Students get lessons from UN on human trafficking prevention

Students from secondary schools and the National University of Laos met in Vientiane recently to learn about human trafficking, especially how to counter trafficking in persons under the rule of international law.
The topic was discussed during the course of a Model United Nations event, which took place at United Nations House in Vientiane.
The event was attended by the Dean for Student Affairs of the Faculty of Law and Political Science at the National University of Laos, Assoc. Prof. Viengvilay Thiengchanhxay; Vice Dean of Student Affairs, Faculty of Law and Political Science, Mr Phouvong Vilayseng; United Nations Resident Coordinator Mr Octavian Bivol; invited guests and students.
The Model United Nations session was organised by the Asian Law Students’ Association Laos under the supervision of the Faculty of Law and Political Science.
It was supported by the United Nations in Laos and the Luxembourg Development Project LAO/031, according to a press release from the Asian Law Students’ Association Laos.
This event was conducted in both Lao and English, focusing on the main theme of anti-human trafficking as being among the most serious problems in the world today.
More than 120 students took part in the event.
The main purpose of the session was to broaden students’ understanding about anti-human trafficking, especially ways to counter trafficking in persons under the rule of international law.
It also raised awareness among students about the process of UN meetings in resolving global issues and the importance of tackling the human trafficking issue.
Model United Nations is an educational activity designed to simulate real United Nations meetings, in order to allow participants to experience the actual process.
Such sessions provide a perfect platform to showcase and develop students’ approach to research and negotiating and improving their public speaking skills as they work together to solve a problem.
In addition, Model United Nations events enable participants to display their enthusiasm for learning about issues of global importance.
The two days of the 3rd Asian Law Students’ Association Laos Model United Nations 2019 was successful.
It is hoped that this event will enhance the knowledge and experiences of all participants and encourage them to use the lessons learnt in their own work. This is a valuable model for all students interested in practising and developing their skills.

By Phomphong Laoin
(Latest Update August 7, 2019)