+ DISEC - Disarmament and International Security Committee

Chairs: Selin Nalbantoglu, Frank Lin, Raoul Nyenimigabo

Introduction to the Committee How do we address cybercrime and bioterrorism in order to keep the international community safe? DISEC delegates will explore these questions throughout committee sessions. We hope to foster a collaborative atmosphere where delegates can share diverse perspectives and propose creative and effective measures that respond to current challenges while also addressing future risks.

Topic 1: Cybercrime and Digital Defense

Cybercrime and digital defense are critical issues in today's interconnected world, where financial crimes such as wiping out bank accounts and freezing transfers are increasingly common. The use of AI to create targeted deepfakes adds another layer of complexity, as these can manipulate individuals and disrupt societal norms. In response, there is a growing need to design robust training programs and provide incentives to attract top-tier hackers to bolster the defenses of organizations and governments. Additionally, the rise of private actors developing systems like Starlink, which can target any country at any time, highlights the challenges of securing digital infrastructure on a global scale. Cybercrime is notoriously difficult to track and manage because it does not adhere to traditional borders, underlining the need for international cooperation and innovative solutions in the realm of digital defense.

Topic 2: Guarding against Bioterrorism

Bioweapons employ engineered viruses, bacteria, and other toxins to harm targeted populations. First emerging during World War I, bioweapons have broadened in scope and modus operandi over the past century. Despite efforts to renounce the development and use of biological weapons in conflicts, certain actors continue to research and deploy these harmful agents. To protect against bioterrorism and other incidences of biological warfare, countries must create and maintain robust biotechnology infrastructures that can rapidly respond to dangerous situations and mitigate the harmful effects of these weapons. The goal of this committee is to develop adequate response frameworks while also brainstorming ways to disincentivize the creation and use of biological weapons.

+ WHO - World Health Organization

Chairs: Emma Neville, Kathleen Doyle, Franziska Borneff

Introduction to the Committee The goal of our committee is to facilitate a collaborative environment where all delegates are able to engage in developing creative solutions. Over the course of the committee, delegates will debate and discuss critical current health issues, improving their critical thinking, teamwork, and rhetorical skills.

Topic 1: Mental Health Care Accessibility

Globally, one in four people are estimated to be impacted by mental illness at some point in their lives, yet access to psychological care remains limited. In high-income countries, 5 out of 10 people cannot access needed treatment. In low- and middle-income countries, this number rises to 9 out of 10 people. From financial barriers and social stigma to lack of mental health care professionals, multiple obstacles remain in attaining equal accessibility to mental health treatment. Delegates will convene to develop innovative and actionable strategies aimed at dismantling barriers to mental health accessibility, fostering inclusive frameworks, and ensuring equitable treatment for all individuals across the world.

Topic 2: Disability and Equal Opportunity

Disability and equal opportunity navigates the complex landscape of ensuring fair treatment and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Legal frameworks, social attitudes, and institutional barriers shape opportunities for disabled individuals in various facets of life. Through examination and advocacy, it strives to promote inclusivity and dismantle discrimination, advocating for a society where everyone has the chance to thrive regardless of ability. However, it often falls short and does not adequately support all individuals equally.

+ UNODC - United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

Chairs: Yoselin Colin, Yasmina Traore

Introduction to the Committee This committee will explore the regulation of cannabis and health implications of illegally produced cannabis as well as the opioid crisis. The goal of this committee is to make the world safer in regards to cannabis and opioids to build resilient societies. We hope to foster a committee focused on learning and growing together, while discussing how to best address these two topics. We look forward to hearing your ideas!

Topic 1: Regulation of Cannabis & Health Implications of Illegally Produced Cannabis Cannabis regulation and the discussion of its legalization are complex and evolving issues, forcing the global community to acknowledge public health concerns to minimize harm caused by cannabis consumption. As more countries move towards legalizing cannabis for medical and recreational use, the UN must address the role of regulation in its production and the impact of illegally produced cannabis on global health and safety. It is imperative that the negative health implications of illicit cannabis markets be mitigated while respecting national sovereignty and cultural differences regarding the substance.

Topic 2: Response to the Opioid Crisis An unprecedented opioid epidemic has spread globally, posing profound challenges with several implications for public health and social stability. Despite numerous attempts to solve this crisis, opioid addiction and misuse persist. Overdose deaths are also continuing to increase. The UN must identify preventative measures that may be taken to address the opioid crisis and ways to strengthen international collaboration to fight drug trafficking and address the underlying causes of opioid addiction.

+ ECOFIN - Economic and Financial Affairs Committee

Chairs: Sophia Calderon, Lily Chatalbasheva, Seth Baker

Introduction to the Committee The Economic and Financial Committee (ECOFIN) is the Second Committee of the United Nations General Assembly and is an essential organ to address pressing worldwide issues. ECOFIN deals with topics relating to economic growth, the eradication of poverty, globalization, and sustainable development. In YMUN LI, delegates in ECOFIN will work together to draft resolutions and create innovative solutions to tackle economic disparities. In Topic 1, delegates will debate policies to reduce rural poverty, emphasizing how climate change and the current lack of response increase the vulnerability of under-resourced communities. For Topic 2, delegates will focus on the economics of development and explore technologies to promote economic growth, enhance access to essential technologies, and address economic challenges communities currently face. Delegates will have to consider the global implications of their proposals alongside interrelated topics like gender equity, sustainability, and climate change.

Topic 1: Rural Poverty

In the battle against climate change, rural poverty emerges as a critical battleground where financial integrity of institutions plays a pivotal role. As climate-related challenges exacerbate existing socio-economic disparities, ensuring the soundness of financial mechanisms becomes imperative for effective response and resilience building. By addressing rural poverty through robust financial systems, communities gain the means to implement adaptive measures, access essential resources, and foster sustainable development. This synergy between financial integrity and climate action not only uplifts vulnerable populations but also fortifies the foundation for a more equitable and resilient future.

Topic 2: Economics of Development

Technology is essential in furthering economic growth, whether through advancements in production, discoveries of new methods of obtaining resources, or the creation of new ways to recycle and compost. However, new and often essential technologies are usually concentrated in already wealthy countries, creating a harmful cycle that is difficult for many nations to escape. In what ways can countries prevent the perpetuation of this cycle while appeasing citizens, allies, and rivals? Is there a way to do this in a manner that is economically beneficial to all parties? How does limited access to new or essential technologies affect globalization, alliances, and economic growth? Overall, how do technologies affect the world and ourselves, both negatively and positively?

