Building Self-Confidence and Mutual Trust at AWMUN XIV Maldives

Delegates from eight countries took part in Asia World Model United Nations (AWMUN) XIV Maldives, held in the Maldives from 15 to 19 May 2026. The event, organised by the international education organisation focused on youth development, International Global Network (IGN), provides a global stage for delegations to voice and act on current world issues. AWMUN XIV features two councils. First, the World Health Organization (WHO) with the topic “Preventing the Spread of Communicable Diseases in Public Places” for participants aged 11-14. Second, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) with the topic “Fair Play: Protecting Political Rights and Preventing Arbitrary Detention During Electoral Processes” for participants aged 15 and above. According to a press release received by Media Indonesia on Monday (18 May), in his address, Muhammad Fahrizal, President of the International Global Network, stated that AWMUN is not merely a conference, but a stepping stone where brilliant ideas will be tested, confidence will be built, and the participants’ journey toward a future on the global stage will begin. In a speech by the President of the Maldives, read by the Maldives Minister of Youth and Sports, Abdulla Rafiu, it was conveyed that leadership in the current era cannot walk alone, but must be built on the basis of compassion and cooperation. He also urged all youths present to take real action and not underestimate their own abilities to effect change. In addition, the Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iruthisham Adam, who attended, stated that confidence and mutual trust are essential elements in the negotiation process. She stressed that such habits need to be built from an early age, starting in the classroom, in daily conversations, and in international forums such as AWMUN. Furthermore, she noted that platforms like AWMUN not only build relations and connections between countries but also serve as real simulations of international diplomacy. Through this forum, participants learn highly important skills that are rarely taught, namely the ability to disagree without belittling others, and the ability to listen empathetically. She argued that these skills are not merely conference abilities but part of 21st-century competencies essential for the youth. AWMUN has been officially registered with the National Achievement Centre (Puspresnas) under the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia, thereby strengthening academic portfolios and relevant international experience in the admission processes to leading universities as well as globally reputable professional institutions. IGN runs two flagship programmes, Asia World Model United Nations (AWMUN) and Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN). IGN has also prepared the next conference, AYIMUN 21st, to be held on 26-29 June 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. These conferences offer young people worldwide the opportunity to develop soft skills and gain exposure to current global developments.