220 Young People from 25 Countries Gather to Discuss Global Issues

Jakarta — Amid the growing trend of increasingly flexible cross-border learning, international conferences no longer require flying thousands of kilometres. Through laptop screens, hundreds of young people from various parts of the world can sit together, discuss, and even debate global issues. This is precisely what took place at the 27th Asia Youth International Model United Nations Virtual Conference (AYIMUN VC).

Organised by International Global Network (IGN) on 14–15 February 2026, the conference was attended by 220 delegates from 25 countries. Adopting a virtual format, AYIMUN VC delivered an intense global diplomacy experience despite the absence of physical meetings.

For young people interested in international affairs, AYIMUN is not merely a formal debating platform. It also serves as a space to develop self-confidence, public speaking, and negotiation skills — soft skills that have become essential “social capital” in the global era.

“As AYIMUN delegates, you will think strategically, negotiate responsibly, and collaborate across perspectives,” said Muhammad Fahrizal, President of IGN, in a statement quoted on Wednesday, 18 February 2026.

“Make this conference a place where innovative ideas meet practical and refined solutions, and where collective action is strengthened,” he added.

Discussing Global Issues Close to Everyday Life

The 27th AYIMUN VC divided discussions into four councils with topics relevant to contemporary life. In the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) council, participants discussed the problem of single-use plastics and the phenomenon of “plastic continents” in the oceans — an issue closely linked to everyday consumption habits.

In the World Health Organization (WHO) council, discussions highlighted the impact of air pollution and industrial waste on public health. Meanwhile, UNESCO raised the topic of climate resilience in poverty alleviation efforts, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) council addressed strategic competition and environmental security in the melting Arctic region.

Although the topics may sound daunting, the discussion format was designed to remain dynamic. Delegates participated in formal sessions to draft solution documents, guided by experienced chairs from various countries including France, South Korea, Thailand, Lebanon, and Indonesia. The outcome was not merely debate, but also concrete recommendations.