CISSMUN 2026
Information and photos provided by Geography & Liberal Arts Teacher, Assistant Head - Upper School, Mr Hodgkin and Economics Teacher, Head of Economics Ms Law
The world is a village, and at Dulwich International High School Programme Suzhou, our students are learning how to take their place within it.
CISSMUN 2026 brought together students from different nations, cultures, and backgrounds, creating a shared space for dialogue, cooperation, and negotiation in the spirit of the United Nations. More than a conference, it was an opportunity for DHSZ students to practise what it means to engage with the world thoughtfully, respectfully, and confidently.
Engaging with the World Through Dialogue
At the heart of CISSMUN lies the UN principle of open dialogue. Representing assigned countries, students stepped into global perspectives beyond their own, debating real-world challenges through negotiation rather than confrontation. In doing so, they experienced internationalism not as an abstract idea, but as an active practice, one that requires listening, empathy, and a willingness to understand different viewpoints.
For DHSZ students, engaging in sustained debate in English with peers from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds was both demanding and empowering. Through meticulous preparation, careful listening, and resilience under pressure, they rose to the challenge with openness and confidence.
Confidence Across Cultures
Aligned with the DHSZ mission for students to “Grow in Dulwich and Thrive in Life,” CISSMUN 2026 played a significant role in developing students’ confidence to participate in global conversations. Whether navigating formal debate procedures or responding to spontaneous Points of Information, students demonstrated courage in expressing ideas clearly and respectfully in an international setting.
This confidence was not limited to performance. It reflected a deeper readiness to engage with the world, one built through risk-taking, collaboration, and the ability to communicate across differences.
Global Citizenship in Practice
CISSMUN 2026 was also a celebration of global citizenship. Beyond debate sessions, students formed friendships, renewed old connections, and built new ones across schools and countries. These relationships reinforced the idea that international understanding grows not only through discussion of global issues, but also through shared experiences and mutual respect.
As students left the conference, they carried with them broadened perspectives, strengthened communication skills, and a clearer sense of their role within a global community.
Student Reflections
Doris H reflected on the intensity and impact of the experience:
The CISSMUN experience was both memorable and exhausting, as it allowed us to represent our assigned countries on a global stage while actively engaging in solving existing challenges and issues. Throughout the process, I became more confident and courageous, developing stronger communication skills and a deeper understanding of international cooperation.
For Max L, a seasoned participant, CISSMUN remained a space for continual growth:
This is actually my seventh MUN conference, and the best thing about MUN is that you can always learn something new. During the conference, I met some old friends and got to know some new ones as well. I also improved my confidence through collaboration with other delegates and by making dozens of POIs. I really look forward to attending more conferences in the future, possibly as a chair.
As DHSZ students carry these experiences forward, CISSMUN 2026 stands as a clear expression of Truly International. Through authentic engagement with global issues, meaningful cross-cultural interaction, and confident communication in an international context, students are developing the mindset and skills needed to contribute thoughtfully to an interconnected world, both within DHSZ and far beyond it.
