Rio de Janeiro Model United Nations

Dear Delegates, Chairs, and Advisors,

On behalf of the Secretariat, I would like to extend a warm welcome to RioMUN V, which will take place from November 7th to 9th. 

This year’s theme“Entertaining a Thought Without Agreeing: A Call for Discursive Integrity and Constructive Dissent” is inspired by a quote from Aristotle, and it feels particularly relevant in the context of Model United Nations. In a world where differing viewpoints can often divide us, the ability to entertain and critically engage with ideas we may not immediately agree with is more important than ever. Aristotle’s notion that intellectual growth stems from considering ideas and perspectives outside of our own is something we hope will guide you throughout the conference. MUN, at its best, encourages us not just to defend our views but to actively engage with and understand those of others, even if we do not fully agree.

This principle is at the heart of diplomacy. The work of engaging with conflicting ideas and interests requires not only intellectual rigor but also patience and humility. These are qualities that I am confident will make this conference a rewarding experience for all of you.

To that end, we’ve meticulously crafted a selection of committees that will challenge your thinking and push you to expand your intellectual boundaries. For those interested in exploring the role of media in diplomacy, the Press Corps provides an opportunity to capture and communicate the stories of the conference, either as journalists or multimedia specialists.

Throughout the conference, I hope you will keep Aristotle’s words in mind: “It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it.” In the context of MUN, this means engaging with and critically evaluating ideas that challenge your own, in a spirit of mutual respect. It is through this process of intellectual engagement and dialogue that we grow as thinkers and diplomats.

If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at yasminvgpinto@gmail.com. I look forward to seeing the thoughtful and respectful discussions that will emerge from all of you. I’m confident this will be a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Best regards,
Yasmin Pinto 

 Secretary-General, RioMUN V