Justice in Motion: Leaders, Diplomats, and Delegates Launch ILYMUN 2026

Anaaya PATIL

"True justice may be an ideal we never fully achieve, but it is something we must always strive for." These words, delivered by ILYMUN’s Secretary-General Fleur Reilly-Neveu, set the tone for the 13th edition of the annual ILYMUN conference, officially inaugurated on 12th March 2026, with its Opening Ceremony.

The event welcomed several distinguished guests, including keynote speaker Valdezy Urquiza (Secretary General of INTERPOL), the directors of both schools, Simon Herd and David Johnson, as well as the Consuls General representing the American, Chinese, and Irish embassies.

“Leave here a little less certain, and a little more curious. That, I think, is the best thing this conference can give you.” encouraged Paul-Émile Berthodin, one of the conference’s six Secretaries-General. He skillfully guided the audience through the event and officially launched both the committees and the organizing team into the two days of debate ahead. He opened with a motivating speech encouraging delegates to give their very best, emphasizing the learning experience the conference would offer.

The ISL Primary Choir then took the stage with two uplifting performances: This Is Who We Are by Mark Burrows and High by Suzie Rock. Their lively presentation, filled with colour and choreography, immediately set an energetic tone and inspired delegates as they prepared to debate.

They were followed by a speech from Catherine Staron, a member of the Auvergne‑Rhône‑Alpes Council. She encouraged attendees by highlighting the many opportunities awaiting them in the future and reminding them of the importance of engagement and initiative.

Next, Caterina Ambrosini, Secretary-General of ILYMUN 2026, addressed the audience. She spoke about the importance of confronting everyday injustices and encouraged delegates to remain curious, absorb as much knowledge as possible, and use the conference as a platform to raise awareness about global challenges.

Paul-Émile then introduced Mme Geib, director of the CSI, who discussed the growing threats posed by cybercrime and environmental injustice. She stressed that respecting the law is essential because it protects both societies and the values that sustain them.

Following this, David Johnson reflected on his more than 35 years of involvement in Model United Nations, noting that the world appears to be returning to a period of heightened conflict. His remarks reinforced the significance of this year’s theme, “Justice in Motion,” and emphasized the continued importance of pursuing justice in a complex and changing world.

The audience was then shown the Opening Ceremony video, a project created collaboratively by the six Secretaries-General and the AudioVisual teams of both schools. In the video, each Secretary-General selected a meaningful location in Lyon and recorded a short motivational message explaining the significance of this year’s conference theme. These clips were followed by short segments highlighting current global events, reminding delegates of the urgent need for awareness and action.

The ceremony continued with a speech from the Secretary General of INTERPOL, who spoke about the importance of international cooperation in addressing global crime and maintaining justice across borders and INTERPOLS involvement in these missions.

The final speech of the ceremony was delivered by ILYMUN’s Secretary-General, Fleur Reilly-Neveu, who reflected on the ongoing pursuit of justice and the importance of fairness and integrity in every action. She encouraged delegates to approach the debates with dedication, thoughtful engagement, and a commitment to meaningful dialogue, leaving them inspired and energized for the discussions ahead.

To close the event, the CSI Choir performed two classics: Fly Me to the Moon by Bart Howard and Imagine by John Lennon. Their vibrant performance and choreography ended the ceremony on a joyful note, sending delegates off energized and ready to begin the conference.