3 January 2025, Lahore - The 21st edition of the Lahore University of Management Sciences Model United Nations (LUMUN) brought together a community of delegates inspiring thought-provoking discussions, diplomacy, and global engagement. From December 30, 2024 to January 2, 2025, the halls of LUMS once again resonated with youthful energy, enthusiasm and drive under the overall theme of "Shaping Global Perspectives Beyond Borders," demonstrating LUMUN’s potential for cultivating leadership among youth through dialogue, and actionable solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues.
At the heart of this impactful event was the strong and enduring partnership between the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and LUMS. For years, this collaboration has gone beyond just supporting events—it has played a crucial role in nurturing a community of young minds, fuelling their passion for change, and equipping them with the tools to address global challenges.
This year, UNODC led a thought-provoking Committee Session and Panel Talk centered around "Preventing Drug Abuse in Educational Settings: Fostering Cooperation and Partnerships." The session tackled the rising challenge of drug abuse among students and underscored the role of education systems, governments, and international organizations in building resilient frameworks to combat drug abuse. Delegates engaged in robust discussions, presenting policy proposals and innovative strategies that reflected their understanding of the complexities of this issue.
Over the years, UNODC has consistently provided thematic expertise, financial backing, and technical guidance to ensure that these conferences deliver positive outcomes, stimulating young minds through diplomacy and dialogue around key development challenges. This year, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Pakistan, collaborated with UNODC to support LUMUN 21, marking the largest LUMUN Conference since its inception. The event saw participation from over 1,500 delegates representing various educational institutions across Pakistan, showcasing its growing significance and impact in fostering dialogue and leadership among youth.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Syed Waqas Tirmazi, Criminal Justice and Rule of Law Coordinator, UNODC Pakistan, highlighted the importance of sustained partnerships and youth engagement. He commended the energy and commitment displayed by delegates, emphasizing how platforms like LUMUN create ripple effects far beyond the confines of conference halls. He underscored the urgency of addressing issues like drug abuse in educational settings through collective action, policy reform, and active community participation.
As the event drew to a close, the impact of LUMUN 21 promises to extend far beyond resolutions and committee outcomes through planting seeds of change in the minds of hundreds of young delegates.
Looking ahead, the legacy of LUMUN 21 will serve as a guiding light for future initiatives. The discussions, resolutions, and partnerships fostered during this conference will undoubtedly inspire continued action towards building safer, healthier, and more resilient communities in Pakistan.
