As more teens look for ways to make a real impact, the World Teen Parliament (WTP) is redefining what it means to be a young leader. Unlike traditional Model United Nations (MUN) programs, WTP empowers teenagers to interact directly with Members of Parliament from around the world. This unique setup is built on a foundation of partnerships with esteemed organizations like UNESCO-MGIEP and Save The Children, with support from the Supreme Court Bar Association of India and the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Trinidad and Tobago. Through this program, teens don’t just simulate world issues—they influence them.
How WTP Differs from MUNs: Real Conversations with Real Leaders
Model UN conferences like Harvard MUN or Indian International MUNare excellent for introducing students to diplomacy, but they operate primarily as simulations. In contrast, WTP offers real parliamentary sessions where teens can discuss pressing global issues directly with policymakers. These monthly sessions, held every third Saturday at 8:00 PM IST, bring young voices directly to the table, enabling meaningful conversations with decision-makers.
The Global Network and Prestige of WTP
With over 20,000 schools, 9,00,000+ teens, and 50,00,000+ teachers, principals, and parents actively involved, the WTP community spans countries from India, Nepal, and Bhutan to Spain, the UK, and the US. From this large pool, 100 Teen Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected through a rigorous global election process. WTP’s sessions have previously hosted notable figures such as:
- Chandra Arya, Member of Parliament, Canada
- Heroy Clarke, Member of Parliament, Jamaica
- Kirsty Blackman, Cabinet Office Spokesperson, UK Parliament
- Dr. Arvin Boolell, MP, Mauritius
- Suresh Prabhu, former Union Minister, India, and guest professor at the London School of Economics
- Frank Habineza, Vice President of Social Affairs Committee, Rwanda
- Buti Manamela, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, South Africa
Each parliamentary session gives WTP’s Teen MPs a chance to engage with these leaders on a range of subjects from technology and innovation to climate action. By actively participating, WTP members are influencing key global dialogues and honing their leadership abilities, far surpassing the skills developed through MUNs.
Why WTP is a Global Platform of Influence?
Through direct mentorship from these leaders, WTP participants gain insights and build skills that position them to effect genuine change. Teens interested in government, social impact, or advocacy find WTP’s environment uniquely empowering. For those passionate about tech, the World Teen Awards within WTP recognizes outstanding young talents in categories like the Gaming Champion Award, Coding Prodigy Award, and Tech Innovator Award—awards that not only bring recognition but also include a cash prize of INR 75,000.
Joining WTP: A Path to Real-World Impact
For teenagers seeking impactful platforms, the World Teen Parliament (WTP)Â offers an experience that goes far beyond the traditional Model United Nations (MUN)Â setup. While MUNs simulate global discussions, WTP empowers teens to engage directly with Members of Parliament from various countries, gaining real-world political insights and a chance to voice their ideas to actual policymakers. Every month, on the third Saturday at 8:00 PM IST, WTP conducts parliamentary sessions where teen MPs interact with prominent political figures.
WTP’s impact is further amplified by the World Teen Awards, which celebrate young achievers across diverse fields—from Creative Arts and STEM Achievements to Social Impact and Leadership & Service. This broad recognition helps showcase the extraordinary talents and dedication of teens making a difference globally. Categories within the awards range from arts and academics to technology, sports, and community service, highlighting that excellence can be achieved in countless forms.
Each year, WTP registration opens on September 15th—marking the UN's International Day of Democracy—and closes on December 15th. The WTP oath-taking ceremony takes place annually on January 22nd, welcoming the new teen MPs into the global youth parliament.
Experience Leadership Beyond MUN
For teens who aspire to be leaders—not just in a simulated format, but in real life—WTP is the ultimate platform. It’s not just a place to debate; it’s a place to be heard, to influence, and to lead change on an international level.
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