Hello Delegates!
A fundamental part of being a representative at the United Nations (and, thus, at a MUN Conference) is an awareness of global events. Given that the theme of OxfordMUN 2025 is ‘The Spirit of Inquiry’, we think it is important to stay inquisitive about international news. From May, we will discuss three articles, with related questions to allow you to inquire about what is going on worldwide.
Friedrich Merz elected Chancellor of Germany
On May 6th, Friedrich Merz of the Christian Democratic Union was elected as the new Chancellor of Germany after a second round of parliamentary voting. Merz’s leadership comes at a time of debates over German immigration policies as well as of scrutiny over Germany’s wider international role. Merz’s first foreign trips were to Paris and Warsaw to meet the French and Polish leaders.
Some questions to think about: How does a change in leadership affect international relations? Why has Merz prioritised Germany’s European allies? What do you think Merz’s approach to Trump will be?
Read more on this topic here:
Escalating tensions between India and Pakistan
Early May saw a sudden escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, following a militant attack in Kashmir. India launched missile strikes into Pakistani territory, leading to a brief but intense four-day conflict.
On May 10th, India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire, but this truce remains fragile, as the diplomatic world attempts to navigate this delicate peace between the nuclear neighbours.
Some questions to think about: What is the role of historical tensions in the modern diplomatic landscape? Why is the threat of nuclear war so significant in this conflict?
Read more on this topic here:
Harvard International Student Ban
On May 22nd, the Trump administration announced their decision to revoke Harvard University’s ability to enroll international students. A federal judge has temporarily blocked the order, allowing Harvard to continue enrolling international students for now, but this won’t be the last we hear of this story.
The Trump administration had previously warned that the university risked losing federal funding if it failed to comply with Trump’s efforts to eliminate diversity programmes and dissolve pro-Palestine demonstrations.
Some questions to think about: What does this ban mean for free speech in universities? What are the links between academia and international relations?
Read more on this topic here: