Another year has flown by in the blink of an eye. This year was filled with wonderful memories, laughter, tears, and a lot of hard work. Our greatest wish is that this year has been filled with laughter, happy memories, and time spent with your loved ones. We have completed the first quarter of the 21st century, and IUMUN has been with us for exactly 11 years of that quarter! Once again, with IUMUN’25 conference, IUMUN Club continued its remarkable legacy on the community. With 8 committees, more than 600 participants and countless good memories, one of the highlights of this year was of course IUMUN’25. From the very first day to the closing moments, the experience was both memorable and inspiring for everyone involved. Every motion you gave, every crush cookie you have recieved, every PR game you played, and every award you won are the will be remembered forever in our minds. The conference brought together passionate delegates, meaningful discussions, and an atmosphere that perfectly balanced serious debate with genuine enjoyment. Our delegates did their best to put up a fight and we witnessed great issues being overcome by efforts of passionate delegates. Beyond the formal debates, IUMUN’25 was also filled with moments of fun and connection. During breaks, we took time to relax, laugh, and bond with one another. We played plenty of games, shared conversations, and created memories that went far beyond the conference rooms. Hot July weather became hotter with heated debates and sparks of enjoyment! During the hottest times of the conference, the iconic IUMUN fan came to our rescue. All in all we had a great time and therefore we thank to the Academic and Organization team for all the effort they put creating this conference. All of the memorable times and unforgettable moments was your creation, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We wish all the team members who contributed to every moment of the conference and everyone who participated a happy new year. We will keep witnessing the history and shaping the future together in 2026, with you. Happy new year! -Your IUMUN Family 🍍

Since 2013, IUMUN has continued on its journey and is now hosting the best conferences across Turkey. Especially with IUMUNX last year, it truly proved itself. This progress and success were, of course, not achieved easily. The visible opportunities were only one part of the story, the hardships and limitations were always there as well. This has always been the key element that connected the entire team and the club: learning to overcome difficulties and impossibilities. In the end, we became more than just teammates. This sense of unity is something we particularly need in the admin department and other parts of the organization. When I first started, the support I felt from the people around me was the main reason I felt connected to IUMUN and the club. Knowing that people believed in me ,even when I made mistakes, motivated me even more. The excitement I felt three years ago while walking from the metro to the main campus is still the same. Back then, I couldn’t even imagine reaching this level, but now being the Deputy Director of Admin is such a special joy for me. Sharing leadership in the same team where my friends Berkan, Ceren and I once learned the ropes is a new adventure for the three of us. But I’m sure we’ll handle it with ease. I started this journey without expectations, but I’ve grown and developed by gaining many responsibilities and goals. Sometimes, looking back, it feels strange to see how much I’ve changed and how much I’ve refined my character. The conference and the club have truly helped me grow. This year, just like every year, we’ll continue with the same excitement and determination. I’ll celebrate another year of life with IUMUN. And yes, water bottles might get spilled on me again during the conference but I promise I’ll bounce back quickly! See you from July 16th to 19th. Written by Elif Bülbül

Istanbul University Model United Nations Club Fifth Mock Debate: UNSC Table of Contents 1. Introduction to the Committee 1.1. UNSC anc Topic 1.2. Rules of Procedure Regarding UNSC 2. Historical Background 2.1. Chinese Civil War 2.2. The Early Years of Cross-Strait Relations and The First Two Strait Crises 2.3. Taiwan’s Isolation and the PRC’s Rise 2.4. Current Situation 3. References 1. Introduction to committee 1.1. UNSC and Topic The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is responsible for maintaining international peace and security. It has the authority to issue resolutions, deploy peacekeeping forces, and mediate conflicts between nations. The Taiwan Strait Crisis is a geopolitical flashpoint involving the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the Republic of China (Taiwan), with major international actors like the United States, Japan, and ASEAN nations playing significant roles. The crisis involves territorial disputes, military escalation, diplomatic conflicts, and global economic repercussions. This mock debate will focus on the potential for military conflict, diplomatic solutions, and the role of the UN in addressing the crisis. Delegates must work to find peaceful solutions while considering the interests of all stakeholders. 