From 2–4 October 2026, Runnymede College in Madrid hosted the second edition of the Runnymede College Model United Nations Conference (RCMUN 2026), following the success of its inaugural conference in 2025. Over three days, students from more than eight schools across Spain and abroad came together to debate pressing global challenges, develop diplomatic skills, and foster international cooperation.
The conference welcomed delegations from Virtus College, Hastings School, International School of Madrid (ISM), Dar Esalam American School, Institut Notre Dame, and St George’s British International School in Rome, among others. Organised under the leadership of Secretaries-General Antonio Anadón García and Tadea del Pino, RCMUN 2026 was the culmination of months of preparation by the student Secretariat, committee Chairs, teachers, and school administration, with particular recognition given to Ms Howe for her instrumental role in organising the event.
The conference featured 10 committees, divided into Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced levels, including the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), Human Rights Council (UNHRC), World Health Organization (WHO), Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), General Assembly (UNGA), Historical Security Council, G20, Artificial Intelligence Governance Committee, and International Space Council.
Representing different countries, delegates debated issues ranging from international security and human rights to global health, organised crime, economic development, artificial intelligence, and space governance. Through formal debate, diplomatic negotiations, and resolution drafting, participants experienced the complexities of international decision-making.
The conference officially opened on Friday, 2 October, with speeches from Runnymede College Headmaster Frank M. Powell and keynote speaker Dr Charles Powell, Director of the Elcano Royal Institute, distinguished historian, and former Runnymede pupil. Their addresses emphasised the importance of democratic institutions, intellectual independence, diplomacy, and constructive disagreement.
Following the opening ceremony, delegates participated in three days of committee sessions, negotiations, and General Assembly debates. Beyond formal proceedings, social activities, including a Friday reception and Saturday barbecue, encouraged friendships and cultural exchange between students from different schools and countries.
The conference concluded on Sunday, 4 October, with an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions across all committees. Delegates received Honourable Mention, Most Improved, and Best Delegate awards, celebrating preparation, progress, leadership, and diplomatic ability. The conference also recognised exceptional committee leadership through its Best Chairs Awards, including Atalanta Báez Herrera and Ana Kanahuati, Chairs of the United Nations Human Rights Council.
RCMUN 2026 represented another milestone in Runnymede College’s commitment to fostering global citizenship, critical thinking, and student leadership. More than a simulation of the United Nations, the conference provided an opportunity for young people to challenge perspectives, build international friendships, and discover the importance of cooperation in addressing global challenges.
RCMUN 2026 demonstrated that tomorrow’s leaders are shaped through dialogue, understanding, and the willingness to work together.
Read the Headmaster’s full speech