Approximately 300 students from universities in Greece and abroad are expected to participate in the 23rd Thessaloniki International Student Model United Nations (ThessISMUN), which will be held at the University of Macedonia from 12 to 19 April.
The annual conference simulates the workings of key international bodies, including the UN General Assembly, the Security Council, and the Human Rights Council, as well as institutions of regional organisations such as the Council of Europe.
During the sessions, participants will debate current global issues addressed in international forums. These include topics related to international law, geopolitics, economic and social policy, human rights protection and environmental concerns. Students represent different countries and are tasked with developing arguments, negotiating positions, and working towards consensus-based decision-making, reflecting the procedures of real-world diplomacy.
According to organisers, the aim is to familiarise participants with the functioning of international institutions while fostering dialogue, critical thinking and an understanding of the importance of international cooperation for maintaining peace.
The conference is supported by the United Nations Regional Information Centre for Western Europe (UNRIC) office in Greece and is held under the auspices of UNICEF. As part of this year's programme, a United Nations photography exhibition titled "Shared Lives, Shared Future" will be presented in Greece for the first time, having previously been shown in multiple countries. The exhibition includes, among other images, photographs from Greece and Cyprus.
At the opening ceremony, Ambassador Michail-Christos Diamessis, Director of the Greek Diplomatic Academy, will be honoured for his contribution to promoting international cooperation and Greece's global presence.