1.2. Rules of Procedure Regarding UNSC Although almost all of the General Assembly Rules also apply to the UNSC, the committee has some of its special procedures regarding the flow of the debate. Important rules that governs the procedure goes by: UNSC exclusive motions Motion to have a party of dispute: Raised if delegates want to have a discussion with a particular party. Invited party can be almost anyone; diplomats, UN officials, an expert, or even a terrorist group's representative. The invited party has the right to decline the invitation. Motion to Declare a Substantive Voting: This motion can only be raised by a member of P5 (UK, USA, PRC, Russian Federation, France). The purpose of this motion is to turn a procedural voting into a substantive voting, which would give P5 members the right of veto. Motion to have a P5 Meeting: This motion can only be raised by a P5 member and only those states can state whether they're in favor of it. The delegate who raises the motion should specify the total time. It's used when P5 wants to have a private discussion. If all P5 states approve the motion, they leave the house accompanied by one of the chairs. Key Words Permanent Members: Permanent members of the UNSC hold permanent seats in the Security Council, having special powers like the veto power. These states are; the United States, United Kingdom, France, China and Russia. Non-permanent Members: Non-permanent members are rotating members, elected for two-year terms. Observers : Observers are not official members of the Security Council. Observers are generally included in the committee when the agenda item is highly relevant to some states, therefore making their presence is needed. Observers don't have the right to vote on substantive matters. Substantive Voting : Substantive votings are made on substantive matters like the draft resolution. If a P5 member votes in against during a substantive voting, it's considered as a veto and the voting automatically results in failing. Procedural Voting : Most of the votings are considered as procedural unless a motion to declare a substantive voting passes. For example, voting on a motion is a procedural voting. P5 members don't have the right to veto a procedural voting. Quorum : Quorum is the minimum number of members required to be present at the beginning of the session for committee to start the official session. In the UNSC; besides having the requirement of having 1/4 members present, all P5 members must be present for the official session to start. 2. Background on the Taiwan Strait Crisis 2.1. Chinese Civil War The Chinese Civil War was a protracted and bloody conflict between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), led by Mao Zedong, and the Nationalist Party (Kuomintang, KMT), led by Chiang Kai-shek. Initially, the two factions cooperated against foreign imperialist powers and warlords in China, but ideological differences led to their eventual separation and armed confrontation. The first phase of the civil war began in 1927, when Chiang Kai-shek, the leader of the KMT, launched a military campaign against the CCP in what became known as the Shanghai Massacre. This event led to an all-out war between the two factions, with the KMT establishing control over much of China while the CCP retreated into rural areas and adopted guerrilla warfare tactics. During World War II (1937-1945), both the CCP and the KMT temporarily united against Japan in the Second Sino-Japanese War. However, deep distrust remained between the two sides, and as soon as Japan was defeated in 1945, the civil war resumed with renewed intensity. With massive Soviet support, the CCP gained momentum, capturing Manchuria, major cities, and strategic territories across China. In 1949, after a series of devastating defeats, the KMT government collapsed, and Chiang Kai-shek fled to Taiwan along with two million Nationalist supporters, military personnel, and government officials. On October 1, 1949, Mao Zedong declared the establishment of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in Beijing, marking the official victory of the Communist forces. The KMT government, now based in Taipei, continued to claim sovereignty over all of China, insisting that the ROC was the legitimate Chinese government. This created a long-standing political dispute: the PRC viewed Taiwan as a breakaway province that needed to be reunified with the mainland, while the ROC considered itself the legitimate ruler of all of China, including the mainland. 2.2. The Early Years of Cross-Strait Relations and The First Two Strait Crises Following the end of the civil war, the PRC sought to invade Taiwan and complete the reunification of China. However, two major factors prevented this: First Taiwan’s strong military defenses, reinforced by remnants of the KMT army and a well-fortified coastline and second being the U.S. intervention, which aimed to prevent Communist expansion in East Asia, especially after the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. The First Taiwan Strait Crisis (1954-1955) The first major military confrontation over Taiwan occurred between 1954 and 1955, when the PRC launched an aggressive military campaign against the Taiwanese-controlled offshore islands of Kinmen and Matsu. The PRC began an intense artillery bombardment of these islands, intending to weaken Taiwan’s strategic defenses and force the ROC government into submission. In response, the United States signed the U.S.-Taiwan Mutual Defense Treaty in 1954, officially committing to Taiwan’s military protection. The U.S. deployed naval forces, including aircraft carriers, to deter a potential Chinese invasion. The crisis ended in 1955, when China ceased its bombardments, but tensions remained unresolved. The Second Taiwan Strait Crisis (1958) A few years later, in 1958, another major military escalation occurred. The PRC, once again, resumed heavy shelling of Kinmen and Matsu, hoping to drive out Taiwanese forces and demonstrate China’s military strength. Taiwan, with U.S. assistance, successfully defended its territories, and after a prolonged standoff, China withdrew its forces. During this period, the United States reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwan’s defense, warning that any attack on Taiwan itself would be met with a direct military response. However, as the Cold War progressed, the international diplomatic situation surrounding Taiwan began to shift. 