About IDIA

Link to IDIA.net

The Institute for Domestic and International Affairs, Inc. is the organization that powers ModelUN.com. We also run some of the United States’ most renowned Model UN and Model Congress conferences for high school students.

Founded in 1992, IDIA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that runs civic engagement programs for students of all ages. Our flagship programs include Rutgers Model United NationsPhiladelphia Model United Nations, and Rutgers Model Congress. We also coordinate several annual service trips that provide college students a chance to do real, hands-on volunteer work overseas. All in all, more than 3,000 students from all over the country – and the globe – participate in IDIA programs each year.

Learn more about RUMUN

Learn more about PhilMUN

Learn more about RMC

Our History

IDIA has its roots at Rutgers University where it was founded in the late 1990s by college students who wanted to provide an issue-focused alternative to the rhetoric-based debate scene. All IDIA conferences are hallmarked by their focus on teaching students the skills of compromise and cooperative leadership. We award students who can implement the most substantive solutions to real, pressing geopolitical issues – never who can speak the most or the loudest.

“Jersey Roots, Global Reach”

– Unofficial motto of Rutgers University

For nearly 20 years, IDIA has maintained a presence as the preeminent Model UN/Model Congress provider in the northeast US. We are always looking for opportunities to partner with educators and students in other part of the world to build fresh learning opportunities. Contact us here to learn more.

The IDIA Difference

Traditional debate competitions give out trophies to those who can speak the fastest, the loudest, or with the most rhetorical flourish. IDIA programs are different.

True to the missions of both the United Nations and Congress, IDIA’s programs reward the skills of constructive compromise and in-depth research. These aren’t just the most important skills in the real diplomatic and legislative worlds – they’re the best ways to prepare young minds for the leadership roles of tomorrow.

Click here to learn more about how Model UN works. Click here for more info on Model Congress.