2025 Conference
- Conference Information
- Student Organizers
- Register Today!
- Student Responsibilities & FAQs
- Conference Merch
Conference Information
Please join us on 17-19 March, 2025* at UNIS and in the UN General Assembly Hall for Beyond the Algorithm: Navigating the Future of Artificial Intelligence
*Tentative 2025 dates.
This year’s conference theme, Beyond the Algorithm: Navigating the Future of Artificial Intelligence, will explore the impact of AI advancements on global challenges through insightful discussion and debate. As AI technology becomes increasingly accessible, it brings both transformative potential and ethical concerns around its responsible use. The conference will delve into AI’s influence across critical areas, including education, cybersecurity, employment, conflict, the arts, health, misinformation, environmental sustainability, sports, and more.
How to get involved in the conference
- A BYTE of Innovation: Student Impact Projects and Speeches
- Student Debate
- Cultural Showcase
- Workshops
- Visiting Student Working Paper Contributions
A BYTE of Innovation: Student Impact Projects and Speeches
This year, we're excited to introduce: “A BYTE of Innovation: Student Impact Projects and Speeches” for the first time! To encourage students to engage personally with the conference theme, we invite them to develop their own AI projects and submit them for a chance to present and discuss their work with fellow young innovators in the United Nations General Assembly Hall.
Students should create projects that use Artificial Intelligence to accelerate positive change in their communities. The Student Impact Project should harness AI to drive meaningful, positive change at the school, local, national, or global level. Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Designing an AI-powered language learning app for younger children.
- Using AI to analyze and address environmental challenges in your local area.
- Creating AI-assisted artwork or a series of short films exploring a social issue.
You have the option to work individually or in small groups. Those who develop and implement the most innovative projects will have the opportunity to present them at the United Nations General Assembly in front of more than 600 international students. The projects that are not selected to be presented at the UN will be featured on the UNIS-UN website and recognized for their impact.
We encourage participants to document their journey with photos and videos, reflect deeply on their impact, and push creative boundaries. This is your chance to use AI to spark real change and inspire others to do the same!
After completion of Conference Registration: Advisors will receive an application form to share with students to apply for the Student Impact Project. Students will be asked to submit a 3-minute video outlining their project, explaining how they used AI in creating positive change in their communities, and describing how they would present this project at the UNGA. From these submissions, we will select the most impactful and interesting projects. These projects will be presented live by the student creators during the conference at the UN. Videos can be submitted to info@unis-un.org School advisors must be copied on the email.
The deadline to apply and submit your 3-minute video outlining your A BYTE of Innovation Impact Project is January 24th, 2025.
Student Debate
Visiting school students will have the opportunity to participate in a student debate on an AI-related motion. Two students will argue in favor of the motion, while two will argue against it. Students interested in participating must submit a three-minute video explaining their interest in debating and provide evidence supporting or opposing the motion.
After completion of Conference Registration: Advisors will receive an application form for students to apply for the debate. The form will include information such as the debate motion, a brief description of the topic with guiding considerations, and a section for submitting the three-minute video. Students interested in participating should submit a three (3) minute video demonstrating their debate skills. The video should be submitted to info@unis-un.org before January 24, 2025. Students should copy their advisor when submitting their videos. The four strongest candidates will be selected to debate at the United Nations General Assembly in front of more than 600 international students!
The deadline to apply for the Student Debate is January 24th, 2025.
Cultural Showcase
The Cultural Showcase offers a unique opportunity to promote cultural appreciation among students from around the world attending the conference. This is your chance to share a tradition, ritual, song, dance, or any aspect of your country’s heritage.
After completion of Conference Registration: Advisors will receive a form to indicate your school’s participation, type of performance and any items needed for your performance, such as microphones, chairs, or speakers.
The deadline to apply to perform at the Cultural Showcase is February 20th, 2025.
Workshops
Our workshops, hosted by UNIS student organizations, allow visiting students to deepen their understanding of this year's conference topic. Each workshop will explore and discuss a different facet of Artificial Intelligence and then include an interactive portion. Students will participate in two workshops held at UNIS.