2.3. Taiwan’s Isolation and the PRC’s Rise In the 1960s and 1970s, China sought to strengthen its diplomatic influence and undermine Taiwan’s international legitimacy. The PRC successfully pressured other nations to recognize it as the sole representative of China, resulting in Taiwan’s growing diplomatic isolation. The most significant diplomatic shift occurred in 1971, when the United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 2758, officially recognizing the PRC as the legitimate government of China and expelling the ROC from the UN. This meant that Taiwan lost its seat at the United Nations and most of its formal diplomatic recognition worldwide. Further reinforcing this shift, the United States, under President Richard Nixon, began normalizing relations with China, culminating in the 1979 U.S.-China Joint Communiqué. The U.S. formally switched its recognition from the ROC to the PRC and ended its official defense treaty with Taiwan. However, the U.S. did not abandon Taiwan entirely. In 1979, Congress passed the Taiwan Relations Act (TRA), which maintained strong unofficial ties between the U.S. and Taiwan. The TRA also committed the U.S. to providing Taiwan with defensive weapons and stated that any attempt to change Taiwan’s status by force would be a "grave concern" to Washington. 2.4. Third Taiwan Strait Crisis After decades of tension, the third and most dangerous Taiwan Strait Crisis erupted in 1995-1996. The crisis was triggered by Taiwan’s first democratic presidential election in 1996, which China viewed as a move toward formal independence. In response, China launched a series of missile tests and military exercises near Taiwan’s coastline as a direct threat to Taiwanese voters. This aggressive action prompted the United States to intervene, sending two aircraft carrier battle groups to the Taiwan Strait. The U.S. military presence forced China to back down, de-escalating the crisis. However, the event demonstrated that Taiwan’s democratic evolution and growing pro-independence sentiment would continue to be a red line for Beijing. 2.5. Current Situation Since the Third Taiwan Strait Crisis, tensions have remained high but manageable, with periodic military provocations from China. However, in recent years, particularly since 2022, tensions have significantly escalated due to some important actions such as: Increased Chinese military activity, including record-breaking incursions into Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). High-profile U.S. diplomatic visits to Taiwan, which China views as a violation of the One-China Policy. Strengthening U.S.-Taiwan military cooperation, including advanced arms sales and joint training exercises. However, with the Trump Administration's tariffs, there is a significant indicator that soon the US can withdraw and leave Taiwan to its fate since China has vowed to reunify Taiwan. The situation remains highly volatile, making the Taiwan Strait one of the most dangerous flashpoints in global politics today. 3. References Bush, R., & O'Hanlon, M. (2007). A War Like No Other: The Truth About China's Challenge to America. Wiley. Kissinger, H. (2011). On China. Penguin Press. Sutter, R. (2013). U.S.-China Relations: Perilous Past, Pragmatic Present. Rowman & Littlefield. United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 (1971). BBC News. (2023). "Taiwan and China: A History of Tensions." Written by Umut Işık Usluyer Rana Ece Alper

Committee: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Agenda: Effects of Climate Change on Developing Countries And Arranging Climate Finance Introduction to the Committee The most important goal of the UNFCCC is to reduce the dangerous effects of human activities on the global climate system. The most important of these is, of course, greenhouse gas emissions. The UNFCCC, which was the first agreement signed at the intergovernmental level within the scope of combating climate change, later led to the opening of the Kyoto Protocol in 1997 and the Paris Agreement in 2015. These agreements bring governments to an agreement that global warming is now a common danger for all countries in the world; they reveal the necessity of global cooperation to combat this problem and its negative effects. Introduction to the Agenda Depending on future emissions of greenhouse gases, global temperatures are likely to rise between 2 and 4 °C within the next century. The main impacts of climate change will however not be felt through higher temperatures but through a change in the hydrological cycle. Rainfall is likely to increase around the poles and the tropics while in the sub-tropics average precipitation is likely to decrease. Climate change will have an impact on all countries around the globe but developing countries are much more vulnerable to climate change than the developing world. Climate change aggravates the effects of population growth, poverty, and rapid urbanization. Also it is likely to have a significant impact on the economies of developing countries. Without adaptation and mitigation the losses are estimated to be up to 20% of GDP To minimize the