This is a PDF of the cover of the 2010 MUNITY, Volume 18, Issue 1

1. MUNITY XLII The Hague International Model United Nations
Monday, January 25, 2010 www.munity-online.net Volume 18, Issue 1
By: Victoria Uwemedimo
Making the World a Better Place
solely the
A murmur of thrumming government itself,
anticipation pervades the World instead ensuring
Forum Theatre as hundreds of that “citizens,
delegates wait for THIMUN leaders and public
XLII to officially commence, institutions relate to
their impatience palpable and each other in order
casting a veneer of solemn to make change
tension over the conference happen”. This, of
room. Can Soylu, President of course, relates
the General Assembly, hushes directly to our own
the room with the words “Could conference and the
the house please come to order!” role we play in the
and a few authoritative taps of colossal mechanism
his mallet. After one minute of that is THIMUN: we
meditative silenc e to remember must “learn how to
those who have died through communicate [our] Eric Lawton
natural disasters or man-made ideas to [our] peers “ The future is in your hands,” said our distinguished keynote speaker.
causes, a resounding scatter and thus prepare to be concluding element of solidarity answered: “Problems can be
of applause breaks and Mr. communicative world citizens”. is brought to the atmosphere. seen as big at THIMUN; but
Frits Huffnagel, the Elderman Perhaps the key note of Ms. Simultaneously, a sense of every problem has a solution.”
of International Affairs of the Dubock’s inspiring speech hope and determination can be The Secretary G e n e r a l ,
Municipality of The Hague was the incredibly relevant detected as we realised that we Alessandro Guglielmi, made
spoke to the delegates about correlation she drew between can make a change, we can make the final speech emphasising the
his cosmopolitan city. Ms. THIMUN and the recent a difference. massive impact that THIMUN
Linda Dubock, Chair of the disaster in Haiti. Our pride and A passionate speech delivered makes and the magic that lies
THIMUN Board of Directors, near sense-self of importance by the keynote speaker and therein. He managed to embody
then took her place behind the gradually swelling in our THIMUN patron, Her Royal THIMUN in a few simple lines:
microphone. She once again chests throughout the speech Princess, Princess Mabel von “But THIMUN is more than
sets into motion the wheel of was brought crashing down as Oranje-Nassau, compelled us a mere conference. It is a place
dynamism which spins the Ms. Dubock recalled through to admire her perspicacity and and time where people excel, it
straw of young, raw ingenious repressed tears the “devastation undying quest to make the world is a place and time where people
minds into the gold that is that and heartbreaking images” “a better place”. The princess experience great new things, it is
final resolution at the end of the of the Haitian earthquake. underlined just how vital good a place and time where memories
week. Suddenly, we became aware governance is in the successful are created”. Thus the opening
Ms. Dubock highlighted the of our extremely privileged running and maintenance of a ceremony ended on a highly
significance of this year’s topic, situations and the way in which country, with the affirmation positive note which reminded
Good Governance, which in we take for granted what some “the problems might be bad and us all that we symbolise the
her opinion is “mostly about the have never had. Nonetheless, deep-rooted, but they can be youth of the world, we speak for
implementation of human rights as Ms. Dubock announces that changed”. After the ceremony, those who do not have a voice,
and the enforcement of human the proceeds of the collection MUNITY reporter Patricia and, through “partnership and
rights standards”. She also for charity this year will be Kim asked Princess Mabel if she teamwork”, we can achieve
stressed that Good Governance donated to the victims of had any advice for THIMUN something brilliant.
does not involve nor require the Haitian catastrophe, a delegates, to which the Princess
IN THIS ISSUE:
The Art of Lobbying: Preparations for THIMUN : The Hague Travel Guide:
How to lobby step-by-step! Selection process and prepa- A quick guide to glamorous
Get your ideas heard and ration that leads to a suc- places to eat, socialize and
your resolutions passed...page cessful THIMUN conference party....page 14
10, 11 ...page 12

2. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 2
Munity XLII
Staff
Stabilizing the Core
By: Divya Sharan
2E Van Blankenburgstraat 119 “Obama-mania,” as it was government institutions – own lifestyles and luxuries
2517HC Den Haag, The Netherlands termed, is quickly sweeping which is exactly what “Good are not being jeopardized.
www.munity-online.net
across the globe, reaching Governance” refers to. “However, in the face of
all those who want to see an It is the lack of this sense economic and environmental
Editors-in-Chief end to the problems facing of “Good Governance” in crises, that complacency just
Kuan Yu Shen the world today. Recent the world that inadvertently isn’t possible anymore,” Mr.
Andria Varnavides Nobel Prize winner, Barack makes it the root cause Buscher adds.
Obama, has become a highly of many of the world’s It is becoming more
Text-Editors influential household name; problems. Paul Wolfowitz, and more evident that
Mari-Ana Narbon simply put, what he says, goes. former President of the there is a need to look in
Jessia Gao On his first trip to Africa World Bank, said that good to the transparency and
Alejandra Paton as President of the United governance “is essentially the accountability of individual
States, Obama addressed one combination of transparent governments. In fact, there
Reporters of the most pressing, yet often and accountable institutions, is nothing the rest of the
Divya Sharan overlooked issues world can do to solve
Victoria Uwemedimo
Patricia Kim
in the world – the “[Good governance] this problem. Instead,
problem of “Good it is up to individual
Bavo Stevens
Aditya Naganath
Governance.” is the ingredient governments to take
“ [ G o o d responsibility for their
Liske Bruinsma
Vera BLoemen
governance] is the which has been actions and to uphold
ingredient which the United Nations
Genevieve Snider
Tugce Koseoglu
has been missing in missing in far too Charter. “Good
far too many places, Governance” is the
for far too long.” It many places, for far theme of THIMUN
Layout remains to be seen 2010. Amongst all
SeoHyun Sarah Bae how Obama’s words too long. “ the problems facing
Spencer Jackson impact the Africans, the world, this was
Jennifer Sun but this year’s singled out to be one
Mara Wendebourg THIMUN Administrators strong skills and competence, of the most important issues
have decided to take up the and a fundamental that needed to be solved,
Photographers challenge and explore what willingness to do the right and in fact, it is. If nations
Eric Lawton the world would be like thing. Those are the things can achieve the standards of
Sophia Palenberg with good governance. The that enable a government to “Good Governance,” almost
Karina Dukalska selection of this theme came deliver services to its people half the world’s problems
about when “during the mid- efficiently.” will become less daunting or
Intern
evaluation of the Millennium Furthermore, Mr. Jeff simply disappear.
Brianna Felegi
Development Goals Buscher, a THIMUN That brings us to THIMUN
(MDGs), experts proved Advisory Board Member, XLII. Delegates will get
Adviser that a part of the failure of explains that “Good to interact and debate on
Mr. Andrew Newman some of the goals were due to governance is more critical issues pertaining to this
Bad Governance,” says Mr. today than ever before, both in idea of good governance. In
Alain Meidinger, a member the developing and developed particular, the focus will be
of the Board of Directors. In worlds.” As the developing on the Special Conference
Opinions expressed by MU- addition, Her Royal Highness world realizes the sheer delegates to produce first-
NITY are not necessarily Princess Mabel van Oranje quality and quantity of wealth class resolutions that aim to
those of the newspaper, The brought up this issue in her and resources present in their cover topics ranging from
Hague International Model book, ‘In vrijheid blijven ge nations, mismanagement and corruption to increased
United Nations, its affillates, loven’ (Continue to believe corruption are becoming national dialogue. Delegates
sponsors, or participants, but in freedom). In this book, she more and more widespread, should keep in mind the
rather those of the individual addresses the need for certain driving these nations deeper relevance of good governance
writers formed from their freedoms and the need to into poverty than they should to almost every major world
obersation of the conference defend democracy across be. Thus, good governance problem when they engage
with research. Commentary the globe. Furthermore, is necessary for them to lift in fruitful debates in their
and response referring to the Mr. Meidinger states that themselves out of poverty. At respective committees in
articles are welcomed. MU- this book mentioned the the same time, people in the order to understand and
NITY reserves the right to defense of democracy against developed world continue create solutions for the core
withold or edit submissions. dictatorship, corruption, to turn a blind eye to such issues of “Good Governance”.
and lack of transparency in poor governance since their

3. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
PAGE 3
Flags Fly for the Honorable Ambassadors
By: Vera Bloemen and Genna Snider
They are hardworking.
They are studious ,intelligent
and tactful. They represent
their home countries and
are essential to international
politics. Who are these people?
They are the Ambassadors,
the representatives of their
countries. When asked, Peter
Goosen, the Ambassador of
South Africa, expressed that
“Ambassadors are in place to
represent countries in their
interests and to improve
ties with other countries.”
Likewise, Marciano Dasilva,
the Ambassador of Timor,
stated that Ambassadors are
appointed to “promote the
country and bring in investors, Eric Lawton
work for the people and
represent the people as best as Ambassadors thought that and answers questions in the start the young generation on
possible, and work for peace the theme chosen is “very international community as the political track.
in the country and the world”. good”, “interesting” and
“definitely should be solved”.
Even though
“...the theme cho- For all the
delegates out
researching for
your country is sen is ‘very good,’ there,
simulated
this
UN
often difficult, experience is
all ambassadors
agree that the
‘interesting,’ and closer to reality,
as many of the
students
representing
are
‘definitely should be issues faced in
this conference
solved.’ “
their countries are faced on a
well and to their daily basis. The
full potential. ambassadors of the
countries present
Unquestionably, well. Marciano DaSilva, from at THIMUN come constantly
THIMUN brings Timor, agreed and said that it is across the repercussions and
the world closer an appropriate event for young outcomes of the issues being
Eric Lawton to a brighter people and it is the best way to discussed here.
future for all. It is
This year’s THIMUN theme is in the hopes of everyone that
Good Governance and there ‘a consensus (will be reached)
are many nations represented which will bring prosperity
at this conference who all to all’, as said by the Deputy
have different views on what Ambassador of Norway, Siri
good governance is and how Nicolaisin. Alternatively, as
it is interpreted and applied the Ambassador of the Russian
within their territory. Many Federation put it, THIMUN
Ambassadors of the represented and the youth participating in
countries of THIMUN it shall ‘make the world a better
were present at the opening place’.
ceremony today, giving their
compliments to the student The Ambassador of South
delegates representing their Africa, Peter Goosen, expressed
nation as well as their gratitude that THIMUN is a great event
for the students’ efforts. A few that engages young people Eric Lawton

4. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 4 EDITORIAL
Teddy MUNY Tries to Help Haiti
It has been more than twelve Linda Dubbock, Chair of organized a raffle in which ticket. Raffle tickets are
days since a 7.0 magnitude the board of the THIMUN one person will be able to win being sold for 50 cents at the
earthquake struck Port- Foundation, to raise money the teddy bear Teddy MUN. Merchandise Stand. At 50
au-Prince, leaving most for Haiti, honoring Her At the moment, 100 Euros cents or more, even you can
of the city in ruins and Royal Highness, Princess has already been raised, and help make a difference in
resulting in more than 150 Mabel von Oranje-Nassau, the THIMUN Foundation Haiti.
000 confirmed dead. The with the choice of charity hopes that every conference
destruction has inspired in Haiti. Ms. Dubbock has attendant will buy a raffle
Thank you ARAMCO for your generous support to THIMUN. MUNITY looks forward to sharing more information about
your sponsorship in tomorrow’s issue.
Press Box Release
Don’t forget to catch tonight’s movie ‘Silent Army’ – a stark story about an innocent
child forced into child soldiery, whose tale serves as an incentive for us to work
even harder to tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues. Spare some time at
7:30pm for this beautiful and worthy movie and we’ll see you there! The Director of
the movie, Jean van de Velde, would be present to entertain any questions from the
audience.

5. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
INTERVIEW PAGE 5
SG Plans To Ensure THIMUN Succeeds
Secretary General Profile How come you decided matter, is my number one
to apply for the Secretary priority.
General position?
I don’t really know, to be Which do you personally
honest. Few people told me consider the most cur-
I should apply so eventually rently pressing issue in the
I did. I think it’s just because world?
as SG, you can really make Two things. First of all,
changes and contribute. world hunger. There are
1.02 billion undernourished
And what was the first people in the world today.
thing that came to your This means that almost
mind when you found out one in six people do not get
you got the job? enough food, while there is
I couldn’t believe it. I enough food for everyone on
was extremely happy and the planet. Secondly, educa-
couldn’t wait to get started. tion. Education is the key
to the improvement of the
What is the most valuable quality of life in my opinion.
skill you’ve learnt through Education still isn’t accessi-
THIMUN? ble enough for many people,
Teamwork. It’s incredibly and this has to change.
important to try to do ev-
erything as a team and to get How would you like to
everyone involved. This way be remembered by future
you get multiple views from THIMUN generations?
Sophia Palenberg different perspectives, so the As the SG who was happy
Name: Alessandro quality of the final product is and cheerful, and who mo-
Surname: Guglielmi always higher. tivated many people to give
School: Rijnlands Lyceum Wassenaar MUN all they have. Being
How about your most remembered would be more
This year’s Secretary Gen- What do you feel inspires
cherished THIMUN than enough, seeing as it’s all
eral (SG), Alessandro Gug- you most about THIMUN?
memory? about the conference being
lielmi, “the man in charge”, Seeing many young people
Last year’s closing ceremo- remembered and not the
hopes to make this year’s having fun. The reason why
ny. I was a student officer last individual.
Conference as successful so many people want to at-
year and when the closing
and fruitful as possible. tend THIMUN is because
ceremony came to a close, What is your advice to all
Despite having a very tight everyone has a great time.
all the student officers were THIMUN participants,
schedule, he found the The combination of the aca-
still talking amongst each especially to THIMUN
time to share some of his demic aspect and the social
other on the stage. Some- first-timers?
experiences with MUNITY aspect just makes it a great
how, I just didn’t want to get THIMUN might seem
readers... experience. Weeks, even
off the stage. We didn’t want intimidating but there is no
months before the confer-
to leave because we knew it reason why you shouldn’t
ence you’re excited. Then
would mean that the confer- speak up. Don’t be scared
How many M.U.N. during the conference you
ence was definitely coming to take the floor – raise that
Conferences have you at- have an incredible time and
to an end. placard!
tended? the month after the confer-
I’m not 100% sure. I think ence you suffer from the well
Would you ever consider Thank you for your time,
THIMUN will be about my known “post-THIMUN-
dropping out because of Mr. Secretary General, and
18th [or] 20th conference. syndrome”. It is more than
the unbearable work load? for all the hard work you
I have been in the MUN- just a five day simulation of
Never; THIMUN and put into THIMUN!
circuit for quite awhile now! the United Nations.
MUN in general, for that

6. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 6
By Genna Snider MUNITY INTRODUCES THE DSG’S
Interview with Thomas Wilopo:
What is your favorite memory of a previous MUN conference?
My favorite memory of all [the] conferences was when I was a delegate during my first conference (MiniMUN 2007).
I was very shy at first, until I was forced to speak by my chairs. After my first speech, which seemed to last for
ages, my fear of pub- lic speaking disappeared and was replaced by addiction to take the floor and to speak. I also
have some nice memo- ries representing countries like: Pakistan, The Russian Federation (THIMUN 2008 Security
Council) and China.
What do you consider the most pressing issue facing the UN these days?
The most pressing Is- sue facing the UN these days is climate change. Never before has the world been in such big
of a dilemma choosing between lifestyle and climate. Until now it was always lifestyle that came first, which was
very understandable to a certain degree. But now we have to find a compromise between these two, which won’t be
easy. And for that we do need “good governance” and transparency.
wwSophia Palenberg
Interview with Lara Nonninger:
How many MUN conferences have you participated in? What is the most valuable
lesson you have taken away from these conferences?
I have participated in eighteen conferences, this one included. The most valuable les-
son would have to be that no matter what your opinion is, express it, so that people can
understand it and learn from it.
What is your life goal? Does it pertain to the UN or peacekeeping?
My life goal is to go and work for the UN as a field observer after I graduate from
university.
What is your favourite memory of a previous MUN Conference?
My favourite memory is making friends at one Conference and then meeting the same
friends again.
What do you consider the most presing issue facing the UN these days?
I think the most pressing issue facing the UN is globalisation. Sophia Palenberg
What is your life goal? Does it pertain to the UN or peacekeeping?
My life goal is to go and work for the UN as a filed observer after I graduate from university.
Interview with Madeleine Versteeg:
How many MUN conferences have you participated in? What is the most valuable lesson you have taken away
from these conferences?
I haveSophia Palenberg
participated in eighteen or nineteen conferences, not including this year’s conference. The most valuable lesson
I’ve learned is that that even though it is a simulation, MUN really does make a differ-
ence. Maybe not necessarily with the solutions we produce, but it changes people’s way of
thinking and point of views. I have met so many people, thanks to MUN, that I am sure are
someday going to make a huge difference in this world.
How many MUN conferences have you participated in? What is the most valuable les-
son you have taken away from these conferences?
I have participated in eighteen or nineteen conferences, not including this year’s confer-
ence. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that that even though it is a simulation, MUN
really does make a difference. Maybe not necessarily with the solutions we produce, but
it changes people’s way of thinking and point of views. It enlarges the world and views of
all the participants, lets us meet new cultures, lets us think about world issues, and even
though the solutions we come up with might not be carried out now, I have met so many
people, thanks to MUN, that I am sure are someday going to make a huge difference in this
Sophia Palenberg world. In that way, MUN really does contribute something to the real world.

7. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
PAGE 7
What is your life goal? Does it pertain to the UN or peacekeeping?
I do not have a specific life goal yet. I have so many dreams, and I am planning on making as many of them come true
as possible. I would love a job at the UN or at a NGO, but I don’t think you can plan your life out like that. You just have
to see what comes your way. However, my field of study will probably be in an area related to international politics.
What do you hope the THIMUN 2010 conference will achieve?
I hope that it will reach even more people. That not only will we give 4,000 people an amazing week, but we will also
learn something [from] all these people, and that even more people will be motivated to continue this way of thinking
in their everyday lives.
Interview with David Ollivier de Leth:
What do you consider the most pressing issue facing the UN these days?
There are a lot of pressing issues. One of them I am very concerned about is the situation in the Democratic Republic
of Congo. The conflict that is taking place there is the deadliest since WWII (killing 5.4 million people. That is more
than the entire population of Singapore!). The humanitarian situation there is horrific;
enormous amounts of child soldiers are involved and it doesn’t look like the situation
will improve [over the] short term.
What is your life goal? Does it pertain to the UN or peacekeeping?
At the moment, I have a very Miss-World-like life goal. I hope that when I die, I can
say I have significantly improved the lives of people who were not so fortunate to be
born in one of the richest countries in the world. About how to achieve this I am not
entirely sure yet, but I for example know I want to join the United Nations Volunteers
program, and be active in one of the problem areas. Of course, however, this weekend
my committee chose me as “most likely to become a porn star”, so my life goal might
change...
What is your favorite memory of a previous MUN conference?
My favorite memory is making friends at one conference and then meeting the same
friends again.
Sophia Palenberg
What is your favorite memory of a previous MUN conference?
I have an innumerable amount of favorite MUN-memories. But this is one of them: I once represented Iran, and one of
the issues concerned the nuclear program of Iran. Actually there is almost no evidence of the nuclear weapons Iran is
supposed to have, and I was trying to convince the committee of that. But a few minutes later, Iran was compared to a
New York Pizza restaurant with nukes! (Yes indeed, that is a weird metaphor) It was also funny to see a male delegate
accidentally yielding HIMSELF to the female chair.
What do you consider the most pressing issue facing the UN these days?
There are a lot of pressing issues. One of them I am very concerned about is the situation in the Democratic Republic of
Congo. The conflict that is taking place there is the deadliest since WWII (killing 5.4 million people. That is more than
Sophia Palenberg
Sophia Palenberg Sophia Palenberg
Sophia Palenberg

8. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 8
Sophia Palenberg Eric Lawton
Sophia Palenberg
Karina Dukalska
Eric Lawton
Eric Lawton Sophia Palenberg

9. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
PAGE 9
Sophia Palenberg Karina Dukalska
Karina Dukalska Karina Dukalska
Sophia Palenberg
Karina Dukalska Karina Dukalska

10. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 10 FEATURE
By: Aditja Naganath
Discovering The Art of Lobbying
Delegates looking to make their mark
in this year’s conference seized the very
first opportunity they got – the ‘Lobbying’
session. As the adage goes, ‘first impressions
are last impressions’ and this is exactly
what delegates kept in mind when they
sought not only to impress their allies (and
their chairs!) but also to intimidate their
adversaries. Of course, the most successful
delegates did employ some ‘sophisticated’
MUN techniques, some of which I have
taken the liberty to enumerate for you:
• Well Researched:
Well prepared delegates like Amy Zheao
(Delegate of UK) entered the conference
not only with clear objectives but also
with enough firepower to bamboozle other
delegates who were not as well researched,
assimilating them in her bloc in the process. Eric Lawton
• Eloquence Worked: that matter, during lobbying. Norstrom,
Nikhil Lalvani (Delegate of Peru) like many other delegates, was attracted to
• Laptops! : was extremely fluent and glib when those whom he felt knew others as everyone
It has been proven MUNtifically that communicating with other delegates. He seeks to be a part of some sort of circle. It
delegates tend to crowd around the person evidently knew that eloquence always was also amusing to see delegates who had
who wields technology. Fernando Zanardi creates the notion of intellect, whether no real stand on an issue, approached by a
(Delegates of Antigua and Bermuda) or not one has the content backing one couple of other people; the numbers game
seemed to have cracked the system as he up. A majority of the delegates used it as a does have a profound psychological impact
watched others swarm around him, each marketing tool to get recognized. It was on a delegate’s decisions.
dictating their own preambs and operatives. observed that delegates were attracted
When the dust has settled, the credit goes to the eloquent and glib talkers, not the
to him. Those clauses did come from his reticent fact spewing robots and rightly so! • Some Schmoozed:
laptop after all. It’s always important to have something to “I’ll give you chocolate if you recognize
say and to say it well. me” – these unforgettable words to the
General Assembly 2 Chair Rabia Majeed,
clearly explicate the kind of under hand
• Associating tactics certain delegates employed during
with others: the lobbying session. That said, softening
M i t c he l l the chair up a bit can grant certain
N o r s t r o m privileges: an extra minute to speak, your
(Delegate of overly aggressive behavior overlooked from
Botswana) time to time etc. The accumulation of these
realized that even minutiae may actually reap rich rewards at
if he doesn’t know the end of the day – like one’s resolution
the delegate next being passed for example. It’s nice to see
to him, it pays that some delegates are meticulously
to hang out with planning for their future.
him anyway.
Nobody likes After an extremely fruitful session of
to be stranded lobbying, it will be interesting to see what
without a bloc/ delegates do next when the real conference
Eric Lawton group after or for begins. With the amount of planning put
Continued on Page 11.

11. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
FEATURE PAGE 11
Lobbying Pays Off
(Continued)
into the lobbying session, one can only his country’s stand rather than act on his the USA! Talk about irony! To some of
imagine their output during discussion emotions. As a reporter, it was surprising the aspiring and relatively inexperienced
time. It looks like THIMUN XLII will to see delegates representing conflicting delegates out there, it is imperative to
unfold into a very enriching and fulfilling countries work together in the lobbying stick to one’s stand not only because one
conference. session purely because they wanted to is ‘representing’ that country but also to
form a bloc, knew that person or needed preserve the reality of a Model United
(On an off note: While I may not be the to be authors of resolutions. A baffled chair Nations that gives it its name.)
most experienced delegate, I do know that recounted how she was once presented with
during lobbying, a delegate must adhere to a resolution co – submitted by Russia and
The Veto Power Reform in the Security Council
By: Tugce Koseoglu
“I forbid!” That’s since it was established. Federation and its predecessor debatable. Those advocating
what Vyacheslav Molotov, also the Soviet Union with 123 the veto power, mostly the
known as Mr. Veto, meant by “The effect of veto vetoes and the country with the Permanent Five countries,
using the power to veto. Since power is essential in least amount of vetoes is China imply that the utilization of it
fifty-one countries adopted the guiding resolutions...” with six in total. Even though is rare and that it is essential
UN Charter in 1945, the veto the record belongs to the for the collaboration of the P5
power has been used many times Russian Federation, the United countries. They suggest that
for the sake of international When we look back States has used the veto power since the international arms
diplomacy and world peace. through history, the veto power eleven times in recent years, control agreements are the
Although the system has was established just after the mostly on the controversial responsibility of the Security
worked successfully for over founding of UN. In sixty-five issues concerning Israel. Council, the veto power is
half a century, the veto power years the veto power was used The effect of veto needed in the monitoring of
of the UN has always been a 261 times in total, almost three power is essential in guiding the applications of arms. On
controversial issue among the times per year. The vetoing resolutions, although the the other hand, some groups
states of the Security Council record belongs to the Russian pros and cons of vetoes are such as the G4 bloc, formed
by Brazil, China, India and
South Africa, advocate reform
by limiting the veto power,
requiring agreements from
multiple states before using it
or even abolishing it entirely.
Some voiced concerns that
the national interests of the
P5 can stunt the process of
peacekeeping. In addition to
these opinions, some argue that
countries like Brazil, Japan and
Germany should be a part of
the permanent states to balance
power distribution within the
Security Council.
The hint of reform
has already been given with
a proposal concerning the
increase in the number of
permanent states made by the
G4. It seems that the strong
policies of nations and the
sensitivity of the issue may heat
Zack Lee Creative Commons 2.0 BY NC ND up the process of the reform.

12. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 12 FEATURE
Selection Process and Preparation Leads to THIMUN Success
By: Bavo Stevens
The competition is tough. cumbersome, but rewarding intelligent, confident, or especially those outside the
preparation phase. In just a few resolute. By mastering the Art region, THIMUN is also an
Sometimes there are more months, we are changed from of Speaking you will be able to opportunity to travel around
than a hundred applicants for (hopefully) idealistic youths to inflame the hearts of millions Europe. Some delegations even
twelve highly coveted delegate (hopefully) idealistic delegates. to your cause. Patrick McGuire, studied Parisian metro maps
spots. Essays need to be written, As Manuel Ramos, delegate of a Chair of General Assembly before going sightseeing.
speeches prepared, intensive the Dominican Republic, put it, Two, commented that to be
research needs to be done; and to be successful at THIMUN, successful at THIMUN one Lesson 4: Pack Wisely.
all of these before we are even one should be interested in should be an excellent public Packing is also an important
chosen as delegate! With that doing only good. But the speaker. part of the trip, and for some
said, the conclusion is obvious: transformation from idealist delegates, a challenging one.
THIMUN violently gets us to youth to idealistic delegate Lesson 2: Research. THIMUN advisors from
feel the true numbing power of doesn’t happen overnight. At THIMUN, research tropical regions have mentioned
a selection process. With the help of our THIMUN plays an essential since that packing for the cold has
advisors, we master the skills it’s the foundation of all been nearly impossible. Coats,
Those long waits outside the that will help sharpen the dull our interactions. From the sweaters, and thick socks were
interview rooms, the insistent edges of politics as we know it delegates who need to know borrowed from friends or family,
clattering of stiff knees, and today. almost everything about their and most probably thoroughly
alternatively the way in which country to the chairs who washed. But otherwise,
time leading onto the final According to many delegates, need to memorize around complaints about packing
decision seemed to creep by, are no lesson has been lost on them. 4,000 words of information, have been limited to socks and
all things we became painfully Sweat, blood, and tears are put research is essential. Research gloves, articles of clothing that
aware of. After all, regarding the in their work, and with the help has prevented proclamations can be easily replaced in The
interview process, how can we of their THIMUN advisors, of naval warfare by landlocked Hague. It is clear that this year
be expected to, with a meager they’ve become successful countries. THIMUN delegates have been
three minutes, explain how delegates through the mastery well prepared.
MUNtastic we are? It just isn’t of these age old. Lesson 3: Know your way
fair. around. Furthermore, remember
Lesson 1: The Art of Preparation for THIMUN to practice sitting on chairs
Therefore, lesson of the day: Speaking. often goes beyond the because as the World Forum
if you’re here, congratulations; Eloquence in your way of conference itself. Tourism is Conference Center wisely
you’ve made it. speech will make you look an integral part of most, if not announced “due to safety
intelligent, confident, and all, delegations that travel to regulations, sitting on the stairs
And thus begins the long, resolute even if you aren’t The Hague. For many schools, is forbidden at all times.”
Alejandra Paton

13. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
FEATURE PAGE 13
Delegates solve world issues and loosen up, too!
By: Vera Bloemen
for some place to have Paard van Troje’, ‘De Zwarte thought out top 3 things to
Of course we’re all here dinner, and you’d like a Ruiter’ and ‘De Supermarkt’, do:
to change the world, to restaurant with good food all of which are places where 1. Did you know that the Dutch
find solutions to world- and an exotic atmosphere, be you can have a drink, dance soldiers freed Haarlem from the
concerning issues and to sure to visit ‘Popocatepetl’, or just sit and listen to live Spaniards on ice-skates? I guess
a very popular and famous bands play for the whole you’ll never know when ice-
search for proper ways to
skates might come in handy, but
implement them. Of course Mexican restaurant, located night! Other possibilities
you have to admit they’re a lot of
we all want to create a world in the Centrum (Buitenhof at The Hague include ‘Bar fun! Take our advice: go to the
5). Other & Boos’ (Papestraat 26), ‘Buitenhof ’ to practice your ice
options are which consists of a small but skating skills and do yourselves
‘ Va p i a no’ intimate dance floor, and a favor by having a nice, hot cup
and VIP a bar that is always packed of hot chocolate afterwards!
(Very Italian with THIMUN delegates!
Pizza), which And if none of these places 2. Visit the ‘Boulevard’ in
are relatively satisfy your needs, perhaps Scheveningen. Here you can
cheap Italian you could try ‘Club Madness’ walk along the beach while
shopping, visiting nice bars,
rest au ra nt s (Dagelijkse groenmarkt 6),
cafés and restaurants. Perhaps
also with ano ther very popular and you might want to take a dip in
delicious crowded club. Last but not the sea as well?
food and least, there is ‘Byblos’, where
a cozy dinner commences the 3. And for those who want
ambiance evening which culminates to get a little cultural, you can
(B u i t e n h o f in a night of boogying and go to the ‘Museon’ (Scientific
45-51 and partying! Oh, and for the Museum), the ‘Gemeente
Kettingstraat brave ones with golden Museum’ (right now, there is an
1 3 -1 5) . voices make sure to drop by exposition on Haute Couture
and one on Kandinsky!) or the
Other than at ‘Thai Princess’ for some
‘Omniversum’.
these, most of karaoke! (Achterom 10)
Karina Dukalska The Hague’s So, after a long, tedious day of
wel l-k now n We know that you probably debate, make sure you soften up
without war and conflicts, and most visited bars and have a very full schedule, your brains and bodies; loosen
without violations of human clubs are located at the but if you can find some up a little – we’re not just here to
rights; a world where ‘Grote Markt’. When you go extra time, it definitely won’t save the world, we’re also here to
everyone is equal and happy. there, make sure to visit ‘Het hurt to follow our carefully have the time of our lives!
And of course we are
willing to work very
hard to achieve that.
But, after a long
and hard day of
debate, all we really
want to do is to
stop thinking and
working, and to
just have a great
time here at The
Hague. Fortunately,
Munity is here to
suggest to all of you
a few glamorous
places to eat,
socialize and party:
Eric Lawton
If you’re looking

14. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 14 ENTERTAINMENT
How Much Do You Devote Yourself to MUN?
By: Tugce Koseoglu
Sometimes being a delegate can be hectic and not all the metabolisms can handle big doses
of MUN fever. If you think you need a small dose for your own sake, come and take a glance
at this quiz which can show you how much you take MUN seriously!
1. MUN becomes the most enjoyable…
a. When you take the floor.(4)
b. When you dine with your delegation after a tiring day. (2)
c. When you dance till you drop at the post-conference party. (1)
d. When you explore the city of The Hague. (3)
2. During the conference, the accessory that you can’t live without is …
a. Your camera. (3)
b. A Louis Vuitton handbag. (2)
c. A classy folder. (4)
d. The Blackberry you bought recently. (1)
3. During a recess period, your ambassador can find you…
a. Standing with other delegates, chit-chatting (or more?). (1)
b. Taking photos of the conference venue. (3)
c. In the bathroom, freshening up. (2)
d. In the middle of an enthusiastic crowd, discussing the next resolution to be debated. (4)
4. Let’s proceed with the post-conference party attitude. In the party…
a. You feel like you should be outside, doing a little more sightseeing. (3)
b. You are hoping that you’ll be chosen as the “Best Dressed Delegate” in the next issue of MUNITY. (2)
c. You are sitting/standing in a corner, discussing committee issues and best debate moments with
others from your committee room. (4)
d. You are dancing with the boy/girl whom you had been talking a lot to during the conference. (1)
5. The note-passing issue: Usually you pass notes when you…
a. Are desperate to ask someone how your hair looks. (2)
b. Are desperate to tell someone that the admin staff is cute. (1)
c. Are desperate to ask for an opinion concerning the amendment to be debated. (4)
d. Are desperate to ask someone where the best restaurant is in town. (3)
6. While you were packing for THIMUN 2010, you filled your luggage with…
a. Lots of clothes - what else would you possibly need? (4)
b. Lots of batteries – you’ll definitely need them. (3)
c. Lots of extra paper and pens. (1)
d. Lots of high-heeled / fashionable shoes; that’s what all MUN conferences are for! (2)
Now, add the numbers next to the
choices that you’ve chosen and check
out your results on the next page!
(Continued on Page 15)

