Kick-Off '26

UNYA Leuven Kick-off: a look back

On 6 October, UNYA Leuven kicked off the new academic year with an evening of debate, discussion and new connections in the Machu Picchu Room at Agora.

After a short introduction to who we are and what we do, students split into four groups. Each group took on one UN-related statement:

• The digital divide: "Access to the internet must be recognized as a universal human right."

• Protecting humanitarian workers: "Humanitarian workers must receive stronger legal protection in conflict zones, with real consequences for attacks."

• Climate finance: "Wealthy countries must be legally obliged to pay for climate damage in poorer countries."

• Biodiversity: "At least 30% of the world's land and oceans must be legally protected by 2030."

Every participant played a role, such as a government representative, an academic, a civil society actor or a fourth stakeholder. They argued from their role's interests, explored different perspectives, and worked towards a compromise that everyone in the group could live with, just like at the United Nations.

The evening ended with each group's closing statements and a short speech from one of our board members. Afterwards we stayed for an informal drink, where new and familiar faces could get to know each other.

A big thank you to everyone who joined and brought such energy and creativity to the discussions. Great debates, great compromises!