At Leysin American School, students have abundant opportunities to travel internationally and engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that foster both personal growth, learning, and global awareness. Most recently, LAS students traveled to The Hague, Netherlands, to participate in the Hague International Model United Nations (THIMUN) conference—an unforgettable four-day immersion in diplomacy, debate, and cross-cultural exchange.

An Exceptional Learning Experience
MUN is an experiential learning simulation model where students practice their debate, diplomacy, and research skills by solving a problem with other “delegates” who represent countries from around the world. Set in The Hague, the city of international peace and justice, THIMUN offers students a highly realistic Model United Nations experience by strictly following UN procedures and simulating authentic bodies such as the General Assembly, Human Rights Council, and International Court of Justice.

This year’s conference centered on the theme “Culture & Heritage: Embracing Diversity,” bringing together students from more than 150 schools around the world to tackle complex global issues. Through rigorous debate, negotiation, and collaboration, LAS students sharpened their research, analytical thinking, public speaking, and cross-cultural collaboration skills while gaining new perspectives on the future of international relations in an increasingly interconnected world.

Preparing for Global Leadership
Preparation for THIMUN began long before students arrived in The Hague. Throughout the fall and spring activity sessions, LAS MUN participants met weekly to develop essential skills including research, technical writing, resolution drafting, and public speaking. During these meetings students explore current global challenges, simulate United Nations committees, and practice defending national positions. These skills are vital for Model United Nations, but more importantly, they equip students for future academic and professional success. In addition, LAS students also organized and hosted LASMUN last fall which enabled them to become very familiar with the structure, content, and activity of a Model United Nations. 

A Milestone Year for LAS MUN
For the first time, LAS was selected to represent a country on the Security Council. This selection is a tremendous honor, as only 15 of the more than 150 attending schools were chosen. Our students approached this exceptional opportunity and responsibility with care and dedication. Thanks to their hard work in preparing for the conference, they made meaningful contributions throughout the event. Drafting and passing legislation, forming strategically beneficial partnerships with other countries, advocating for their assigned positions, and influencing voting outcomes through compelling persuasion were just some of the achievements that made the entire LAS community proud.

Staff and Student Reflections

Mr. Flynn-Padick, Teacher and LAS MUN Faculty Sponsor:
“The THIMUN trip is always one of the highlights of my year. Although it is physically and mentally demanding for both me and the students, seeing their growth in confidence during the conference makes it worth it. Some of my favorite moments are watching students overcome their nerves to speak in front of 150–200 peers, and seeing the look of accomplishment on their faces when they get a resolution passed or successfully block one they oppose.”

Dominik ’26. Historical Security Council:
“Owen '26 and I represented Norway in a special committee set in 2002. With only 15 states represented, the committee offered an engaging environment for debate and for developing interpersonal skills. I met incredible people from places ranging from the United States to Serbia, many of whom I plan to stay in contact with. My understanding of ethnic violence, armed resistance, and conflicts partially driven by climate change grew substantially. Visiting the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice, along with experiencing The Hague, made this an amazing experience. As a senior, THIMUN 2025 and 2026 stand out as highlights of my time at LAS.”

Nora ’28, Human Rights Commission 2:
“I participated in THIMUN 2026 in the Human Rights Council, representing Bahrain. With around 200 delegates, it was one of the largest committees I’ve ever been part of. We debated democracy, the killing of human rights defenders, and the growing role of influencers in international relations. Staying true to a country’s values while debating these topics was challenging but rewarding. Making friends and alliances from around the world, and exploring the Netherlands for the first time, made this an incredible experience. I hope to have the opportunity to attend again.”

Michelle ’28, Special Conference on Culture & Heritage 1:
“This year, I had the honor of participating in THIMUN 2026. It was my first conference of this size, and nerves were definitely something I had to overcome. Debating cultural artifacts and promoting language diversity with students from around the world was a highlight, as was making new friends. Even the evenings, laughing together and ordering Uber Eats after long days, made the experience special. Overall, it was unforgettable, and I hope to have the opportunity to return.”

An Experience That Lasts Beyond the Conference
From formal debate halls to cultural exploration in The Hague, THIMUN provided LAS students with a learning experience that extends far beyond the conference itself. Stepping into the role of global delegates, students gained confidence, built lasting connections, and developed skills that will support them well beyond their time at LAS. Overall, THIMUN is a transformative experience that prepares students to become informed, empathetic, and globally-minded leaders.