After completion of Conference Registration: Advisors will receive a form with choices and descriptions of all available workshops. Together with your advisor, please indicate first, second, and third choices for participation.
Visiting Student Working Paper Contributions
For this upcoming UNIS-UN conference, we are looking forward to including articles and multimedia created by students from visiting schools in the working paper. We want your contributions to make this year’s conference better than ever before!
The working paper is a roughly 50-page physical memento of the conference and an online document that contains articles, infographics, and multimedia pieces related to the subtopics of the conference.
- Articles are short (800-1000 words) research papers relating to a specific conference subtopic. Please note that these articles are solely research-based and do not involve any opinion-making or in-depth analysis; these articles aim to share research findings with conference participants to ensure that the conference is as informative as possible
- Multimedia elements include: poems, artwork (digital or a clear image of painting/drawing/sculpture/etc), photographs, animation, short film, or any other creative media
For this working paper, each subtopic relates to Artificial Intelligence. This year’s subtopics and guiding questions can be found here: Subtopics and Guiding Questions
Writing an article or creating a media piece for UNIS-UN allows you to take part in another facet of the conference, having your work published in a physical paper for all of the conference guests to see. It is also an opportunity to become more informed about the world around you. Additionally, students who are selected to contribute to the working paper will be assigned an editor from UNIS, presenting another occasion for students from visiting schools and UNIS to connect and interact.
Please keep in mind that not all articles or multimedia can be chosen to be published in the physical working paper. However, articles and media that are not included in the physical working paper will be published on the UNIS-UN website.
For reference, here is a digital copy of a previous working paper: 2023-24 Working Paper
After completion of Conference Registration: a form will be shared with visiting school advisors to share with students so they can submit their articles or multimedia pieces that relate to a specific AI subtopic.
The deadline for Visiting Schools to submit their articles or media for the Working Paper is January 24th, 2025.
New York Experiences (paid)
UN Tour
We’re excited once again this year to be able to offer visiting schools the opportunity to take a guided tour of the UN Headquarters during conference days at a special UNIS discounted rate of $15.00 per person. Participants will visit the General Assembly Hall, the Security Council Chamber, the Trusteeship Council Chamber, and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Chamber (subject to meeting schedules) while learning about the history and mission of the Organization. Tours will take place on Tuesday, March 18th and Wednesday, March 19th, 2025. Tours will start at around 4:15 p.m., and will last around 1 hour. Availability is limited. Tickets are available on a first come first served basis.
On the conference registration sign-up form due February 21st, you can indicate the number of participants from your school and which day you would like the tour to be on, and complete the payment processes.
Brooklyn Nets Game
For the second year in a row we are pleased to offer visiting students a chance to experience an NBA (National Basketball Association) game! Tickets are on a first come first serve basis.
WHO: Atlanta Hawks vs. Brooklyn Nets
WHERE: Barclays Center
WHEN: Sunday, March 16th, 6.00PM
PRICE: $30 per seat
On the conference registration sign-up form due February 21st, you can indicate the number of participants from your school who would like to attend and complete the payment processes.
Student Organizers
UNIS-UN Co-Chairs 2024-2025
Celine Teunissen '24
Celine Teunissen is a senior at the United Nations International School (UNIS) in the IB Diploma program. Originally from the Netherlands, she grew up in New York City and has attended UNIS since kindergarten. This is Celine’s fourth year as a member of UNIS-UN, having previously served on the Organizing Committee and then the Executive Visiting Schools Committee. She is adamant that UNIS-UN is truly a unique platform where schools come together to engage in crucial conversations on global issues. As Co-Chair for the 2025 conference, Celine is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the spirit of the conference, which she believes is deeply rooted in the dissemination of diverse opinions, thoughts, and ideas, as well as in fostering connections between visiting schools. Outside of UNIS-UN, she is an avid reader and cyclist, with her favorite book being Honor by Thrity Umrigar. Celine is excited to pursue a degree in economics and international relations in the coming years.
