expert opinions on clermun
ClerMUN shapes global citizens
Alice : What is your perspective on initiatives such as MUNs ?
A. L R. : I have a completely positive view. These initiatives demonstrate that young people—your generation—are interested in global affairs, that they want to be involved, and that they are aware the world is facing challenges but also believe in the possibility of reform and improvement—even within the UN itself. While the UN may be imperfect and have many flaws, it remains irreplaceable. It is up to your generation to carry the torch, to propose reforms, and to ensure that most countries implement the UN's resolutions. Your generation will have a key role in persuading and putting pressure on those countries that fail to comply.
Alain Leroy: Ambassador of France, former Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations in charge of peacekeeping operations, and former Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS).
​Alice : What value do you see in the work of young MUN participants? What impact can their work have ?
A. L R. : As for impact, you draft resolutions and, if they are of high enough quality, they can even be transmitted to authorities in New York. In any case, it's an excellent training ground: learning to debate, to listen, to be persuasive—first among your peers, and eventually with representatives from other countries. This educational experience is extremely valuable in shaping you into true global citizens, committed to taking responsibility for the world’s affairs. As your Secretary-General said: “Let’s build it tomorrow.”
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Alice : What message would you like to share with young people, as a former UN Under-Secretary-General ?
A. L R. : Learn to speak English fluently—it’s essential. If possible, learn other languages too. But above all, be curious, travel, and study history—because one is far more credible in debates when they understand the histories of different nations. Then, work to make multilateralism more effective. In today’s world, issues like climate change, war, pandemics, and terrorism cannot be resolved without multilateral bodies with universal reach. The only one that exists is the United Nations. It needs to be reformed, as it has many shortcomings—but there are many places where the UN and its agencies have been, and continue to be, extremely useful.
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