In early May, third-year students of the International Relations program at the International University of Central Asia (IUCA) — Meerim Nurgazieva, Eldana Sardarbekova, and Nazika Abralieva — participated in the Tashkent International Model United Nations Conference (TIMUN), organized by Westminster International University in Tashkent.

This year, the conference received approximately 1,200 applications, with only 400 delegates selected from countries around the world, including the United Kingdom, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Switzerland, Japan, Germany, Russia, and others. The IUCA students successfully passed the selection process and joined the international delegation. The organizers provided accommodation and meals for the delegates throughout the conference.

Each student participated in a different Model UN committee. Meerim Nurgazieva represented the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), Eldana Sardarbekova participated in UNCPD, and Nazika Abralieva worked in the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Over three days, participants engaged in committee sessions, debates, and negotiations, discussing current international issues and interacting with delegates from different countries. The conference provided the students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge of international relations in practice and strengthen their skills in diplomatic negotiation, argumentation, public speaking, and intercultural communication.

Participation in international Model UN conferences contributes to the development of IUCA students’ professional competencies, expands international academic connections, and provides valuable practical experience in multilateral diplomacy.