What is a MUN and what is MainMUN?

MUN is an abbreviation for "Model United Nations", a simulation of UN-committees. The biggest simulation NMUN ("National Model United Nations") takes place annually at the UN-Head Quarters in New York. MainMUN is a similar simulation by Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University Frankfurt in cooperation with Main Conferences e.V.

What is the aim of MainMUN?

The aim of MainMUN is to let the participants gain insight into the work of the UN, international politics, and diplomacy - and of course to improve their soft skills like teamwork, rhetoric and presentation skills.

Who can participate at MainMUN?

Every senior high school or university student who is interested in international politics and willing to prepare for the simulation is welcome to participate. As the conference will be conducted in English, participants are required to have a good knowledge of the language.

Do I get a confirmation of my engagement?

Yes, every delegate will get a certificate on the last day (usually Sunday) of MainMUN which includes your name, the committee and the country you represent.

How do I apply for MainMUN?

In order to apply, please go to "Application".

The application deadline is December 15th, 2011. You will receive your country assignment via email.

What is the conference fee?

In order to cover our expenses the conference fee for each participant will be 60,- EUR. For further information and bank details please go to "Application".

Where does MainMUN take place?

MainMUN takes place at Campus Westend of Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University in Frankfurt / Main.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code for MainMUN is western business attire. Ladies can choose between suit or skirt. The male delegates are expected to wear a suit and a tie.

What do I need to bring?

If possible please bring your Notebook, USB-Stick or disc drive. Printers and printing paper will be provided.

Will I have internet access?

Yes, you will have wireless internet access. The costs are included in the conference fee.

Do I have to hand in a position paper?

Unlike to other MUNs, it is not required to hand in position papers, but you are expected to be well prepared in regard to your country's foreign policy.

How do I prepare?

Upon receiving your country and committee assignments you should start your research on your country and its distinct positions on the three issues discussed within the committee.

For basic information on your country, you may use the linklist offered here as a first step. You can find an overview on the issues to be discussed in the background guides of your committee. We also recommend the homepages of the ministries of foreign affairs of your assigned country and the voting and verbatim records on the United Nations website.

When preparing speeches, please be aware that the speaker's time may vary between 30 seconds and 5 minutes.

What are Rules of Procedure?

Like in the real United Nations, the diplomatic actions and negotiations at MUNs follow a regulative framework, called Rules of Procedure (RoP). MainMUN has set up regular RoP for all committees, including rules for the session and for the voting procedure. You will find certain modifications for single committees in each background guide. A Rules of Procedure Workshop will be offered.

What is diplomatic conduct?

Aside from above mentioned formal rules of procedure, delegates are supposed to stay in character. This includes a respectful treatment of each delegate regardless of state or position represented for all committee members except those that currently entertain tense relations (e.g. Cuba and USA).