15. January 25, 2010 Issue 1
ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 15
How Much Do You Devote Yourself to MUN?
(Continued)
0-8 -> Delegate: Dear delegate! Welcome to the room! No, not the dance room, the committee room! We think that you are
too involved with the informal parts of MUN rather than the serious business. We know that The Hague is a beautiful city and
we understand that the delegate in front of you is very pretty, but you should remind yourself that this is MUN! Just try to tell
yourself that debates can also be quite interesting and fun when you stop thinking about the post-conference party and actually
get yourself involved during the debates!
9-17 -> Chair: A chair who is stuck in the middle! As we can predict, you love being the social butterfly and tasting the sweet
side of MUN, and you want to shine during the heated debates as well. You need to keep the balance between the urge to
socialize and the need to participate in debates. Well, if you want to be the center of attention during the debates, you have to
work a bit more, honey! We know that you are just a step behind becoming the best delegate on your committee!
18-24 -> PGA: Congrats PGA! You are a delegate everyone desires to be. You concentrate on debates and try to be the most
active delegate in your committee. We can say that you are on the right track to accomplish it. Still, Mr. /Ms. PGA, you must
bear in mind that MUN conferences give you the opportunity to explore wonderful friendships, to visit very beautiful cities
such as The Hague, and to enjoy the privilege of wearing formal dress!
Remember people, in THIMUN, being yourself is what makes the experience all the more unforgettable! Good luck to you
during the conference and remember to keep the balance!
Cracking Jokes Like a Comedian
By: Bavo Stevens
Like any good diplomat or politician, THIMUN delegates
spend their time fighting amongst themselves on issues that
need solutions. Debates can get fiery, and zealotry is not
uncommon. Luckily for the hard working delegates, there
are always many individuals with a good sense of humor.
They cast aside the serious tone of the debates and decide
to open their speeches with the funniest opening line that
they can think of. The following are funny opening lines.
Everything is PG rated.
• This resolution is like a donut, sweet but it has a large hole
in the middle.
• This resolution is like a jelly donut; it tastes good and
doesn’t have any holes in it!
• This resolution is like a block of wood, it’s strong and
sturdy, but easily catches fire.
• This resolution is like my mobile phone, it may be old, but
it has always worked well.
• This resolution is like tape, it’s a quick fix, but no long
term solution.
• This resolution is like a suspension bridge; it’s safe and
bridges gaps.
• This resolution is like a pineapple: it tastes good but it
hurts when you sit on it.
But while this sense of levity does exist at
THIMUN, humor at the conference is not limited to
opening lines. Untapped sources of comedic talent will be
discovered and people will learn to laugh to the situational
irony they will find themselves in. Naturally, the seriousness
of the debates will be up held, but THIMUN, prepare to
laugh.
By: Alejandra Paton

16. Issue 1 January 25, 2010
PAGE 16
by Patricia Kim TALKING OF THIMUN
For the first day of THIMUN, we interviewed four delegates from different committees:
Thomas van der Sommen, representative from the World Bank of Economic and Social
Council (ECOSOC), Gabriela Lima, delegate of Guatemala from the Disarmament
Commission Commission 1, Neha Lalani, delegate of St. Vincent Grenadines from
General Assembly 1 (GA1), and Jason Huh, delegate of Jordan from Human Rights
Commission 1 (HR1). These were their answers:
Goals for this year’s conference?
Neha: To speak and participate a lot in the How are your first impressions of this year’s conference?
debate because I didn’t really speak much Neha: The room is very small, but the overall impression is
last year. organized and nice.
Jason: I’m mostly here to improve my debate Jason: This is my first year at THIMUN, so I’m pretty
and speaking skills because THIMUN is a scared. There are a lot of people, but I’ll get used to the
great opportunity to talk in front of a lot of forum soon.
people. Thomas: I was a delegate in GA last year. ECOSOC is the
Thomas: Main-submitting, but having fun biggest forum I’ve been in.
as well. That’s the biggest goal. Gabriela: Everyone has a lot of experience and most
Gabriela: Just working on my resolution and delegates seem to have prepared a lot for the conference.
giving out ideas.
What are you looking forward to besides the
conference?
Neha: Because I used to live in Den Haag, How do you plan to contribute in your forum?
I’m planning on seeing my old friends. Jason: I’m mostly going to throw out ideas for people to
Thomas: Partying. I live here so I’m planning consider. By coming up with new ideas, other delegates
on partying with new and old friends will add those onto their resolutions, and hopefully the
together. debates will take new directions.
Gabriella: I’m here for the conference, but Gabriela: Helping some of the resolutions to pass if I’m
also shopping and hanging out. sided with it, and providing other delegates with new
ideas.
LAPTOP FEVER! Eric Lawton
Eric Lawton
Karina Dukalska
Karina Dukalska Eric Lawton