+ SOCHUM - Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee

This committee will be held online virtually

Chairs: Poppy Stowell-Evans, Aminata Kamara

Introduction to the Committee This committee is a good introduction for delegates to gain varying perspectives regarding social media platforms as vehicles of self expression, misinformation, hate and so much more. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, SOCHUM aims to generate actionable recommendations for member states to integrate disability rights into their policies and practices. The ultimate goal is to create a world where individuals with disabilities can fully participate in society, exercise their rights, and contribute meaningfully to their communities, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

Topic 1: Freedom of Expression and Media Freedom

In an era where information is both a tool and a weapon, the principles of freedom of expression and media freedom stand as the cornerstone of democracy. Delegates are tasked with navigating the delicate balance between fostering open discourse and safeguarding against misinformation, censorship, and manipulation. Together, let us explore strategies to empower voices, ensure press independence, and fortify the vital arteries of our global information ecosystem.

Topic 2: Rights of Persons with Disabilities

SOCHUM's focus on disability rights is a pivotal step towards fostering inclusivity and safeguarding the fundamental rights of individuals with disabilities. This committee will delve into the intricate dynamics of protecting the rights of people with disabilities, specifically emphasizing the challenges faced by those with physical and sensory impairments. Discussions will revolve around devising comprehensive strategies to ensure access to quality education, employment opportunities, and healthcare services for individuals with disabilities. Moreover, delegates will explore legal frameworks aimed at combating discrimination, promoting inclusion, and enhancing accessibility in public spaces. Technological advancements play a crucial role in this discourse, as delegates will examine innovative solutions to improve accessibility through assistive devices and digital platforms. The committee will also address the intersectionality of disability rights with broader social issues, such as poverty alleviation, gender equality, and sustainable development.

+ Legal- United Nations Office of Legal Affairs

Chairs: Maddi Brown, Graham Litz

Introduction to the Committee In this committee, we will address the issues of AI and autonomous vehicle regulation in addition to examining the legal implications of space exploration. We encourage delegates to approach these matters with an inquisitive, respectful attitude and to always be open to learning from your peer delegates! We hope this experience will foster a new understanding of international relations, parliamentary procedure, and overall collaborations amongst your fellow delegates.

Topic 1: Regulating Advancements in AI and Autonomous Vehicles

On November 30, 2022, the American company OpenAI launched ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence (AI) processor whose communication skills and impressive response speed took the world by storm. While AI systems like ChatGPT have been a while in the making, they pose unique concerns when applied the next generation of autonomous vehicles (AVs). Tesla’s cars already contain a built-in AI system, Tesla Autopilot, capable of steering, accelerating, and braking vehicles. Google subsidiary Waymo, and AV company Zoox, are working to incorporate large language model systems like ChatGPT into their technologies — with the hope AI will eventually operate and steer their self-driving vehicles. Considering these advancements, delegates will tackle numerous issues, including the ethics of using AI in self-driving cars, the worrying lack of regulations in the AV industry, international trade policy and its application to AI, and mechanisms for safeguarding equity in AI technologies that, researchers have shown, often replicate racist, sexist, and white supremacist structures. It is critical delegates weigh the dizzying rate of AI innovation with these salient — and unignorable — concerns, probing AI’s intersection with systems of inequality, power, and access while remaining optimistic that we can find solutions to this formidable new technology.

Topic 2: Legal Implications of Space Exploration

In 1955, the Space Race marked the beginning of a new technological period filled with space exploration, missions, and projects. The competition between the United States and the Soviet Union in pursuit for technological advancement fostered a number of social, legal, and political implications. Now, in the year of 2024, several member states have contributed to space exploration and conducted space missions. With only 67 years since the first space mission was launched, we have entered an unprecedented era. International law combined with each respective states’ sovereignty essentially creates a system of a governed world. However, when introduced with is essentially a realm that has no claim for sovereignty, we must consider the legal implications of space exploration. This committee will encourage you to think critically and comprehensively about the outcomes of space exploration that includes, but is not limited to: international risk and damage due to space debris (environmental space governance), space colonization or commercial use (specifically space tourism), and the right to access space. We encourage delegates to consider not only the technological implications of space exploration (cross-over technological advancements for military use), but to also keep in mind the international legality of space usage.

+ UN Women - United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women

Chairs: Anna Zhao, Shalina Effendi, Elspeth Yeh

Introduction to the Committee Dear delegates, welcome to the UN Women Committee at YMUN LI. The dais looks forward to hearing your innovative solutions to elevate the status of women and girls around the world.

Topic 1: Access to Health and Reproductive Services for Women and Girls

While the United Nations has reaffirmed the Rights to Sexual and Reproductive Health as Universal Human Rights, access to adequate medical services remains an obstacle for millions of women and girls around the globe. There is a wide disparity in the allocation of resources between countries of different developmental economic statuses. In light of the tumultuous recent political developments on access to abortion, our international community must protect the basic rights of our women and girls. In this committee, we hope to synthesize innovative solutions to protect and expand access to contraceptives and reproductive health services for our vulnerable communities.

Topic 2: Access to Education for Women in Rural Communities

Despite the global progress in education equity, women in rural areas continue to face significant barriers in accessing quality educational opportunities. These challenges are compounded by socio-economic, cultural, and geographical factors that disproportionately affect rural communities. The persistent gap in educational attainment between urban and rural areas highlights the need for targeted interventions. As the international community strives towards inclusive and equitable quality education for all, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals, it is imperative to prioritize and address the unique obstacles faced by women in rural settings. In this committee, we will explore innovative strategies and collaborative efforts to enhance educational access and quality for women in these underserved areas, ensuring that no one is left behind.

+ SPECPOL - Special Political and Decolonization Committee

Chairs: Riley Avelar, Qinyi Wang

Introduction to the Committee This SPECPOL UN committee aims to address both issues of decolonization and peace keeping operations. In this committee, delegates will work together to discuss the evolving role of technology in decolonization movements and the issue of neocolonialism in humanitarian relief.

Topic 1: Technology in Decolonization Movements

As we witness the rapid advancement of technology in our daily lives, we can also see its ever growing and pivotal role in decolonization movements. As we have over in recent history, technology’s ability to foster solidarity, to spread information, and uplift the voices of otherwise silenced demographics has shifted the power of narratives back to the people. In a world where information is at the tip of our fingers, the media has become both a catalyst and tool of the decolonization struggle.

Topic 2: Neocolonialism in Humanitarian Relief

In the face of ongoing regional conflicts and crises, humanitarian relief plays an increasingly important role in restoring peace and well-being through assistance in health, food, refuge, infrastructure, and defense. However, the dominant donor states often take advantage of the after-effects of colonialism and extend capitalist rule over the recipient state. The recipient state is, therefore, forced vulnerable to financial or military dependency on the dominant donor state, and the dominant donor state gains unequal advantages in trade, resources, and political allyship without the explicit use of political control or territorial acquisition. Neocolonial developed countries are exploiting developing countries under the seemingly benign cause of humanitarian relief. It is imperative that the United Nations addresses the emerging issue of neocolonialism and calls for fundamental change in humanitarian aid practices to enhance global equity.

+ UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Chairs: Ali Otuzoglu, Mary Kim

Introduction to the Committee Welcome to YMUNLI’s UNHCR committee! We will be debating protection for climate refugees and the role of international aid over the course of the conference. We look forward to meeting you all and hearing the creative ideas you come up with as you collaborate with other delegates in this committee.

Topic 1: Environmental Displacement and Protection for Climate Refugees

Protecting climate refugees and addressing environmental displacement is of great importance in today’s world. As climate change accelerates, vulnerable communities face increasing risks of environmental degradation, extreme weather events and more. It is imperative that the international community aids climate refugees by assisting them with resettlement and addressing the causes of climate change.

Topic 2: Role of International Aid

According to SDG 17, it is imperative for states to cooperate to resolve conflict and foster sustainable growth. Especially for displaced persons who are not under the protection of any permanent state, international aid provides a prospect for peace and development. Currently, 76% of refugees are located in low- and middle-income countries. In 2022, the total foreign aid from verified donors rose to a record-high number of 204 billion dollars. Yet given the war in Palestine and rise in armed conflict in many regions around the world, it is imperative that member states maintain dialogue to find ways to best coordinate international aid. To alleviate logistical frictions, it is often recognized by NGOs that monetary aid most easily creates impact. However, discussing approaches to international aid and analyzing member states’ track records is crucial in ensuring further growth.

+ UNICEF - United Nations Children's Fund

Chairs: Megan Niu, Josh Leffler

Introduction to the Committee Welcome to the United Nations Children’s Fund! This committee will have a humanitarian focus on children’s fundamental rights, notably to education and protection from labor exploitation. In a world where children are disproportionately affected by conflict, our goal is to ensure that children are not left behind in the international discourse. The chairs both formerly served on the YMUN secretariat for three years, and they are excited to be back for a fourth year leading this committee. They strongly believe in creating an inclusive and educational atmosphere where respectful disagreement is welcomed.

Topic 1: Access to Early Childhood Education for Refugees

There are millions of refugees around the world, many of them young children whose schooling is interrupted when they are forced to leave their homes. Education is frequently not available to children whose families are on the move, and when it is, it is almost universally under-resourced and at risk of sudden disruption. Educational disruptions may disproportionately affect some refugees based on gender, national origin, language spoken, and other factors, and interruptions in early childhood education can have major long-term negative effects, potentially including delayed abilities to read and write and struggles in later schooling. Delegates will consider how UNICEF can increase the availability and quality of education available to young refugees, whether through cooperation with national education authorities, educational NGOs, and other partners, as well as through direct action itself.

Topic 2: Child Soldiers & Other Children Recruited in Armed Conflicts

Although the use of children in armed forces is considered a serious violation of international humanitarian law, thousands of children (and likely many more) are recruited every year by armed groups. This often occurs through child trafficking, abduction, and other forms of coercion, but some children also voluntarily join as a source of income or protection. Once recruited, these children experience unimaginable forms of violence, including forced labor, torture, combat, and sexual violence. Delegates will explore how UNICEF can implement concrete initiatives and use international cooperation to 1) identify underlying causes and contexts that allow for such blatant human rights violations to occur, 2) disrupt child soldier recruitment strategies, 3) safely rescue children who are currently part of armed groups, and 4) best support child survivors as they integrate back into their home communities.

+ World Bank

Chairs: Will Mahoney, Carter Cashen

Topic 1: The Role of Digital Technology in Promoting Financial Inclusion and Reducing Poverty

As the economies of the world grow and become ever more connected through technology, many people and businesses are given opportunities to interact with each other in new ways across the globe. Yet these opportunities are not equally presented to everyone, and sometimes the very people meant to be helped are harmed. The World Bank is — with proper policy — in a unique and powerful position to harness these digital engines of progress with the whole world’s benefits.

Topic 2: Combatting Neocolonial Economic Practices: The World Bank's Role in Ensuring Sovereign Economic Development

Many former colonies still face the economic ripple effects of colonialism through aggressive resource extraction and inequality on the world stage. Neocolonial economic practices stifle growth in developing economies and prevent countries from taking advantage of their own natural resources and fully realizing their potential for economic progress. Taking into account its mission to end global poverty and ensure sustainable economic development, the World Bank is uniquely positioned to help alleviate the pressures of neocolonial economic practices and ensure equitable economic development.

+ CPD - Commission on Population and Development

This committee is a beginner committee

Chairs: Ayden Lee, Hannah Wyman

Introduction to the Committee Welcome to the Commission of Population and Development! Originally created in 1946, CPD focuses on assisting governments in implementing the ICPD Programme of Action, addressing crucial issues like sustainable development, reproductive health, migration, and demographic changes. This year, the committee will focus on two critical topics: Managing Urbanization: Policies for Sustainable City Planning and Migration and Strategies for Sustainable Population Growth Amidst Global Water Scarcity. We have the authority to speak out on these matters and propose and enact solutions to these pressing issues. While these issues are serious, we wish to create an open environment where all can feel the freedom to pitch in and help drive progress forward.

Topic 1: Managing Urbanization: Policies for Sustainable City Planning and Migration

As the world’s population continues to increase and as individuals move to more desirable places to live and work, the need to ensure urban living spaces are adequate is essential. Urbanization is linked with development as sectoral changes within economies worldwide result with a need for migration to cities. However, this mass migration will continue to overwhelm cities that lack proper direction and planning in order to accommodate the growing demands of the population. The CPD has the opportunity to address these pressing issues by advising cities how they plan for the busy futures ahead of them and suggesting the necessary policies to create sustainable cities for all.

Topic 2: Strategies for Sustainable Population Growth Amidst Global Water Scarcity

As we aim to accommodate expanding populations while facing dwindling water resources, there is a need to explore innovative techniques or technology to ensure that sustainable development is the solution. There is demand to address issues concerning equitable access to water, population management, and sustainably while facing increasing water scarcity. The nation seeks a way to allow for population numbers to rise while maintaining respect for the water resources we currently possess. CPD has the ability to create forward thinking measures and apply policies that promote the integrity of water management alongside population growth.

+ UNAIDS - Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS

This committee is a beginner committee

Chairs: Archit Kumar, Samantha Alvarez

Introduction to the Committee The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) is an international organization that leads and inspires global efforts to prevent new HIV infections, provide access to treatment, and end the stigma associated with the disease. Established in 1996, UNAIDS brings together the resources and expertise of various UN organizations to effectively coordinate the response to HIV/AIDS. This year, the committee will focus on two essential topics: Eliminating Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV: Policies and Practices for Achieving an AIDS-Free Generation and Eradicating Stigma and Discrimination Against HIV/AIDS Patients in Healthcare. These discussions will delve into policies and best practices for reducing new infections among newborns and ensuring that all individuals with HIV/AIDS receive dignified and nondiscriminatory care.