impacts of climate change, adaptation in developing countries is urgently needed. If the developed countries would increase their efforts to reduce their emissions, rapidly developing countries, such as China and India, might be much more likely to join mitigation efforts. Apart from this, countries should reach to an agreement that will ensure a beneficial amount of money annually. Climate finance calls for financial assistance from Parties with more financial resources to those that are less endowed and more vulnerable. This recognizes that the contribution of countries to climate change and their capacity to prevent it and cope with its consequences vary enormously. Background of the Issue Equity demands that developed countries-the source of most past and current emissions of greenhouse gases-act first to reduce emissions. That principle is embedded in the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and in the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, which sets binding emission targets for developed countries only. With the Protocol now likely to enter into force, the focus will turn increasingly to the question of developing country emissions. There are important links between adaptation and development and one of the best adaptation strategies is probably development. Stimulating development and reducing poverty will increase the adaptive capacity of people and is likely to make them less vulnerable to climate change. In general, adaptation should be an extension of sustainable development and as such it should focus on: the growth and diversification of the economy, improving education and health, and improving disaster preparedness. Besides adaptation to climate change there are also many immediate benefits in improving the management of current climate variability in developing countries. Many poor countries are confronted with highly variable rainfall but very few systems are in place to manage this variability and prepare for the next drought and/or flood. As a solving mechanism, climate finance refers to funding and resources used to take action on climate change. This funding can come from various sources, including national governments, international organizations, private businesses and grassroots fundraising campaigns. A significant portion of the aid that should be sent to these countries is often misdirected and fails to achieve its intended purpose. It focuses on emission mitigation rather than climate adaptation, resilience and anticipatory action. Conference of the Parties (COP): Since the UNFCCC entered into force in 1994, the countries that are parties to the convention have been coming together regularly every year to participate in the Conference of the Parties, called COP. The first COP was held in Berlin, the capital of Germany, in 1995, and the third was held in Kyoto, Japan, in 1997. The most important feature of COP 3 was that the Kyoto Protocol was opened for signature at the conference. The 21st COP, held in Paris, the capital of France, resulted in the signing of the Paris Agreement, which replaced the Kyoto Protocol. This agreement was a turning point in the multilateral climate change process. During the COP15 climate summit, held in 2009, world leaders pledged to mobilize $100 billion annually in climate financing by 2020 to support climate action in developing countries. This promise was not kept. Also a new action is taken in latest conference of COP which held in Baku. Ministers unveiled a new financial goal: at least 300 billion annually by 2035. Main Issues Especially 6 countries affects from climate change: Brazil, China, India, Mexico, South Africa, and Turkey. Also Conflict and climate-affected countries receive 66% less climate financing per capita than non-conflict countries. While their circumstances vary widely, these countries share common concerns that have motivated actions resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions growth. Primary among these concerns are economic growth, unexpected weather conditions, and rapid urbanization. Economic Growth: - Funding for adaptation and poverty reduction in these countries should be ensured and promises should be kept with making a fair climate finance. Federal agencies, NGO’s, organizations should support decision-makers. Unexpected Weather Conditions: In these countries extreme weather conditions and sea level rises affect the people especially in agricultural and coastal regions. -Climate driven floods threatens the security of societies because of the lack of early warning systems. - Unpredictable heats shifts the balance of ecosystem and decreases the surpluses of productions. This leads to poverty. Rapid Urbanization: - With the effects of climate change industrialization and other activities are contributing urban populations to increase rapidly. Especially in developing countries it brings the most terrible results in air quality and with that human health. Questions to be Answered How can the governments can find a common point to decide on climate finance properly and how can it be binding for developed countries?  How can the amount for climate finance can be directed to developing countries without mis-directions? How can the results of unexpected weather conditions can be solved in developing countries in order to improve economic growth?  What are the possible solutions in order to decrease the effects of rapid and unstoppable urbanization? What is the reason of developed countries for repeating the same problem and being unable to take an action for a decided action for years? Do you think there is a conflict between the decisions and their policies?  