The National Model United Nations Delegation of Tuebingen University, representing the Republic of Albania at the 2025 New York conference, is on the road again! To prepare for the international environment our delegation will face in New York in just a few weeks, all the students embarked on a study trip to Geneva, immersing themselves in the world of diplomacy by visiting UN agencies and international organizations.
Switzerland welcomed us for four days at the end of February, offering not only valuable learning opportunities but also the chance to explore the unique atmosphere of Geneva, the heart of diplomacy in Europe. Between meetings, we wandered through its picturesque streets, admiring the contrast between the city’s historical charm and its modern role as a global hub for international cooperation.
To fully embrace the spirit of diplomacy and feel even closer to our future aspirations, we all dressed in business attire as a sign of respect for the prestigious institutions hosting us. This formal approach reinforced the importance of the experience, making every visit feel like a step closer to the professional paths we hope to pursue.
On the 26th of February, the delegation visited the headquarters of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). We attended a lecture with an expert on the topic of refugees worldwide. We learned who is eligible to be considered a refugee, why people are forced to flee their homes, and the staggering number of refugees, amounting to millions globally.
The UNHCR, based in Geneva, plays a crucial role in coordinating international efforts to protect and support displaced persons. Its work spans from providing emergency relief, such as shelter, food, and medical aid, to advocating for long-term solutions, including resettlement, local integration, and voluntary repatriation. The organization collaborates closely with governments and NGOs to ensure refugees‘ rights are upheld, that they receive legal protection, and that they have access to education and employment opportunities. It also monitors global displacement trends and contributes to policy-making aimed at addressing the root causes of forced migration.
Through our visit, we gained a deeper understanding of the immense challenges faced by displaced populations and the extensive efforts undertaken by the UNHCR to offer them security, dignity, and hope for a better future.
On the same day, in the afternoon, we had the pleasure of visiting the UNESCO offices in Geneva. Contrary to what many of us initially believed, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization does not focus solely on promoting scientific development and protecting cultural and natural heritage.
Founded in 1945 after World War II, UNESCO aims to build peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture. Over the years, it has expanded its mission to protect freedom of expression, promote quality education, support scientific progress, and address climate change. Our visit provided valuable insights into its essential role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable world.
What made this visit truly special was the opportunity to explore UNESCO’s archives. An expert guided us through the digitization process of educational books, ensuring they become accessible online for researchers and anyone interested in these topics. The state-of-the-art machine used for this process is one of a kind, an impressive piece of technology that allows for high-precision scanning and preservation of valuable materials, capable of recognizing any alphabet and sign.
On the second day of our trip, we had the pleasure of meeting a former Tuebingen University student who, ten years ago, also participated in NMUN. Now working in Geneva, he was our expert guide during our visit to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Meeting him was reassuring for many of us, as it made a career in international relations feel more tangible and achievable. He showed us around the beautiful WTO building, which was once the Centre William Rappard, originally established as the International Labour Office. We took a few group pictures and learned about the history and key functions of the WTO, gaining valuable insights into global trade and economic diplomacy.
In the afternoon, we had the opportunity to meet an employee of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). This organization plays a crucial role in many areas that often go unnoticed, yet its work has a significant impact on our daily lives. Established in 1947, UNECE focuses on promoting economic cooperation and integration among European countries, but its influence extends beyond economics, covering areas such as environmental policy, transport, trade, and sustainable development.
During our meeting, she explained how UNECE’s efforts have been fundamental in shaping road safety standards across Europe. Thanks to years of collaboration and regulation, the organization has contributed to the development of harmonized traffic rules, safer vehicle standards, and improved infrastructure, significantly reducing accidents and fatalities. Beyond transport, UNECE’s work extends into everyday consumer safety. She highlighted how they regulate the labeling of hazardous substances, ensuring that products sold in stores include internationally recognized warning signs. For example, the flammability symbol on detergents or chemical products is the result of UNECE’s meticulous standardization efforts, helping to protect consumers by providing clear and consistent safety information.
It was fascinating to discover how much UNECE’s work influences our daily lives, from the roads we drive on to the products we use at home. This visit shed light on the hidden yet essential contributions of international organizations in shaping a safer and more regulated world.
Our last meeting took place the following day, when, early in the morning, the delegation visited the World Health Organization (WHO). Visiting the headquarters of such a large and influential international organization was truly thrilling.
During the visit, we had the opportunity to discuss at length the global COVID-19 pandemic and the unique challenges it posed to organizations like the WHO. Despite being incredibly skilled and well-resourced, the organization found itself needing to rethink and adapt its entire system to respond to a crisis of unprecedented scale. They were tasked with developing new safety standards, coordinating international responses, and investing in laboratory work at a speed and scale never seen before. The WHO also played a critical role in ensuring equitable access to vaccines and providing guidance to governments, healthcare systems, and communities in the fight against the virus.
It was eye-opening to learn about the complex processes involved in managing a global health crisis, especially considering the pandemic’s widespread impact on every aspect of society. This visit made it clear that organizations like the WHO are not just responding to health emergencies—they are working tirelessly to prevent future crises and build a more resilient global health infrastructure.
As we left the headquarters, reflecting on everything we had learned, we couldn’t help but feel inspired by the work being done at the WHO and other international institutions. This experience made us realize how much more there is to understand and contribute to in the world of international relations and diplomacy. We left Geneva with renewed motivation, looking forward to what awaits us in New York at the upcoming NMUN conference.