Taking our seats in the Headquarters of the UN in New York was surreal. Being surrounded by the sandy brown paneling and microphones that light up when you talk only heightened the experience.

Peter Luff introduced an afternoon filled with speakers to debate the Security Council's use of the veto. Initially, we heard the history and possible future of the UN from the Indian UN representative, giving a necessary background to the veto and its initial purpose was. After this, there was an opportunity to ask questions, many of which broadened the topic discussed and made valid points. Questions of the UN's assistance in Zimbabwe and its stance on the Iraq war were asked.

A UN secretary from the Security Council then spoke about how decisions are made in the council and some of the security risks that it might have to make decisions about. His explanation of events and problems to take into consideration if the veto were to be abolished added a greater understanding to the debate.

The final speaker was from the UN secretariat on social customs. He explained the importance of finding a balance between respecting a state's customs and ensuring that these did not jeopardise someone's human rights. This was an interesting point, and was followed up by questions as to whether religion is an obstacle to passing mandates within the UN.

The afternoon was insightful and enlightening, broadening the minds of the students to global problems and how states try to deal with these in a unified manner.

The building of the headquarters used modern artwork to portray the need for world peace and we were lucky enough to visit the room of silence as well as see the portraits of previous and present Secretaries General.