Although political interest among today’s youth has reached an all-time low, members of the Model United Nations club (MUN) do not conform to this trend.

“In MUN we mirror what the UN Conference does when they meet,” junior Anthony Solhjoo said. “Everyone in the group gets their own country, which they are responsible for researching, and then we discuss up to three topics a day, with each member arguing their country’s position.”

Members are presented their assignments in advance along with the topics they will be presenting.

“I was given Kazakhstan—a country that I’ve never really considered,” junior Sangavi Manalan said, “and by researching it, I found that the country actually plays a very large role in human trafficking, a serious modern problem.”

MUN is internationally recognized, with many groups holding competitions all around the world. Although this is West’s first Model United Nations club, the three founders, juniors Anthony Solhjoo, Tiasha Joardar, and Cynthia Lee, have a clear idea of the direction the club will take.

“Although Model UN is still in a growing phase, I know already that we will go far in competition,” Solhjoo said. “The other presidents and I hope to pass it on to others who are interested when the three of us eventually leave for college.”

The research and discussion brought about by this club has taught MUN members many things.

“It has just given me a lot of perspective,” Manalan said. “It’s easy to judge other countries decisions from the other side of the world but when you learn of their living conditions, economy, spiritual customs and family value, it’s easier to understand why officials take the stance they do.”

The presidents of the group are fairly certain that MUN will continue throughout next year, with both the members and the sponsor hoping that it will.

“I really hope that the club is something that sparks interest and continues to grow,” club sponsor Melissa Colett said.