How can organizational bodies contribute more to increase the economic growth in developing countries and which suggestions can be made?  Does your country think it would be enough to use new technologies that ensures countries to diversify in agricultural products to close the gap in economic growth and how can it be financed? (such as new greenhouse farming systems, irrigation developments that enables to produce different plants in a region which is actually not suitable for them) References Chai, Kuan-Cheng “The impact of climate change on population urbanization: Evidence from china” https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/environmental-science/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2022.945968/full IRC Team, “Why is Climate Finance So Important?” https://www.rescue.org/eu/article/why-climate-finance-so-important Ludwig, Fulco “Climate Change Effects on Developing Countries” https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/etudes/join/2007/393511/IPOL-ENVI_ET(2007)393511_EN.pdf NOAA Team, “COP29 U.N. climate summit comes to conclusion: Our top 6 highlights” https://www.noaa.gov/news/cop29-un-climate-summit-comes-to-conclusion-our-top-6-highlights#:~:text=COP29%20convened%20representatives%20from%20nearly,adaptive%20capacity%2C%20integrating%20nature%2Dbased Written by Selinay ÇETİN

Belonging is such a beautiful thing. And not belonging… well, it just feels bad. Whether we are aware of it or not, each of us wants to be connected to something. A person, a place, a community. Some of us are open about it but, some of us carry that feeling quietly, deep inside. I’m not trying to be dramatic here, my dear friends, but aren’t we made of feelings after all? Sure, we’re not made of glass, but we’re not carrying a stone inside our chest either. That’s why I want to talk a little bit about what it feels like to open a new chapter in life, the uncertainty of what it may bring, and the creeping excitement hidden in that uncertainty. Being a “ participant ” in something is one thing. But becoming a “ part ” of it? That’s something entirely different. And that’s a difference we need to understand. If you already feel like you are a part of IUMUN, then I’m sure you have understood everything I’ve said so far and you will understand what I’ll say next. But I’d like to speak to the ones who are still wondering, “What kind of summer is waiting for me this year?” Yes, you. Hello there. So, where was I? Ah, yes. New chapters. You’re about to start one. And right now, you have no idea who you are going to work with, laugh with, or share stress with. No idea how many people you will meet. Not yet. The people you thought were so annoying on the first day, they will be the ones you hug with tears in your eyes on the last day. You will find friendships you didn’t see coming. That moment you step into the building and think, “Will they accept me?” before you know it, you’ll be right in the middle of something that feels like a huge, warm family. Maybe you will even fall in love with someone, don't ask me how I know. You will have fun, you will be stressed. But in the end, IT DOESN’T EVEN MATTER ♪♫…(ok...sorry...my inner linkin park fan kicked in..) But in the end, when you look around and see those people smiling with you through your sweet exhaustion, you will realize it was all worth it. And if you want it, really want it, you will not just be a “ participant ” in IUMUN. You’ll always be a part of it. But when? When will I come to feel like I’m not just a participant, but truly a part of this family? You won’t “ realize ” it. That’s all it is. A leap of faith. See you this summer. Your friendly neighbourhood journalist. Written by Mert Lakot

Being in a team might sounds like a cool, motivative or integrated thing. Going on a road all together, moving forward together to the same goal together… But what if everyone is on that ship, and you're in another wave? What if you're standing still while the team moves forward, or sinking in from the inside out?   Loneliness is not just a physical distance; it is an invisible emptiness that is sometimes felt in the most crowded environments.   That thinking made me write this blog post or for me, a letter with no receiver. Sometimes thinking like this makes you feel like eating inside out. But you can’t actually stop thinking like this. There's always this feeling inside you and it's getting bigger and mightier. So let’s get on to talk about what is inside me or who realizes when they read this.   1.The Ship’s Crew and being in the Crew   It differs from entering into a room versus attaining space within that room. Likewise, there could exist a fundamental disconnect between membership on a team versus truly "feeling as though belonging" Appropriately to said team.   At other times you involve yourself in a team, hello 's are directed toward you, your name becomes familiar, even take a break together for a coffee. But you still feel from the inside out that you're not quite there. Like you're there as a body, and your soul is behind you by one step. You can't engage in dialogue, your voice will tremble when you say an idea, or you'd just rather not say it at all. Because you feel you won't be heard, or you won't be seen. And then, suddenly, loneliness begins right among people.   Belonging is being more than part of a group. Belonging; from a glance, wordless approval, someone said, "What do you think?" he thinks through the warmth that occurs when he asks. Belonging blossoms with a sense of trust. And trust is established in action, not in words.   