Taipei: Day 5

As the WorldMUN 2010 conference draws to a close, the CGA delegation has the chance to reflect back on the past five days.

Those days have been filled with stimulating debate, unique cultural experiences, and fun-filled social events. Closing Ceremonies were particularly exciting for the team, as it was announced that Dan's Social Venture project was selected to be implemented. Dan's project will receive a $1500 grant and the help of a project consultant to begin implementation this year. We're all very excited for Dan and proud of his work.

As the team prepares to board the airplane for the trip back to the United States, I can honestly say this has been one of the most exciting and culturally enlightening experiences of my life, and I'm sure I can speak for the entire team when I say we're so thankful for having this opportunity.

Taipei: Social Venture

An interesting aspect of World MUN is the Social Venture Project which solicits for World MUN participants to identify a social issue and compete for funding and support to implement their proposed solution to that problem.

This year, the Coast Guard Academy's Dan Cahill has worked to implement a series of micro drip irrigation in Africa. By providing kits to individual families, Dan hopes to provide subsistence farmers with a more reliable supply of food. Today, working with a student from the University of Virginia, Dan presented his solution to the Resolution Project Board of Directors, and will find out tomorrow if his project is selected to receive funding.

Taipei: Day 4

After yesterday's single committee session, the CGA MUN team took the opportunity to get out and explore the cultural and historical centers around Taipei.

We started our adventure at the National Palace Museum, which has a collection of over 600,000 pieces of ancient Chinese artwork and artifacts. The collection spans an 8,000 year period in Chinese history, and includes pottery, bronze tools, and ancient writings.

After our trip to the National Palace Museum, we walked to the Shilin Night Market. Here the team had the opportunity to try new (and very interesting) foods, shop at the roadside vendors, and soak up some local flavor.

The World MUN conference has given the team the unique opportunity to learn about a culture significantly different than our own.

Taipei: Day 3

As the second full day of debate comes to a close, the CGA Model UN team has made considerable progress in committee.

In the WTO, Dan and Bo are weighing the implications of including environmental protection clauses in trade agreements. They're trying to stress responsibility and accountability in the international system.

In SPECPOL, Jake is fighting a battle against Cyber Warfare. Jake is pushing for an international forum to share best practices in combating the threat of non-state actors hacking into government information systems.

Outside of committee, the CGA MUN team celebrated the Lunar New Year in style at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial.

Taipei: Day 2

As dawn breaks over the mountains surrounding Taipei City, the Coast Guard Model UN team prepares to begin debate.

Yesterday, the team had the opportunity to explore Taipei, lounge by the pool, and take in some of Taiwan's ancient culture. While LCDR McSorley and Dan registered the team, Jake took the opportunity to enjoy the 75 degree weather near the pool, while Bo explored some local stores. After registration, the team traveled to Taipei 101 (the second tallest building in the world) and had the opportunity to spend some time on the 90th floor observation deck.

After a quick lunch, the team headed over to the WorldMUN 2010 opening ceremonies held in Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. The President of Taiwan was in attendance and addressed the conference. After the keynote address, a local heritage group performed a traditional Taiwanese dance.

After opening ceremonies, the team headed to the Global Village (the first of several social events planned for the week). The Global Village served as an opportunity to experience the culture of the nations in attendance, and get to know our fellow delegates.

Taipei: Day 1

The Coast Guard Model UN team has finally arrived in Taipei! After a grueling 15 hour flight from New York City, over the North Pole, and to Hong Kong followed by a short flight to Taipei, we arrived at about 9:30 pm local time (8:30 am EST) After checking in and unpacking in the hotel, it really started to sink in that we're standing halfway around the world from our home! After a much needed night of rest, the team is up and getting ready for opening ceremonies later this evening, and is looking forward to exploring the city and the rest of the island.

Taipei, The Final Countdown!

While most of the Corps of Cadets prepares for their sunny and sandy Spring Break '10 plans, the Coast Guard Academy MUN team prepares for the culminating event of our 2009-2010 school year conferences: The World Model UN Conference, held this year in Taipei, Taiwan from March 14th-18th.

Traveling to Taipei this year will be 2/c Dan Cahill, 2/c Jake Bertram, 3/c Bohdon Wowtschuk, with LCDR McSorley advising. Dan and Bohdon will be representing Argentina on the World Trade Organization while Jake represents Argentina on the Special, Political, and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL).

When the CGA MUN team isn't engaged in furious debate, they will be networking with over 2000 students from 70 countries, and exploring Taiwan's historic and natural sights.

I will be updating this blog while in Taipei, and uploading pictures from our trip, so feel free to check in from time to time. Also, check out the World MUN Website for more information!