public speaking will be put to the test.

Our conference is defined by a true diversity in committee structure, topic selection, and substantive support features. We are thrilled to offer seven expansive General Assemblies, nine substantively rich Economic and Social Councils and Regional Bodies, a Non-Governmental Organizations program, and ten Specialized Agencies that push the boundaries of innovation. Beyond fostering a high-level of debate, these committees are buttressed by multimedia presentations, expert witnesses, and guest lectures from distinguished speakers both from within and outside of the Harvard community. However, HNMUN is also known for the cultural exchange that occurs outside of the committee room. From our Summer Opportunities and Career Fair to the Delegate Dance, we encourage delegates to use HNMUN as a platform for connecting with tomorrow’s leaders and affecting change today. Our fifty-seventh session will continue our commitment to this cause, fostering the innovative ideas necessary for meaningful collaboration.

We truly hope that you will join us in February for a fantastic Model UN experience. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact us. On behalf of the entire staff of the conference, we look forward to welcoming you in person at HNMUN 2011.

Sincerely,

Ricky J. Hanzich
Secretary-General
Harvard National Model United Nations 2011