Schiller Students Excel at Universidad Europea Model United Nations 2026

Students from the BA in International Relations and Diplomacy at Schiller International University recently demonstrated their academic excellence and diplomatic skills at Universidad Europea Model United Nations 2026 (EUMUN).

Bringing together participants from universities across Spain and beyond, the conference offered a dynamic platform for students to engage with real-world global challenges through high-level simulations, debates, and negotiations.

Representing the BA in International Relations and Diplomacy

A delegation of 10 undergraduate Schiller Madrid campus students, all members of the Debate Club, participated in the conference. The group included:

• Liia Abitova
• Narek Arshakyan
• Muras Baiyshev
• Valentina Christie
• Manuel González
• Vera Kadrije
• Javier Merinero
• Adriana Mikisova
• Oleksandra Navrodska
• Pilar Heredia

Throughout the event, students assumed the roles of country representatives across various committees, applying the theoretical knowledge gained in the IRD program to complex, real-world scenarios. Their participation highlights the program’s strong focus on practical learning, global awareness, and diplomatic engagement, preparing students for careers in international relations, policy, and global governance.

Tackling Global Challenges Through Simulation

During the three-day conference at Universidad Europea, students engaged in intensive simulations designed to mirror real United Nations processes. Key topics included:

• Military presence in the Arctic and its geopolitical implications (DISEC Committee)
• The weaponization of water in the Tigris-Euphrates basin (UN Security Council)

These discussions required students to navigate complex issues such as international security, climate challenges, and geopolitical tensions. Participants took part in:

• Formal debates and moderated caucuses
• Negotiations between delegations
• Drafting working papers and resolutions
• Building consensus in highly competitive environments

In the DISEC committee, Schiller students played a key role in sponsoring and successfully passing a resolution, despite strong opposition from major delegations representing the United States, China, and Russia.

Outstanding Results and Recognition for Schiller Students

Adding to Schiller students’ achievements, the delegation achieved remarkable success, earning multiple distinctions:

• Best Delegation Award
• Best Delegate (DISEC) – Manuel González
• Honourable Mention (Security Council) – Muras Baiyshev

These achievements reflect the academic strength of Schiller students and their ability to apply diplomatic strategy in high-pressure, international settings.

A Transformative Learning Experience

The conference provided a valuable opportunity for students to collaborate with peers from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Manuel González, president of the Debate Club in Madrid, shared:

“The conference was a great opportunity for us to develop research, negotiation, public speaking, and persuasive argumentation skills practiced in the Debate Club. One of the most challenging aspects was navigating the geopolitical tensions within the committee, especially when the ‘big three’ opposed the resolution.”

Students also had the opportunity to attend keynote speeches from international diplomats, including ambassadors from Panama and Serbia, further enriching their understanding of global diplomacy.

Why Model United Nations Matters for IRD Students

Participation in Model United Nations conferences is a key extension of the BA in International Relations and Diplomacy experience. These simulations allow students to:

• Engage directly with real-world international issues
• Strengthen critical soft skills such as negotiation and public speaking
• Gain hands-on experience in diplomacy and multilateral decision-making
• Build confidence in high-level academic and professional environments

Looking Ahead: Expanding Opportunities for Student Engagement

This year’s UN simulation student experience marks an important milestone as Schiller’s first official delegation to EUMUN—and one that resulted in outstanding success. As student interest continues to grow, initiatives like Model United Nations represent a valuable opportunity to further enhance student engagement, professional development, and international exposure within the IRD program.

Through experiences like these, Schiller International University continues to empower students to become the next generation of globally minded leaders, ready to navigate the complexities of international diplomacy.

From Bachelor’s to Master’s: A Complete Path in International Relations and Diplomacy

The BA in International Relations and Diplomacy at Schiller International University is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in global politics, international law, economics, and diplomatic strategy, combined with a practical, hands-on approach to learning.

Schiller also offers a Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy, delivered in partnership with United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). This unique collaboration provides students with direct insight into the workings of the United Nations system, combining academic excellence with practical training from one of the world’s leading international institutions.

Together, these programs create a clear academic pathway—from undergraduate to postgraduate level—equipping students with the knowledge, experience, and global perspective needed to succeed in the field of international relations.