EventsNewsStudents at DCMUN

Don’t be surprised next week when you see the streets of Cork inundated with executive young people booted and suited with lanyards, badges & folders.  You will see them walking with confidence, you’ll hear them talking about ways to solve pressing world issues, how to combat injustice and end wars.  That’s right, Model United Nations is back to Cork City Hall.

Every January, students from all over the country and from overseas flock to Cork City Hall, where Cork Education and Training Boards, Davis College organises DCMUN – the largest international Model United Nations conference in Ireland.  This year’s conference, DCMUN 2025, will be in session in Cork City Hall from the 21st to the 24th January.  The conference will be attended by over 600 students from 42 schools from Ireland, Germany and Spain.

This conference hosted by Davis College has been running since 2016 in the City Hall. Students are assigned to be a delegate for a particular country or NGO.  It is their prerogative to research their delegation, find out where it stands on the issues relevant to the conference and prepare and deliver speeches.

Conference organiser, José Horta, established the Model United Nations Club in the school 10 years go and says he is extremely proud to see how it has flourished.  “The students are now the driving force behind the whole event”, he states.  “It is a student-run event, for students.  It gives them an opportunity to discuss and attempt to solve issues of global importance, ranging from the question of reproductive rights to conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine.”

Áine O’Rourke, the student who is the Secretary-General, has no qualms in saying “as Secretary General, I am highly anticipating getting the opportunity to work alongside the chief staff, a group of my peers, organising a student run conference for over 600 young people.  One of the highlights of DCMUN is undoubtedly meeting individuals who share the same desire for change and willingness to take action, and I am so grateful to be a part of this transformational experience.”

Áine is an example of someone who feels that she has benefitted greatly from the experience of being involved.  She credits her involvement in DCMUN, with giving her the confidence and skills required to be successful in so many areas of his life.  “I have been involved in DCMUN for 5 years now, and I have seen first-hand its ability to transform the self-esteem and confidence of young people. It empowers through information and teaches the younger generation the importance of being informed on current affairs. On a personal level, DCMUN has been essential in inspiring me to challenge the issues I see on a day to day basis and has equipped me with the skills to be able to advocate for change”.

Denis Leamy, Chief Executive of Cork ETB, addressed the audience during the welcoming speeches, stating:

“I am delighted to be here with you this afternoon for this significant conference modelled after the United Nations. It is a testament to its importance that this event has continued to grow and strengthen over the years.

Over the coming days, you will engage with pressing global issues, including the Revision and Reform of the Geneva Convention, the Reform of Intelligence Agencies and Secret Services, and other critical topics affecting our world.

While our world faces numerous challenges, you, as young people, have an essential role in shaping how we adapt and respond to these issues.  To achieve meaningful change, it is crucial that you are provided with the time and space to discuss the challenges that impact our global community. This conference is your opportunity to engage, deliberate, and make your voices heard.”