Azerbaijan will host the first international model UN conference

The International Youth Dialogue Platform (IYDP), with the support of Azerbaijan's Ministry of Science and Education, will host the inaugural Karabakh University Model United Nations Conference — KUMUN 2026 — from May 29 to 31 in Khankendi. The conference will be held at Karabakh University and will operate entirely in English.

Eligibility

• Applications are open to both national delegates (participants from Azerbaijan) and international delegates (participants from other countries)
• International delegates are responsible for covering their own travel costs to and from Azerbaijan
• The conference welcomes first-time delegates as well as experienced MUN participants
• Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis — early submission is strongly encouraged ahead of the April 15 deadline

Programme Dates and Location

• Conference dates: May 29–31, 2026
• Venue: Karabakh University, Khankendi
• Round-trip transportation between Baku and Khankendi will be provided for all delegates
• Airport transfers are not included

Fields of Study

KUMUN 2026 is open to students and young people with an interest in diplomacy, international law, global governance and development. The conference will simulate proceedings across four committees:

• United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
• United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
• International Court of Justice (ICJ)
• Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)

Programme Benefits

Delegates who are selected to participate will gain:

• Hands-on experience in diplomacy, negotiation and public speaking
• Critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving skills developed through high-stakes simulations
• Exposure to an international environment where regional and global issues are debated
• The opportunity to experience Azerbaijani culture, cuisine and hospitality firsthand
• Lasting connections with peers from across the world

Inclusions

The organising committee will provide the following for all delegates at no cost:

• Accommodation throughout the conference
• All meals during the conference period
• Conference materials
• Round-trip transportation between Baku and Khankendi

Note: International delegates are responsible for their own travel to and from Azerbaijan. Airport transfers are not included.

Application Process

• Application deadline: April 15, 2026
• Contact: kumun@iydp.org