Topic 1: Eliminating Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV: Policies and Practices for Achieving an AIDS-Free Generation

Mother-to-child transmission of HIV remains a significant challenge to global health, but eliminating it is a crucial step toward achieving an AIDS-free generation. This topic examines policies and practices that can effectively reduce or prevent the transmission of HIV from mothers to their children during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Strategies include providing comprehensive prenatal care, ensuring universal access to antiretroviral therapy for expectant mothers, promoting safe breastfeeding practices, and increasing access to HIV testing and counseling. Additionally, addressing stigma and discrimination ensures that pregnant women feel supported and are more likely to seek care. By implementing these evidence-based approaches in healthcare systems worldwide, we can safeguard the health of future generations and take a critical step towards eradicating HIV/AIDS.

Topic 2: Eradicating Stigma and Discrimination Against HIV/AIDS Patients in Healthcare

Stigma and discrimination remain significant barriers for people living with HIV/AIDS, particularly in healthcare settings, where they can lead to poor treatment adherence, reluctance to seek care, and overall negative health outcomes. This topic explores strategies for eradicating these prejudices, focusing on creating healthcare environments that are supportive, inclusive, and respectful of all patients. Key initiatives include training healthcare professionals to deliver compassionate and unbiased care, implementing anti-discrimination policies and regulations, and enhancing community outreach to raise awareness and normalize HIV testing and treatment. By ensuring that every patient receives nonjudgmental, high-quality care, these efforts aim to improve the health and well-being of those affected by HIV/AIDS while empowering them to live with dignity and confidence.

+ CCPCJ - Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice

Chairs: Kelly Lopez, Alexandra Ceballos

Introduction to the Committee The Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) was established in 1992 as a functional body of ECOSOC to guide and enhance international efforts in combating crime. Its primary mandate is to improve global criminal justice systems, promote international cooperation, and address new and emerging crime trends. This year, the committee will focus on two vital topics: Combating Illicit Human Trafficking and Preventing and Countering Bioterrorism.

Topic 1: Combating Illicit Human Trafficking

Illicit human trafficking is a global crisis that exploits vulnerable individuals for forced labor, sexual exploitation, and other forms of modern slavery. This crime undermines human rights and security, damaging lives and economies while fueling organized criminal networks. The complexity of human trafficking requires coordinated international responses, involving the harmonization of legal frameworks, data sharing, and comprehensive support for victims. The CCPCJ plays a pivotal role in driving these efforts, encouraging nations to work together in dismantling trafficking networks, strengthening legislation and enforcement, and ensuring that victims receive justice and support. This collaborative approach aims to eliminate the scourge of human trafficking and create a safer and more equitable global community.

Topic 2: Preventing and Countering Bioterrorism

Bioterrorism poses a significant threat to global health and security, as malicious actors can manipulate biological agents to cause widespread harm. The consequences of such attacks can lead to catastrophic loss of life, economic turmoil, and a deep strain on healthcare systems. Preventing and countering bioterrorism requires global collaboration, as biological threats know no borders. The CCPCJ plays a crucial role in fostering international cooperation by helping nations strengthen their biosafety and biosecurity frameworks, improve early detection and response mechanisms, and harmonize legal measures. This proactive approach seeks to build resilience against bioterrorist activities while ensuring that collective action prioritizes human rights, public health, and sustainable development. Together, nations can enhance preparedness and mitigate the risks posed by this emerging form of crime.

+ CESCR - Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights

Chairs: Elise Joshua, Emma Lazo, Michelle Arguello

Introduction to the Committee The Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) is a body of independent experts tasked with monitoring the implementation of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). Established in 1985, it ensures that states fulfill their obligations to promote and protect a broad range of rights, such as access to education, healthcare, social security, and cultural participation. This year, the committee will focus on two critical topics: The Right to Education in Crisis Situations: Ensuring Access and Quality Education for Refugees and Addressing the Digital Divide: Ensuring Universal Access to Information and Communication Technologies.

Topic 1: The Right to Education in Crisis Situations: Ensuring Access and Quality Education for Refugees

The right to education is essential, even during crises, yet refugees and displaced persons often face severe obstacles in accessing quality education. The loss of educational infrastructure, lack of resources, and instability can deprive children and adults of their fundamental right to learn. This topic aims to identify strategies for ensuring access to education and improving its quality in crisis situations. Key areas of focus include developing inclusive educational policies, expanding infrastructure in refugee camps, training educators to address trauma, and promoting partnerships between governments, NGOs, and local communities. By creating robust frameworks that prioritize refugees' learning needs, this initiative will help maintain educational continuity, empower displaced individuals, and ultimately foster stability and resilience in affected regions.

Topic 2: Addressing the Digital Divide: Ensuring Universal Access to Information and Communication Technologies

The digital divide creates significant disparities in accessing information and communication technologies (ICT), preventing marginalized populations from fully participating in the digital economy and modern society. This topic emphasizes strategies to ensure universal access to ICT, recognizing its vital role in education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. Efforts will focus on improving infrastructure, especially in rural and underserved areas, reducing costs for internet connectivity and devices, promoting digital literacy programs to empower people with essential skills, and fostering public-private partnerships to expand global access. By addressing these barriers, this initiative aims to bridge the digital gap, enabling all individuals and communities to harness the transformative power of technology for economic development, social progress, and equality.

+ UNDRR - United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction

Chairs: Patrick Chu, Dominic DeAugustine

Introduction to the Committee The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) is the primary entity responsible for coordinating global efforts to reduce disaster risk and enhance resilience. Established in 1999, UNDRR leads international efforts to implement the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction by supporting the development of disaster-resilient communities. This year, the office will focus on two key topics: Gamification and Virtual Reality in Disaster Preparedness and Advanced Renewable Energy Systems in Post-Disaster Reconstruction.

Topic 1: Gamification and Virtual Reality in Disaster Preparedness

This topic examines how innovative technologies can revolutionize emergency response training and awareness. Gamification, which incorporates game-design elements into non-gaming contexts, and virtual reality (VR), which immerses users in simulated environments, offer unique opportunities to make disaster preparedness engaging and practical. By simulating realistic emergency scenarios through VR, communities can practice their response strategies in a controlled, risk-free setting, learning to react swiftly and efficiently. Gamification can also incentivize individuals and organizations to participate in disaster planning, reinforcing knowledge through interactive challenges and rewards. Ultimately, this approach can build a culture of preparedness and resilience, empowering individuals to respond effectively when disaster strikes.

Topic 2: Next-Gen Renewable Energy Systems in Post-Disaster Reconstruction

This topic explores the crucial role that renewable energy can play in rebuilding communities after disasters. Traditional power infrastructure is often severely damaged or destroyed, leaving survivors without electricity when they need it most. Advanced renewable energy systems offer a decentralized and sustainable solution, providing immediate and resilient power to affected regions. These systems can be rapidly deployed, supply reliable electricity for essential services, and prepare for longer-term recovery. By incorporating solar, wind, and other renewable sources, communities can rebuild more sustainably and ensure energy security in future emergencies. This approach not only accelerates reconstruction efforts but also lays the foundation for climate resilience and disaster preparedness in the years ahead.