When the majority of people say "teamwork", they are only thinking of the production part of the job. Who does what, when. But teaming is not just working together; teaming is also falling together, thinking together and shutting up together when the time is required. If the team space is not opened up within the team, individuals close down to themselves. And this silence unfortunately makes an individual feel useless in the long term.   Sometimes it is almost like belonging when a person merely says, "What do you think about this?" he starts. A small sentence dispels an enormous loneliness. And one really feels that he is there at the time.   2.Everyone Has A Different Storm   Although being together seems to mean moving towards one destination, we each really do have different internal hurricanes. Even if you think you are on the same road outside, your travels within are different. We are all on the same boat, but half of us are battling the sea, half are battling the winds.   As you walk through the team, the way some of them are projected on the outside is firmer and happier than you ever imagined. When the whole team is stuck on a problem collectively, that person solves and offers contributions nearly without trying. But one step back, that individual is probably fighting an interior emptiness. He may feel lost. Maybe when he's laughing with a crowd outside, he's trying to hide the nervousness he has inside, feeling isolated.   And you. you are fighting war with yourself too. Maybe no one understands. Maybe you don't even fit on the team so well. When everyone else near you is charging ahead, your own walls in here are retarding you. "How am I going to catch up like that?" you're thinking, but there isn't anyone listening for your words. And you're smiling outside, but inside, the hurricane is increasing second by second.   While all the members of the team look at each other, there is a veiled truth: all are on the brink of a psychological collapse but refuse to utter a word. No one is ready to put the emotional burden on the team. Because that contradicts the fear of seeming weak. Everyone seems to be showing off their strength and endurance, but actually there is a struggle that nobody really cares about, that he is fighting alone. And this struggle is largely a solo journey.   But here one thing is quite important: the storm need not be outside, but at times within us. The outer role of being a team member at times makes a human being overlook his inside person.. While we expect to conquer the challenges together as a team, at times we forget that each one of us goes through this storm at different rates and in different ways.   Some heal quicker, adjust quicker. But some emotionally pull back at each minor problem. While they run towards goals together, there is something that every one of them is lost in: their own emotional needs. We forget this the majority of the time. Because we are under pressure to be on the team, to be hardened on the outside.   But the truth is: every storm comes to an end eventually. Loneliness, pessimism and loss are also transient feelings. The strength of a team not only grows by staying together, but also by embracing each other's inner storms. Because at the end of the day, everyone may be having a different fight on their hands, but as a team, we can conquer this fight together. When we are lonely, perhaps we should talk to one another. A soft "I'm here" is all it takes to make the first step.   3. The Truth Behind the Masks One of the most invisible aspects of teamwork is that sometimes people only greet each other on the surface with their identities. Working together, sharing success, achieving goals. these are the common ground of teams. But the deepest truth is that each one has to find some balance between the identity he presents outward and the reality he lives Decently in his inner world. And at times the balance is so precarious that wearing the mask within becomes obligatory.   In a group, all members are meant to look strong and sturdy. To be "weak" or "in need of assistance" can be considered some sort of shortcoming in one's head. So, people, even at their weakest point, feel a sense of obligation to look strong, positive and problem-solving from the outside. They hide their current emotional collapse, fatigue, worry or loneliness inside. Being a member of a team sometimes involves wearing masks.   Being behind the mask is a way of not just appearing, but also of carrying burdens emotionally. I feel fine, it's okay" is the only thing with which you can support the team, however hard you are at that time. But gradually, it becomes too much to bear this mask. Weakness within you builds up gradually. One day you begin to think that this mask is not you anymore. Once you begin to feel like that, hollowness inside sets in. Because the person appearing strong on the surface feels hollow inside.   Assisting each other in some teams becomes more than about performance. Real assistance starts with removing the masks. Genuine bonding really comes from sharing vulnerabilities. Being able to show each other our "weak" sides provides real solidarity. Yet this does not get seen. Because everyone wears a mask, show only their strengths and get frazzled to help others.   Masks, though, are not just a defense we show the world but also the way we defend. Sometimes beneath the mask, we do not know who we are anymore. The daily smiling in the same way, giving in the same way, being tough in the same way, dulls our real self with time. Our inner self must struggle with the personae on the outside. In your case, loneliness becomes even more profound because no one sees the real you.   