Model United Nations Training: Shaping Future Leaders – The American University of Kurdistan

The Kurdistan Foundation recently launched a Model United Nations (MUN) training in Duhok, highlighting the vital role of youth in diplomacy and peacebuilding. Participants explored global conflicts, examining their implications for Kurdistan and the broader region.

This six-week program, organized by the Kurdistan Foundation, is held every Saturday on the AUK campus, starting from February 1st. It brings together university students from the University of Duhok, the University of Zakho, and AUK, fostering collaboration and learning among future leaders.

On Saturday, February 8, at the second weekly session, Dr. Jiyar Aghapouri, Director of AUK’s Center for Peace and Human Security, was an invited speaker. He introduced key moments in history, including the Treaty of Westphalia (1648), colonialism, and World Wars I and II, which led to the creation of the United Nations (UN) and shaped the modern international system. The discussion highlighted the UN’s role in conflict resolution, economic development, and climate action, as well as ongoing challenges such as power struggles and institutional reform.

The training also covered topics of contemporary relevance where youth need to take leadership roles in their communities, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), economic globalization, and climate action.

AUK’s Center for Peace and Human Security is committed to community outreach, empowering individuals to promote peace and enhance human security in Kurdistan and the Middle East. This collaboration with the Kurdistan Foundation marks a significant step toward fostering a culture of diplomacy, leadership, and global engagement among youth. By equipping participants with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate international relations, this initiative contributes to building a more informed, resilient, and proactive generation capable of addressing future global challenges.