Representing Denmark at Model United Nations: A Copenhagen Business School Journey

During my time at Copenhagen Business School, one of the most impactful experiences I had was representing Denmark at a Model United Nations (MUN) conference. As a proud student of CBS, I took on the role of a Danish delegate, tasked with addressing critical global challenges while embodying Denmark’s values and policy positions.

Male delegate in formal suit representing Denmark at the 2023 MUN conference, seated at the United Nations General Assembly hall with a microphone and UN
Representing Denmark at the Model United Nations conference in the United Nations General Assembly hall, embodying diplomacy and sustainability

Embodying Denmark’s Vision on the Global Stage

As a delegate representing Denmark, my role was to advocate for the nation’s priorities in [specific committee, e.g., the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) or the General Assembly]. Given Denmark’s global reputation as a leader in sustainability, renewable energy, and social equity, I focused on advancing policies that aligned with these values. Whether it was championing clean energy initiatives, supporting inclusive economic development, or promoting human rights, every statement I made reflected Denmark’s commitment to building a sustainable and equitable future.

Preparing for the conference involved meticulous research. I delved into Denmark’s domestic and international policies, analyzed its contributions to the UN, and studied its stance on the key issues under discussion. This preparation not only enhanced my understanding of Denmark’s diplomatic strategies but also deepened my appreciation for the complexities of policymaking.

A Lesson in Diplomacy and Leadership

One of the most valuable takeaways from the conference was the art of diplomacy. Negotiating resolutions with delegates who often had conflicting priorities taught me the importance of balancing national interests with global responsibilities. The challenge of finding consensus amid diverse viewpoints mirrored real-life situations in business and politics.

Group photo of the CBS MUN team in formal suits, with banners promoting the UN Sustainable Development Goals in the background

Copenhagen Business School’s focus on global perspectives and sustainability equipped me with a solid foundation for this challenge. Courses on international trade, sustainable business models, and entrepreneurship provided the necessary context to address complex issues from multiple angles.

Lessons in Diplomacy and Collaboration

The MUN conference was more than an academic exercise—it was a dynamic platform to engage with students from around the world, each representing different nations and perspectives. Some highlights included:

  • Negotiating for Consensus: Representing Denmark required balancing my country’s progressive ideals with the need to build consensus among countries with vastly different priorities. This often meant crafting resolutions that were both ambitious and pragmatic.
  • Drafting Resolutions: Crafting resolutions that balanced feasibility and ambition required creativity and precision, skills I’ve found invaluable in my professional and entrepreneurial journey.
  • Cross-Cultural Collaboration: The conference brought together delegates from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds. Navigating these differences to achieve shared goals was an invaluable learning experience that mirrored real-world diplomacy.