1,700 Youth from 73 Countries Gather for : A Shared Commitment to Global Cooperation
Press Statement
1,700 Youth from 73 Countries Gather in New York Under the Theme: A Shared Commitment to Global Cooperation
New York – Special Coverage
With the participation of Mr. Mohammed Ali Alaw, President of the Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration (AMHRI), the Association proudly joined the 2026 World International Model United Nations (WIMUN) Conference, organized by the World Federation of United Nations Associations on February 10. The conference brought together more than 1,700 young men and women representing 73 countries from around the world, marking one of the largest multilateral youth gatherings held at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
WIMUN serves as a global platform largely led by youth and reflects the commitment of emerging generations to actively engage in multilateral spaces and shape global dialogue on peace, development, and human rights.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Felipe Paullier, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs and Head of the UN Youth Office, emphasized that the United Nations was not founded in a moment of optimism, but born out of crisis—grounded in the firm conviction that international cooperation is not a luxury, but an essential necessity for maintaining international peace and security.
He further noted that Model United Nations goes beyond being an academic simulation; it is a real space to practice diplomacy, negotiation, consensus-building, and trust—skills that the world urgently needs amid growing geopolitical challenges.
In an inspiring message to the young delegates, he stated:
“You are not only simulating diplomacy. You are practicing global citizenship.”
The Association Ma’onah for Human Rights and Immigration expressed its appreciation to the World Federation of United Nations Associations, the Permanent Missions of Jamaica and Portugal to the United Nations, and the entire student secretariat for organizing this remarkable youth-led international gathering that reflects the spirit of leadership and global responsibility among young people.
The Association affirmed that its participation in this event comes as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting youth empowerment, strengthening youth engagement in international decision-making processes, and promoting multilateral cooperation as a fundamental pillar for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.