+ CND - Commission on Narcotic Drugs

Chairs: Raymond Jin, Sammie Lin, Tiffany Zhou

Introduction to the Committee The Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND) was established in 1946 with the purpose of assisting ECOSOC in all matters related to narcotics and drugs. More specifically, under its original mandate, the CND was to oversee the application of treaties related to narcotic drugs, advise the Council on matters related to narcotic drugs, and formulate international regulations for the control of narcotic drugs. This year, this committee will focus on two topics: cannabis regulation for medical and recreational use, and the global distribution of precursor chemicals for narcotic drugs. As a delegate in this committee, we hope that you will be able to learn about the topics that we have prepared for you while also gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for the CND and the United Nations as a whole. Throughout debate, remember to remain respectful of others and genuinely listen to any ideas they may present; only in this way can proper solutions be developed for the problems you will discuss in committee.

Topic 1: Cannabis Regulation for Medical and Recreational Use

Cannabis is currently the most cultivated and trafficked illicit drug, with about 147 million annual users worldwide. The cannabis plant produces a resin composed of compounds called cannabinoids. Studies have shown that cannabinoids can produce therapeutic effects for nausea and vomiting in illnesses such as cancer. In nations like the U.S., cannabis has been available by prescription for more than a decade, but it is still highly regulated with only 38 states allowing the medical use of cannabis products. Existing heterogeneities regarding cannabis regulations across countries have increased the burden of cannabis use disproportionately. For instance, the legalization of recreational uses of cannabis in some nations such as Brazil has shown to lead to a higher prevalence of cannabis abuse and dependence. Although fully legalized recreational use of cannabis is limited to countries such as Uruguay and Canada, studies have shown that legalization produced several benefits including a decline in cannabis-related crimes, synthetic cannabis supplies, and law-enforcement costs. However, there are also prevalent shortcomings of legalization such as an increase in cannabis usage and cannabis-related disorders. Keeping these terms in mind, delegates will discuss the recreational and medicinal uses of cannabis as well as regulations that help ensure the well-being of all people around the world.

Topic 2: The Global Distribution of Precursor Chemicals for Narcotic Drugs

The use of narcotic drugs has long posed a threat to people around the world, and in recent decades, synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine and fentanyl have become a more significant part of this issue. This phenomenon has come about because synthetic drugs are easier to distribute and manufacture than plant-based drugs. There are many ways to mitigate the proliferation of these illicit substances, but one vital strategy is controlling the supply of narcotic drugs. For synthetic drugs, limiting their supply in large part comes about by targeting precursor chemicals. These are the substances, like ephedrine and acetic anhydride, that are used around the world to create synthetic drugs. However, most of these chemicals are also necessary to manufacture legal, everyday products from medicine to fertilizer. Given the global distribution and mostly legal nature of precursor chemicals, it is difficult for measures that prevent their use in the production of narcotic drugs to be fully effective. As such, delegates will discuss the place of precursor chemicals in the fight against narcotic drugs as well as strategies that regulate these substances to mitigate the global drug issue.

+ CEPA - Committee of Experts on Public Administration

Chairs: Saj Agarwala, Juan Carlos Gonzalez Leal

Introduction to the Committee The Committee for Economic Policy and Analysis (CEPA) develops and evaluates policies that promote sustainable economic growth and stability. In a dynamic, evolving global economy, CEPA addresses contemporary challenges and long-term strategic issues. The goal of this committee is to foster insightful debates that lead to creative, actionable recommendations.. As chairs, we aim to create an atmosphere of rigorous analysis and collaborative problem-solving.

Topic 1: Enhancing Transparency and Accountability in Public Institutions

Governments across the world have encountered rising corruption due to increasing authoritarian regimes and decreased accountability. This trend has become dangerous to political stability worldwide, as public institutions play a crucial role in shaping economic policy for citizens' welfare. To counteract this trend, international organizations have established standards for bureaucracies and involved NGOs in oversight and accountability initiatives. This topic will build on these efforts through solutions with international relevance and pertinence. Key areas of focus will include anti-corruption governance frameworks, technology promoting openness in governance, and model checks on bureaucracy from different countries.

Topic 2: Role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Advancing Infrastructure Development

Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are hailed as a hallmark of neoliberalism. They have, for example, literally built bridges while figuratively bridging interests between bureaucrats and corporate lobbyists. Projects employing the PPP model have become popular in the last few decades, yielding both positive and negative outcomes. This topic will discuss the technicalities of PPP implementation, strategies to attract private investment in infrastructure projects, and quality assurance for companies in terms of results and operations. The debate will weigh the risks and rewards of PPPs, proposing creative solutions for their implementation, such as guidelines to increase efficiency and prevent a loss of government accountability. Key lenses for analysis will include economic, social, and environmental impacts. The aim of this topic is to create a robust framework that maximizes the efficiency and effectiveness of infrastructure development, fostering economic growth and improving public services.

+ CSW - Commission on the Status of Women

Chairs: Serina Wang, Parth Jain, Eva Chen

Introduction to the Committee The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is a commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), dedicated to promoting gender equality and the empowerment of women globally. Established in 1946, the CSW is instrumental in shaping international standards and policies to advance women's rights. This year, the commission will focus on two significant topics: Countering AI Bias to Bridge the Gender Gap in Technology and Addressing the Gender Disparity in Medical Research and Drug Development. Through these discussions, the CSW aims to uncover and challenge the biases embedded in emerging technologies, ensuring that women have equitable opportunities in tech.

Topic 1: Countering AI Bias to Bridge the Gender Gap in Technology

Artificial intelligence has the potential to reshape every industry, yet AI systems often reflect and perpetuate societal biases, including gender disparities. Countering AI bias to bridge the gender gap in technology is crucial to ensure fairness and inclusivity. This topic will delve into how biases arise in data collection, algorithm design, and machine learning models, often leading to discriminatory outcomes that disproportionately affect women. Strategies for addressing these biases include improving the diversity of data sets, involving more women in AI research and development, and establishing ethical standards and regulations that promote gender equality in technological advancements. By fostering awareness and implementing inclusive practices, the tech industry can help build AI systems that empower women, leading to a more balanced and equitable digital future.

Topic 2: Addressing the Gender Disparity in Medical Research and Drug Development

The gender disparity in medical research and drug development has long contributed to unequal healthcare outcomes, as women have historically been underrepresented in clinical studies and drug trials. Addressing this issue involves recognizing how biological and social differences impact health and ensuring that women receive the full benefits of medical advancements. This topic explores the ways in which medical research has excluded or overlooked female participants and how this lack of representation has led to misdiagnoses, inadequate treatment, and drugs that may not be effective for women. To close the gap, key strategies include mandating equitable participation in clinical trials, funding gender-specific health research, and raising awareness among healthcare professionals to ensure that women's unique medical needs are considered. By creating a more inclusive approach to research and development, we can promote healthcare equity and provide better medical solutions for everyone.

