About VIGMUN

Virginia Intergenerational Model United Nations is a day-long conference that brings together people of all generations to debate, discuss and learn from each other. In its tenth iteration this year, we hope to engage communities across Virginia, and welcome everybody - middle and high school students, students at the University of Virginia, and anybody in the Charlottesville area with an interest in international affairs and peaceful conflict resolution. In addition to offering debate and discussion, we also offer a training session on how to MUN before the conference, and included breakfast and lunch. We look forward to seeing you in February!

Frequently asked Questions

What is Model United Nations, and how is VIGMUN different? Model United Nations is a simulation exercise in which participants act as delegates of the United Nations organization—it is a common engagement of middle school, high school, and college students interested in international affairs. VIGMUN is a unique take on a typical Model UN conference. Instead of inviting one particular subset of students, we invite people from all generations to compete together, including those who have never participated before.

Who can participate in VIGMUN? Anyone! UVA students, high school students, middle students, and community members are many of the groups that frequently attend VIGMUN. Often, those already involved in Model UN bring a friend, parent, or sibling who has never participated to try it for the first time.

Do I need previous Model UN or debate experience? No. We actively seek out those who have never been involved with Model UN. Prior to the conference, general resources will be provided to familiarize delegates with parliamentary procedure, and on the day of the conference, a short training session will be held before committee begins.

How is committee run, and do I need a partner to register? VIGMUN will be run as a general assembly double delegation committee, meaning that each country will be represented by two people working together. However, you do not need a partner to register. Each delegate can request a partner, or in the spirit of VIGMUN’s intergenerational theme, you can let us assign you a partner! Based on information gathered through registration, pairings will be made to provide each participant with a partner of a different background and MUN experience. We will share contact information between partners prior to the conference date to allow for collaboration.

Non Affiliation Statement

Although this organization has members who are University of Virginia students and may have University employees associated or engaged in its activities and affairs, the organization is not a part of or an agency of the University. It is a separate and independent organization which is responsible for and manages its own activities and affairs. The University does not direct, supervise or control the organization and is not responsible for the organization's contracts, acts or omissions. IRO and VIGMUN Secretariat reserve the right to change website contents at any given time.