DIMUN XIV: Stenciling Diplomacy
From March 1-3, Dulwich College Beijing proudly welcomed over 250 delegates and directors from 12 different schools across Asia for a lively, dialogue-filled atmosphere to celebrate the fourteenth Dulwich International Model United Nations conference, otherwise known as DIMUN XIV.
DIMUN XIV: Stenciling Diplomacy
DIMUN is a student-led initiative that aims to inspire, provoke thought, and foster compassion amongst students by modelling the practices of diplomacy within the United Nations through debate, academic writing, and interpersonal collaboration.
This year’s event was hosted and organised by Secretaries-Generals Rachael H and Olivia K, Deputies Hillary T and Sophie S, Head of Tech Laetitia H, Heads of Admin Elena T, Rizzy P, and Heads of Press Jason Z and Amy W, under the guidance and support of Ms McCaw, Mr Carey, and Ms Tomaszun.
Themed Stenciling Diplomacy, DIMUN XIV symbolised both new beginnings post-pandemic recovery, as well as the DIMUN XIV team’s wish to reform the rigid frameworks of diplomacy in modern political landscapes and empower delegates to master the art of layering intricate diplomatic solutions.
Using the metaphor of stencilling, where each layer represents a diverse viewpoint, the team aimed to allow participants’ ideas to converge and become collaborative and innovative approaches to global issues. By fostering an environment that celebrates diverse perspectives, the conference endeavoured to weave a fabric of interconnectedness and mutual respect, molding future leaders, chairs and delegates alike, to approach diplomacy as an art form— a delicate, layered process that, when skillfully applied, fosters effective communication and sustainable resolutions.
DIMUN XIV Delegates
Having made significant strides in progress since the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s annual DIMUN conference saw delegates from seven committees of the DIMUN conference debate on 14 different topics, ranging from bridging post-pandemic educational gaps and combating global debt crises to safeguarding adolescent mental health and solving conflicts in Congo.
Beyond merely a wide range of contemporary issues eagerly awaiting solutions, this year’s DIMUN also welcomed a multitude of perspectives by bringing together a vast variety of students worldwide. Participants ranged from students from Tianjin and Shanghai to Seoul and even Fiji. Empowered by this unique blend of different cultural lenses, DIMUN XIV truly gave students an opportunity to engage in global dialogue.
This year’s theme, Stencilling Diplomacy, nurtured a rich tapestry of understanding and collaboration amongst young aspiring diplomats, arming them with the essential values of negotiation, empathy, and cooperation as they navigated the complexities of international relations.
In an era characterised by polarisation, hostility, and discord, DIMUN XIV: Stenciling Diplomacy strived to serve as the cornerstone, enabling delegates to comprehend and appreciate the depth and intricacies of negotiations, bridging gaps, and fostering a global community poised for meaningful dialogue and joint problem-solving. “It’s exceptional seeing how some delegates advance from being unable to speak at the start of the conference to gradually developing courage and confidence at the end.” Carmen D. Z., a Year 12 committee chair of the special conference (SPC), stated.
While aspiring young diplomats crafted away resolutions and speeches, DIMUN gladly welcomed two esteemed keynote speakers to share their experience under the theme of Stenciling Diplomacy within their respective careers.
Our Keynote Speakers
Effective communication, meaningful partnerships, and empathy are essential to young diplomats considering careers in international relations to construct a brighter future. One of our keynote speakers, Mr An Zheng Wei, a Senior Investment Officer at the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), expressed that "my favourite part of my job comes from the impact of the investments we make. Having managed rural projects in regions such as the Gujarat state of India, seeing the successes of the projects and the smiles on those villagers’ faces are truly what’s priceless.”
Our second keynote speaker, Mr Adh T Stevens, the First Secretary and Vice Consul at the U.S. Embassy Beijing Public Affairs Section, reminded delegates of the importance of a strong mindset. “We are living in a golden era; now is the best time to be alive in the history of humanity. Don’t take it for granted, stay positive, be grateful for what you have, and most importantly, never lose hope.”
DIMUN XIV extends our sincere gratitude to our treasured keynote speakers, Mr Adh T Stevens and Mr. An Zheng Wei. Special thanks to all hard-working admins, press, chairs, and delegates.