+ CSTD - Commission on Science and Technology for Development

Chairs: Adam Wesley, Dylan Bober

Introduction to the Committee The Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) is a subsidiary body of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) dedicated to addressing crucial scientific and technological challenges. Established in 1992, the CSTD provides a global platform for governments, academia, and private sector stakeholders to discuss and shape policies that leverage technological advancements for sustainable development. This year, the commission will focus on two critical topics: Biotech Breakthroughs in Agriculture: Balancing Food Security and Biodiversity and The Future of Space Governance: Adapting to New Technologies and Private Sector Involvement. The commission aims to foster collaboration and insight to advance sustainable solutions for these emerging global challenges.

Topic 1: Urban Development and Smart Cities

Biotechnological advancements in agriculture have the potential to significantly enhance global food security, improving crop yields, resistance to pests and diseases, and nutritional quality. However, these breakthroughs must be carefully balanced with efforts to preserve biodiversity. This topic seeks to explore strategies that leverage biotechnology to address global hunger while ensuring sustainable agricultural practices that protect ecosystems. Key considerations include developing resilient, high-yield crops that require fewer resources, implementing effective biosafety regulations to manage genetically modified organisms, and fostering collaboration between governments, scientists, and local communities. By finding the right balance between innovation and conservation, this initiative aims to ensure food security while maintaining the health of the environment for future generations.

Topic 2: The Future of Space Governance: Adapting to New Technologies and Private Sector Involvement

The rapid evolution of space technology and increased private sector involvement are reshaping the landscape of space exploration and utilization. The future of space governance faces new challenges, including the regulation of commercial space activities, management of space debris, and equitable access to resources and opportunities beyond Earth. This topic will explore how international frameworks can adapt to these changes by fostering collaboration between governments, private entities, and international organizations. It will focus on ensuring responsible behavior in space, promoting the peaceful use of space resources, and encouraging inclusive access to new opportunities. By developing comprehensive governance structures, the global community can utilize the benefits of new technologies while safeguarding the long-term sustainability and fairness of space exploration.

+ LAS - League of Arab States

Chairs: Young In Kim, Devin Wu

Introduction to the Committee: How can the League of Arab States (LAS) promote collaboration in political, economic, and cultural domains among its members? LAS faces the challenge of navigating evolving geopolitical dynamics and regional issues that test its unity. Delegates in this committee will engage in strategic discussions to craft innovative solutions. The goal is to foster stability, economic development, and enhanced cooperation throughout the Arab region.

Topic 1: Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Yemen: Strategies for providing aid and fostering stability.

Within the League of Arab States (LAS) committee, this topic will focus on promoting collaboration in the region and finding common ground in the affairs and interests of the Arab countries. Delegates will delve into strategies to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation in Yemen, focusing on delivering essential aid, fostering stability, and promoting dialogue among conflicting parties. This topic will explore avenues for international cooperation, humanitarian access, and long-term solutions to mitigate the suffering of millions affected by conflict, famine, and disease. Delegates must navigate the complexities of regional dynamics and political sensitivities to devise comprehensive approaches that prioritize the well-being of Yemeni civilians and pave the way for sustainable peace and development in the region.

Topic 2: Addressing economic challenges amidst poverty, socioeconomic inequalities, and inadequate infrastructure development.

In this topic, delegates will explore policies and initiatives aimed at addressing various economic challenges faced by member states. Despite abundant natural resources, many countries in the region struggle with high unemployment rates, limited access to basic services, and inadequate infrastructure, hindering sustainable development and social progress. Delegates will convene to brainstorm innovative solutions and negotiate agreements to promote economic resilience and prosperity in the region. The primary goal of this topic is to develop actionable strategies and policies to address economic challenges and promote inclusive growth in the Arab world. Delegates will work collaboratively to identify priority areas for intervention, such as job creation, investment promotion, and social welfare programs, and draft resolutions that outline concrete steps for implementation.

+ ASEAN - Association of Southeast Asian Nations

Chairs: Andrew Lau, Way Lee

Introduction to the Committee: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established to promote regional peace, stability, and economic growth. This committee operates within a landscape of shifting geopolitical dynamics and complex economic challenges that test the unity and goals of ASEAN. Through strategic dialogue and cooperative efforts, delegates are tasked with developing innovative solutions that enhance stability and prosperity for ASEAN member states in the face of these challenges.

Topic 1: Timor Leste’s Accession into ASEAN

Timor-Leste's journey towards ASEAN membership represents a significant milestone in the region's ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity and unity. Since gaining independence in 2002, Timor-Leste has sought to join ASEAN to enhance its economic and political stability. The country formally applied for membership in 2011, initiating a comprehensive process to align its policies with ASEAN standards. This topic encourages delegates to explore the implications of Timor-Leste’s integration into the ASEAN community, focusing on the economic, political, and social dimensions of this accession. Key discussion points include the harmonization of Timor-Leste's policies with ASEAN standards, the potential benefits and challenges for both Timor-Leste and existing member states, and strategies to support Timor-Leste’s transition. Delegates will consider how to leverage Timor-Leste’s unique strengths and resources to enhance regional cooperation and solidarity.

Topic 2: Addressing the ongoing conflict in Myanmar and the status of the military government as a full member of ASEAN

Since Myanmar’s 2021 military coup that deposed the democratically-led government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, the country has been facing a grave crisis. Ethnic and political strife has escalated in recent years, and the country’s relationship with ASEAN has also soured, with the regional bloc not recognising the military junta as an official member. ASEAN itself has been split by internal divisions, with countries unable to come to an agreement on how they should approach the Myanmar issue. Delegates need to face this pressing challenge urgently. The conflict in Myanmar threatens to spill over into a refugee crisis impacting neighboring countries like Thailand. Discussion in this committee will focus on ASEAN’s ability to broker a peace plan between the military and the rebels that will bring stability to Myanmar, as well as, crucially, what the bloc can do to ensure that the government actually implements this plan in practice, given that similar initiatives in the past have all failed. In doing so, delegates ought to consider the various ways in which they can put pressure on Myanmar, be it through incentives like cross-border business or membership in ASEAN, or punishments like trade restrictions. At stake is ASEAN’s reputation and legitimacy, as its present failure to rein in the Myanmar government has led to a lack of trust among regional partners in its ability to serve as an effective regional organization.

+ CELAC - Community of Latin American and Caribbean States

This committee is a spanish language speaking committee

Chairs: Melanie Ulloa, Ingrid Rodriguez Villa

Introduction to the Committee: La Comunidad de Estados Latinoamericanos y Caribeños (CELAC) tiene como objetivo unificar la región, abordando desafíos colectivos y promoviendo el desarrollo mutuo. Este comité ofrece una oportunidad para que los delegados enfrenten cuestiones urgentes como la disparidad económica, la sostenibilidad ambiental y la seguridad regional en América Latina y el Caribe. Al fomentar perspectivas diversas y el pensamiento innovador, los delegados colaborarán para crear soluciones concretas que fomenten el crecimiento y la estabilidad.

