jlgMUN 2024

In July 2024, the John-Lennon-Gymnasium in Berlin hosted its very first Model United Nations conference, welcoming students from across Germany and Italy. The three-day event marked the beginning of what we hope will become a lasting tradition of youth diplomacy, global engagement, and intercultural exchange.

The theme of the inaugural conference was “The Impact of Colonialism on Contemporary Society.” Delegates explored the ongoing consequences of colonial history in our modern world, discussing complex issues such as economic inequality, territorial disputes, and the global role of multinational corporations.

Participants met in three committees. The Security Council focused on the territorial conflict between Guyana and Venezuela, analyzing how historical claims and colonial legacies continue to fuel regional tensions. The Legal Committee (GA6) debated strategies to ensure economic independence in former colonies, particularly by rethinking the ownership and control of natural resources. The Junior Committee examined how to better protect workers' rights in globalized economies, especially in countries that remain economically marginalized by post-colonial structures.

The conference began with an official opening ceremony at the Federal Foreign Office, a fitting location for a diplomatic simulation of this kind. Guest speakers from the Foreign Office and the German United Nations Association inspired delegates with their insights into global policy and multilateral cooperation. After two full days of debate at the John-Lennon-Gymnasium, the conference concluded with a closing ceremony at the Nordic Embassies in Berlin.

What made jlgMUN 2024 especially memorable was the active involvement of the students. From organizing logistics to chairing debates, the entire event was shaped by young people taking responsibility and leading with purpose. It was also a moment of connection—students from different schools, cities, and countries worked together, exchanged ideas, and formed new friendships.

jlgMUN 2024 showed what is possible when students are given the space to engage with real-world issues in a meaningful way. We look back with pride and gratitude—and look forward to what’s next.