November 6–9, 2025 – The Executive Team of the Notre Dame University Model United Nations (NDU MUN) proudly represented NDU at the Istanbul International Model United Nations (IIMUN), held in collaboration with Neoterican – a distinguished global forum that unites thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from around the world.
The 13-member delegation participated in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) committee, which prompted them to engage in high-level diplomatic debates alongside delegates of multiple nationalities, including Türkiye, Palestine, India, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Laos, and others.
The committee discussed the topic “UNSC Sanctions and Their Global Impacts on Global Security in Comparison to Efficiency,” encouraging participants to analyze how international sanctions influence global peace, security, and diplomacy. Unlike traditional MUN simulations, the IIMUN Security Council was designed to mirror the authentic structure and proceedings of the real UNSC, including the use of the veto power by permanent member states and strict adherence to formal diplomatic conduct.
Throughout the sessions, delegates represented their assigned countries, defended national stances, and negotiated pragmatic and strategic resolutions. Debates ranged from real-world case studies to various aspects of the topic, including smart sanctions, humanitarian exemptions, and enforcement mechanisms.
The NDU MUN Executive Team demonstrated exceptional professionalism, diplomacy, and leadership, earning them the Best Delegation award. Several members also received individual distinctions for their outstanding performance:
- Best Delegate: Bettina Lahoud
- Outstanding Delegates: Theo Mahfoud, Myriam Khalil, and Nasr Khalil
- Honorable Mentions: Anthony Mrad and Nour Semaan
- Best Position Paper: Myriam Khalil
Coming from an engineering background, Bettina highlighted the importance of developing a complementary culture of debate, research, and adopting multi-perspective thinking. “We also learned new methods for delivering our trainings locally,” she added, which is an important aspect of her role as Head of Academic Training.
“I personally represented the country of Angola, so I had to conduct proper research and perfect my presentation skills,” shared Theo, Secretary-General for NDU MUN 2025–2026, who learned to go beyond his limits while working fast and efficiently—skills he will apply in his academic and professional life. Mahfoud also expressed his team’s gratitude toward NDU for consistently supporting them in striving for excellence and equipping them with solid knowledge in fields ranging from law to science.
By taking part in IIMUN, the NDU delegation returns with a higher level of expertise and improved management skills for future MUN events held on campus. More importantly, their outstanding performance reinforces NDU’s reputation for academic distinction on the international stage, inspiring students to change the world.