Hahnah Hochman '25
Hahnah Hochman is a junior at the United Nations International School in New York City. She has attended UNIS since first grade and has participated in UNIS-UN since freshman year as a member of the Speakers Organizational and Executive Committees. She is thrilled to be expanding her role in UNIS-UN as Co-Chair for the 2025 conference. Hahnah strongly believes that UNIS-UN is a powerful venue for international youth to engage in meaningful discussion and effect concrete change. Beyond UNIS-UN, Hahnah is fluent in English and conversational in Spanish and Mandarin. She hopes to use these language skills to pursue a career in developmental economics and global politics. Hahnah is a passionate soccer player and a dedicated reader. She loves to spend time in nature with her two German Shepherds.
Along with our Co-Chairs, six student led committees collaborate to plan the conference.
Committee Co-Heads
Speakers: Maya Athias, Nora Levine Strand, & Sarina Saluja
Visiting Schools: Suhani Bhatt & Hugo Illemassene
Logistics: Abigail Faessen & Rafi White
Editing: Lissy Vinocur & Dora Dulge
Tech: Corinne Massey & Alex Jiang
Finance: Latricia Aaron & Ulysse Rombaux Perez
Register Today!
Student Responsibilities & FAQs
Etiquette at the United Nations
Within United Nations premises, all persons are required to comply with safety and security regulations, as well as the rules and procedures of the organization. Any act that disrupts the normal functioning of the organization’s programmatic activities, such as public displays of any form, including, but not limited to, clothing, banners, placards or other written or visual means, as well as vocal/audio sounds, gatherings, or demonstrations of any kind, including passive, is not allowed.
All individuals present on the United Nations premises are expected to fully cooperate with United Nations security officers at all times. Refusal to comply with applicable regulations may result in temporary detention or removal from or denial of access to the premises in accordance with Section 10 of the United Nations Headquarters Agreement and ST/AI/2019/5, entitled “Authority of United Nations Security Officers”.
Have questions?
Email us at info@unis-un.org.
Code of Conduct
Core Values
The United Nations International School (UNIS) is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students and individuals attending the 2023 UNIS-UN Conference on Tuesday, 14 March and Wednesday, 15 March. Such an environment precludes behaviors that are disrespectful of, and physically and/or emotionally harmful to, others. All participants play an important role in maintaining these standards to ensure that the Conference runs uninterrupted and successfully.
UNIS expects all conference attendees to treat one another with respect, and to interact (electronically or otherwise) honestly, politely, and appropriately. Before acting, participants are reminded to consider how their communications—whether through words, appearances, actions, or otherwise—do not (negatively) impact others.
UNIS believes that open communication is integral to fostering a culture of responsibility, accountability, and positive peer relationships. Should participants have any questions about UNIS’s expectations, or if they are concerned about another participant’s conduct, they should contact: Zakaria Baha, Director of Student Activities at zbaha@unis.org or call (212) 584-3026.
Behavior Code
The following rules are to be observed without change or exception by all students.
- Students are not to bring food, drinks, candy, gum, etc. into the General Assembly Hall at any time during the conference.
- Students are not to touch, tamper with, or remove any microphone, earplugs, country plates, or materials that have not been distributed by UNIS. Do not touch any United Nations equipment.
- Students are representing their schools and the UNIS community. Please act accordingly. Behave with courtesy and self-control. Do not leave your valuables unattended.
- Clean up after yourselves. Do not leave papers, booklets, or any other materials at the country desks. Students will be kept back at the end of the conference if this rule is not complied with.
- Remember that there will be many dignitaries present at the conference on both days, so be respectful and thoughtful of all personnel and staff. Always be polite.
- Cellular phones are NOT permitted in the General Assembly Hall.
- Do not bring laptops to the Conference.
- Smoking is strictly prohibited in the United Nations building. Any student found smoking anywhere in the building or on United Nations grounds will face serious consequences.