Tema 1: Estrategias para Combatir la Violencia y el Tráfico de Drogas

América Latina representa aproximadamente un tercio de los homicidios relacionados con drogas en el mundo. La escalada de violencia y tráfico de drogas en la región plantea desafíos significativos para la estabilidad regional y la seguridad pública. Este tema exige una exploración exhaustiva de estrategias efectivas para combatir estos desafíos urgentes. Este tema se concentrará en fomentar la cooperación internacional para abordar las causas de la violencia y el tráfico de drogas y proponer resoluciones para estos problemas. Los delegados en este comité evaluarán una variedad de subtemas, incluyendo el mejoramiento de las leyes y las políticas, la distribución de recursos y participación comunitaria. Además, los delegados en este comité considerarán adoptar programas innovadores de prevención e intervención que podrían interrumpir las rutas de tráfico de drogas y reducir la violencia, mejorando así la paz y la seguridad en toda la región.

Tema 2: Mejorando la Seguridad Alimentaria mediante la Agricultura Sostenible

La inseguridad alimentaria sigue siendo un problema global, agravado por los desafíos ambientales y las prácticas agrícolas insostenibles. Este tema enfatiza la necesidad de adoptar un enfoque sostenible en la agricultura para mejorar la seguridad alimentaria. La discusión se centrará en desarrollar e implementar prácticas agrícolas sostenibles que aumenten la producción de alimentos minimizando al mismo tiempo el impacto ambiental. Los delegados en este comité considerarán estrategias para el uso del agua, la conservación de la tierra, y la preservación de la biodiversidad. Este tema tiene como objetivo fomentar el diálogo sobre tecnologías agrícolas innovadoras y políticas que apoyen el crecimiento sostenible y la resiliencia en los sistemas alimentarios. Además, este tema invita a los delegados a compartir sus conocimientos y experiencias en la transformación de las prácticas agrícolas para alcanzar los objetivos de seguridad alimentaria y sostenibilidad ambiental.

+ COMESA - Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa

Chairs: Caleb Nieh, Thomas Lowe, Hiroko Kawase

Introduction to the Committee: The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) aims to foster economic integration and development among its member states. This committee faces evolving political dynamics and economic challenges that threaten the cohesion and objectives of COMESA. Delegates are encouraged to engage in strategic discussions and propose innovative solutions that promote stability, economic growth, and integration across COMESA member states amidst these challenges.

Topic 1: Increasing interconnectedness through infrastructure

Enhancing the economic framework within COMESA countries has become imperative, given the pressing challenges posed by insufficient infrastructure. This topic focuses on upgrading rail, highway, and port facilities to unleash the region's full economic potential, which, as of 2019, stood at a combined GDP of $918.9 billion. Key elements include fostering collaboration among COMESA states to develop land, air, and sea freight routes and broader intra-regional infrastructure. Delegates will discuss the feasibility of funding these projects through avenues such as public-private partnerships and international foreign direct investment, along with establishing rigorous oversight mechanisms for fund distribution. Additionally, the topic addresses the need to secure these economic corridors against regional instability, which threatens essential trade routes. Delegates in COMESA will discuss infrastructure development and the importance of regional cooperation to ensure the security and stability of economic activities.

Topic 2: Working towards a closer economic union

The stated goal of COMESA is the creation of a unified economic region with a single currency, a common market, and a customs union. This is an enormous undertaking with countless political and administrative challenges. Within this topic, delegates will discuss how COMESA member states can move towards creating more harmonious and interconnected economies between COMESA countries, and address the most likely challenges they face. Namely, this topic will address how to depoliticize monetary policy, how to unify 21 economies that may not have aligned business cycles, how to enforce region wide regulatory standards, and how to harmonize external tariffs. While it is important to consider the formal mechanisms of achieving these goals, some of these policies are extremely controversial. As such, delegates must consider how to tailor the implementation of these policies towards the specific concerns of the citizens of COMESA countries (i.e. not imitating the European Union).

+ ECOWAS - Economic Community of West African States

Chairs: Kelton Moorman, Maya Moseley

Introduction to the Committee: On May 28, 1975, fifteen West African countries founded the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to promote collective self-sufficiency among its member states. This committee is set in the context of evolving political dynamics and economic challenges that threaten the cohesion and objectives of the union. Through diplomatic negotiations and strategic planning, Delegates are encouraged to think of innovative ideas that foster stability and prosperity across ECOWAS member states amidst these challenges.

Topic 1: Addressing the Withdrawal of Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali

On January 27, 2024, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali announced their decision to withdraw from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This development presents considerable challenges to regional stability, economic collaboration, and political unity. It necessitates a thorough examination of the reasons behind these withdrawals and an assessment of their implications for both the departing nations and the remaining member states. This topic will delve into potential strategies for reconciliation or restructuring the union to maintain and enhance cooperation among the remaining countries. Delegates are urged to consider a range of approaches, including diplomatic initiatives, economic adjustments, and legal frameworks, to address both immediate and future impacts of this withdrawal. Additionally, the committee will explore the role of international partners in supporting the region during this transition and in ensuring the stability and prosperity of the broader West African community.

Topic 2: Reducing Child Labor in West African Economies

The prevalence of child labor in West Africa continues to challenge international commitments to eliminate it, largely fueled by economic hardships and cultural norms. This topic calls for a strategic examination of methods to reduce child labor within West African economies. In ECOWAS, delegates will focus on refining legislative frameworks, bolstering enforcement mechanisms, and enhancing collaboration with international partners to safeguard children's rights across the region. Delegates are encouraged to discuss a variety of solutions, including policy reforms, capacity building, and community education, to address both immediate and systemic issues related to child labor. Additionally, this topic will emphasize the exploration of innovative economic and educational initiatives that could provide alternatives to child labor, thus promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for children in West Africa.

+ EU - European Union

Chairs: Olha Yarynich, Jack Dozier, Ariana Martinez

Introduction to the Committee: The European Union (EU) was established to ensure peace, stability, and economic cooperation among its member states and enhance European political and economic unification. This committee operates within a context of evolving geopolitical dynamics and complex economic challenges that test the unity and objectives of the EU. Delegates are tasked with engaging in strategic dialogue and developing innovative solutions to enhance stability, prosperity, and integration across the EU in the face of these challenges.