Even in a team where team bonding is good, people may leave each other alone. Because no one wants to explore anyone's wells of emotion. Everyone is entitled to wear masks, but the masks hide how lonely people are, how many inner wars they are waging. Behind the masks, each and every one of them wages some sort of war on their own path. But no one, no matter how powerful the masks are, pays attention to these wars. And that is when he takes a step back, eases away silently.   What is lacking most in a team is being a real human being. I want someone to pull off your mask and say, "How are you really?" for him to inquire, to desire to glimpse the world behind the mask, this is the moment to establish a true bond. Because true bonds are established on the acceptance of the vulnerabilities within. It can be seen with one another in a team not only through your play, but emotionally, but only through honest dialogue.". If everyone just continues to stare at each other with masks, there will be no harmony whatsoever in the team. When everybody is trying to be strong and flawless, something most precious gets lost: Humanity.   These three parts was the description of the journey from me to myself. I want to end my letter by giving some advice-like things. But you may think that who am I to give advice to you. I am just a man of faith in my own. So firstly, I want to say that be curious, not judgmental. Ask about people who are near you be curious about them, it can make you even more closer to each other and strengthen the crew’s bound between. Second, don’t be afraid to believe in people. Belief… The most important thing in the life… No matter what happens believe in people around you. They are here for you. Thank you all for reading. I believe you have what it takes to live a life in a way you wanted but if not… See you in another life brothers and sisters. Written by Enes Pehlivan

Ok, here is the thing. I might not be an organization member but I sure know how to have fun (not that IUMUN is lacking fun of course– this isn't about that). But here is the issue I'm having: not enough 2010's iconic  songs are playing at the socials.  You might say "Girl, you are a DSG, just do your academy thing" but hear me out. Literally at every social or coffee breaks, I just hear recent pop songs. Sure, they are fun. But I think everyone would agree when I say that we mostly grew up with those 2010's bangers and always imagined ourselves vibing hard  to those songs. Why aren't we turning that idea to reality?  Sprinkle current pop to the socials every now and then, sure. But like, why isn't playing some Pitbull bangers more a thing? Am I missing something?  For example, Pitbull will always  be a legend. Everyone knows a lot of his songs without knowing. Again: Pitbull. Will. Always. Be. A. Banger. And without exception, almost everyone will have fun when it's played. I strongly believe that it would be a whole vibe if we had the classics you know. I'm talking about "Like a G6" "Thrift Shop" "Scream & Shout" etc. the classics .  Hear me, put songs like these to the playlists more and you won't be disappointed. 2010's pop songs are it .  You can take notes from my playlist . I rest my case. Written by Rana Ece Alper

Also known as; how it feels being the muse of the Turkish MUN scene. Usually, when people are participating in an MUN conference, they train for diplomacy, debates, or how to tie a tie. I train for making carousels at 2 AM because unfortunately, the Instagram algorithm waits for no one. Leading the creative team for IUMUN is like being in an intense love triangle between Illustrator and Photoshop. Chaos, passion, blood, sweat, tears. There’s me, squinting 3 millimeters away from my screen at a font size difference no one will notice. The creative process starts the way all great things do;  with the vaguest draft possible.  “We need to post something for this  or that. ”  From there, it’s texting the Marcom group (sending love, Defne and Efe), finding the guideline we made ages ago in my files, and trying to turn it into the coolest thing ever. We aim for serious-but-interesting, professional enough but still fun. I sometimes like to complain about the process a little, then some people say: “Why not use AI then?” AI design is clean, yes. But also cold, lifeless. That’s not what we need for IUMUN. Our visuals need a heartbeat, a pulse, a joke sometimes, hidden in the alt text. AI doesn’t know what it feels like to export something with the wrong ratio three times and not realize, and still try to export for the fourth time with love. I do. (Hi Beyza! This section was for you!) Another thing we battle? People who take, let’s say, ‘inspiration’ from us. Don’t get me wrong, inspiring people is literally the reason we do this. But sometimes, the inspirations are a bit too-familiar. There’s something bittersweet about a layout I spent an entire afternoon tweaking to show up in a different account, miraculously with the same text placement and color scheme. To be perfectly fair, after 25k people see your post and it racks up hundreds of thousands of views for your account, you stop caring about the competition. There’s only one winner after all.  Design isn’t just decoration for us, it’s how we communicate who we are before we even utter a word. IUMUN’s feed isn’t just some posts, it’s what we are. It’s our personality. Every color says something, every caption is a conversation. So when it all comes together, when the grid looks like freshly baked bread out of the oven, and someone mentions; “This post made me want to apply.” , suddenly, every late night export, every font decision, every existential crisis over line spacing feels worth it. Until, of course, someone messages:  “Hey, didn’t we have this post due tomorrow?” Written by Neva Öztürk