- Students are to return to the General Assembly Hall after lunch, at the specified time.
- Students must sit in their assigned seat, and follow all instructions given by ushers and advisors.
- Any students who are found to be acting in violation of these guidelines may be removed from the conference, and will face disciplinary consequences.
Dress Code
Every year, students from around the world meet for two days in the General Assembly of the United Nations to participate in the UNIS/UN conference. The Student Organization Committee feels that the attire worn by each individual should reflect the level of integrity, which is synonymous with the conference.
Please do not wear any of the following on either day of the UNIS/UN Conference:
- Jeans, Sneakers, Hats, Keds, or moccasins or
- Baggy or ripped clothing
- Sweatpants or athletic attire
- Tight, revealing clothing or see-through clothing
Students should wear western business attire.
It is also suggested that students carry only small bags, NO large bags will be permitted, as it will make security a lengthy procedure. Do not bring backpacks.
Consequences for Misconduct
Should UNIS determine that any participant has violated the UNIS-UN Code of Conduct, acted inconsistently with its spirit or purpose, or otherwise negatively interfered with the UNIS-UN program or its mission, that individual may be precluded from further participation in all UNIS-UN sessions and activities and may be subject to other consequences, as determined appropriate by UNIS. Additionally, the actions of others connected with the participant (e.g., parents or others in the participant’s home) may warrant limitations or removal from UNIS-UN and other consequences, as determined appropriate by UNIS.
Disclosure to member schools
Planning For The Conference
- Can an individual register for the conference?
- Do I have to be affiliated with a school?
- Is the conference in person or online?
- How do I register to come to the conference?
- Where do I find the schedule?
- COVID-19 protocols:
- What do I wear?
- What is security like at the UN?
- Can I suggest a speaker for the conference?
- Finding Accommodation
Can an individual register for the conference?
Do I have to be affiliated with a school?
Is the conference in person or online?
How do I register to come to the conference?
Where do I find the schedule?
COVID-19 protocols:
What do I wear?
What is security like at the UN?
Airport style security, but you can keep on your shoes. Please don’t bring a large bag or backpack. No outside food or beverages will be allowed in and water bottles must be empty. You will be issued a pass to gain entry to the UN, if you loose this pass you won’t be able to participate in the conference. Please make sure to abide to the rules so that passing through security is fast and efficient.
Can I suggest a speaker for the conference?
Finding Accommodation
During The Conference
- How do I gain access to the UN?
- Where will the conference take place?
- Where do I find the schedule?
- What are the hours of the conference?
- Can I have lunch at the UN?
- How do I ask a question?
- What should I bring with me?
- How can I participate in the student debate?
- Do I need to stay with my advisor?
- Does UNIS-UN have a social media presence?
How do I gain access to the UN?
Where will the conference take place?
Where do I find the schedule?
What are the hours of the conference?
Can I have lunch at the UN?
How do I ask a question?
What should I bring with me?
How can I participate in the student debate?
A form with information regarding the debates will be sent to each school after their confirmation for attending this year’s conference. Your school will have a finite number of people who can debate . Your school advisor will create a process for which they choose the students who will participate in the debate(s).
Do I need to stay with my advisor?
Does UNIS-UN have a social media presence?
Yes. You can find us on Instagram at @unisun_nyc.
Don't forget to tag @UNISNY in your posts and Instagram stories so we can repost them!
After the Conference
- Will the sessions be recorded?
- Where do I find the working paper?
- Can I submit an article for the working paper?
- How do I continue the conversation?
- Where can I get UNIS-UN branded merchandise?
- Does UNIS-UN have a social media presence?
Will the sessions be recorded?
Where do I find the working paper?
Can I submit an article for the working paper?
How do I continue the conversation?
Where can I get UNIS-UN branded merchandise?
Does UNIS-UN have a social media presence?
Cultural Showcase FAQ
- Is it required to participate in the cultural showcase?
- How do I register for the cultural showcase?
- What types of acts do you expect for the cultural showcase?
- How long should my act be for the cultural showcase?