If you had told me a few years ago that I would be leading the IUMUN’25 organization team as the Director General, I probably wouldn't have believed you . But here I am, in the thick of it, late-night messages, countless to-do lists, and never ending planning. It’s been a journey, and I want to take you behind the scenes. IUMUN Club and its people truly change you for the better, it is a commitment you want to say yes to even if it looks scary. How I got this role is kind of a funny one, I have learned that I was the Director General and over night, it became my reality. It's not that I didn't want this or wasn't expecting it, in the end I was trusted with this responsibility by our executives and, I am forever grateful. Though leading a large organization team is scary and exhausting, it comes with a lot of good things. What made me say yes? Well, I have been an organization member countless times and I loved being a part of a team. Working and moving together was easy, getting work done was satisfactory. Now, having experienced that, I trust myself to lead my dream team. My desire is for every member to feel they are a part of something big and good, something that can provide even the smallest change for the world. What you don't see behind the scenes is a precious group of people, all chosen and trusted by me to work together to make this year's conference better than ever. Late nights of work, lots of meetings, agendas, to-do's...you name it, we have probably done it. You will get to know all of them soon, and I hope you will cherish them as much as I do. Being best at what they do, you can also trust them to be at your service! Dear team, I will give you a special thanks at the end but for now, thank you for being a part of this. Let's talk about more technical aspects of it, more planning comes after creating the team. Financial preparations, sourcing materials and visiting printing houses, estimating attendee numbers, handling logistics... Yes, it's a lot of work, on top of directing others so the job is done correctly and on time. To be honest, you get used to this routine and it becomes part of your daily chores. But a Director General doesn't do all the work, doesn't need to. You are an element of the job, your main responsibility is to create a road map on how and when things should get done, then to follow through on the process. Department heads already (and should!) know what they need to do, and should trust each other enough so the whole process is successful. This is also another responsibility for the leader, creating a safe space where everyone can trust each other and thrive. Easier said than done. Everyone looking for your approval can be scary and overwhelming, you have these almost daily thoughts of ''One's mistake is your mistake.'' or ''You should have seen it before it happened, actually it shouldn't have happened.'' Mistakes happen, deadlines are due, you have to choose one thing or another. You didn't write down what you were thinking of? Now it's lost in the depths of your mind, until it's not in the middle of the night and you jump out of bed. But like so many other things, this is a responsibility too, and you want to do your best, that's why it matters so much, I think. This is where you should have a clear balance of empathy and collaboration. We are all human, we do this both because of our personal and collective gains. My aim should always be to uplift, to be of help and guide others and in return my expectations are commitment, responsibility and care. It's never a one sided relationship when you are a team. You give a lot and gain a lot, I think it's beautiful. Learning to be a leader and still have a lot to learn, I invite everyone patient enough to read this personal yet informative (Hopefully!) text to get involved in some sort of organization or team even if it's not an MUN conference. No one really tells you what it’s like to organize an entire event until you’re in the middle of it. What it's really like to organize IUMUN'25? It is hard, time consuming, stressful but also fun, valuable and a journey. I am learning more about leadership, people, and myself than I ever expected. But when you do it, it will be and feel different. That's the beauty of it! Behind the scenes of IUMUN'25, there is one sentimental girl who wants nothing but the best, there are hardworking directors, members, executives who are carefully planting seeds of flowers that will bloom in July.  Every member of mine is precious, and for our future leaders: You have been a part of this before, listen to your gut, you have what it takes to do this. For your efforts and sincerety, I am forever grateful for you: Public Relations Team members and Damla, Şebnem & Beril, Administrative Staff Team members and Berkan, Elif & Ceren, Logistics Team members and Sena & Kaan, Press Team members and Yakup, Burak & Ceren, Media, the one man team Eren, Journalist Team members and Mert & Sena, Marcom Team members and Neva & Defne, Business Team members and Umut & Edanur, Finance Team members and Emir & Beril, IT Team members and Esad And the executive team, especially Hür and Serra, for assisting me whenever I need, thank you. ♡ If you came this far, again, thank you. Hoping to see you in July  16-19th! Written by Beyza Nur Kodalak