Topic 1: Developing a Unified Asylum Policy

The European refugee crisis has accentuated the necessity for a cohesive and comprehensive asylum policy among EU member states. This topic invites a detailed analysis of approaches to harmonize asylum protocols across the continent. Discussions will center on adjusting legal frameworks, standardizing application processes, and strengthening cooperation between member states to ensure the humane and efficient management of asylum applications. Delegates will discuss policies that address both short-term and long-term strategies, with an emphasis on balancing border security and humanitarian obligations. This topic will also focus on the implications of such policies on regional stability and the overall socio-economic impact within the EU. Moreover, delegates will evaluate the role of international organizations and non-governmental organizations in supporting these efforts, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of asylum policies through multilateral engagement and resource sharing.

Topic 2: Turkey Relations and Accession Negotiations

EU-Turkey Relations and Accession Negotiations are a complex and evolving facet of international diplomacy. This topic focuses on the multifaceted dynamics of the EU's enlargement policy and Turkey's accession process. Delegates will scrutinize key areas such as human rights, rule of law, economic reforms, and foreign policy alignment, which are pivotal for advancing Turkey's EU membership aspirations. Delegates are invited to debate and create innovative strategies that could facilitate progress in negotiations, enhance bilateral relations, and address the concerns of both parties. Furthermore, this topic will consider the geopolitical implications of Turkey's potential integration into the EU, including the impact on regional stability and economic integration. The goal of this topic is to develop and shape the future of EU-Turkey relations in the context of broader European affairs.

+ NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organization

Chairs: Karen Yang, Peter Nelson

Introduction to the Committee: How do we address cybersecurity threats and geopolitical tensions to ensure the security and stability of the North Atlantic region? Delegates will explore these critical issues, fostering a collaborative environment to share diverse perspectives and propose innovative strategies for current and future challenges. Founded on April 4, 1949, NATO aims to ensure collective defense and maintain peace. Amid evolving global threats and complex security challenges, this committee encourages delegates to develop solutions that enhance stability and security among member states.

Topic 1: Enhancing Security Infrastructure in Eastern Europe

As Eastern Europe faces mounting challenges from Russian aggression, enhancing the region's security infrastructure has become crucial. This initiative encompasses strengthening defense capabilities against military threats and expanding cybersecurity measures to counteract Russian cyber intelligence. A significant component of this strategy involves bolstering support for Ukraine, providing not only military aid but also humanitarian assistance, including education, shelter, and food in collaboration with organizations like UNICEF. Additionally, the effort aims to rebuild critical infrastructure, such as transportation networks and energy grids, while enhancing disaster management and emergency response capabilities. Beyond Ukraine and Russia, this strategic focus extends to other Eastern European nations, including Belarus, Moldova, Romania, the Balkans, the Baltic states, the Caucasus, and the Visegrád group. Special attention is given to the Western Balkans, where enhancing resilience against organized crime is vital due to the region’s historical vulnerabilities and the slow progress in fortifying relevant institutions.

Topic 2: Who Gets to Be a Member?

As global security dynamics evolve, determining eligibility for NATO membership becomes increasingly critical. This topic focuses on the comprehensive criteria required for NATO membership, evaluating geopolitical stability, democratic values, and military capabilities to ensure that potential members strengthen collective security. It examines the importance of economic stability, reflected in a country’s GDP, and the adherence to civil liberties as key indicators of a candidate's alignment with NATO's core values. Additionally, this topic considers the strategic implications of expanding beyond traditional geographical boundaries and the potential geopolitical tensions that may arise from new memberships. Delegates will explore how these multifaceted criteria not only determine eligibility but also contribute to the strategic coherence and effectiveness of the alliance in the global security landscape.

+ PIF - Pacific Islands Forum

Chairs: Maxwell Cota, Julia Rosado

Introduction to the Committee: The Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) aims to enhance regional cooperation and collective action. Amid evolving environmental and economic challenges, this committee encourages delegates to develop solutions that promote sustainability, stability, and growth among member states. Delegates in PIF will explore climate change and economic development, fostering a collaborative environment to share diverse perspectives and propose innovative strategies for current and future challenges that pacific island states face.

Topic 1: Protecting Vulnerable Communities from Rising Sea Levels

In recent decades, the phenomenon of rising sea levels has emerged as a pressing global issue, posing significant risks to coastal and low-lying communities. These areas, often inhabited by socio-economically vulnerable populations, face threats such as habitat loss, increased flooding, and potential displacement. The situation demands urgent international cooperation and innovative strategies to mitigate the impact of these changes and safeguard the livelihoods and cultures of affected communities. Delegates in PIF will focus on formulating multilateral responses that prioritize sustainable development, resilience building, and humanitarian considerations to adapt to and combat the consequences of rising sea levels. During the conference, delegates are encouraged to explore a variety of solutions, including technological advancements, infrastructural modifications, and policy reforms, to address both immediate and long-term challenges.

Topic 2: Developing Sustainable Tourism in Ecologically Sensitive Regions

As tourism continues to grow globally, ecologically sensitive regions face the dual challenge of capitalizing on economic opportunities while preserving their natural landscapes and biodiversity. These areas, critical to environmental health and cultural heritage, require careful management to prevent degradation from increased visitor traffic. Delegates in PIF will explore strategies for sustainable tourism that support economic development without compromising ecological integrity. During the conference, delegates will discuss implementing regulatory frameworks, promoting responsible travel practices, and encouraging community involvement to ensure that tourism contributes positively to both conservation efforts and local livelihoods. Additionally, this topic will involve the exploration of innovative eco-friendly technologies and the development of infrastructure that minimizes environmental impact to achieve sustainable tourism goals.

+ SCO - Shanghai Cooperation Organization

Chairs: Isabel Mestey-Colon, Micah Draper

Introduction to the Committee: The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) aims to strengthen mutual trust and neighborly relations and was founded to enhance security and stability among member states. Amid evolving geopolitical dynamics and economic uncertainties, this committee encourages delegates to develop solutions that enhance prosperity in the region. Delegates will explore security cooperation and economic integration, fostering a collaborative environment to share diverse perspectives.

Topic 1: Encouraging Cooperation in the Energy Sector

The energy sector—especially oil, natural gas, and coal—plays a vital role in the economies of SCO member states. Consisting of 40% of the world’s population, the SCO represents some of the world’s top energy consumers, as well as energy production superpowers such as Russia, China, and Iran. As economic growth slows and geopolitical tensions deepen across Eurasia, ensuring energy transportation, security, and self-sufficiency are becoming priorities for all parties involved. Some key questions for delegates to consider include: How can the SCO foster cooperation across different national energy industries? How will states resolve conflicts over energy resources? Should (and if so, how can) economies transition to cleaner energy sources?

Topic 2: Cybersecurity and Maintaining Preparedness against Cyber Attacks

In recent years, the principal concern of the SCO has been national security, especially against terrorism, separatism, and other forms of violent extremism. As the world digitalizes rapidly, these threats have expanded into the realm of cyber warfare. The every-changing nature of the digital world means that nations cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to identifying and defending against cyber threats to core industrial, financial, and political systems. A key question of this issue is the tradeoff between security and information privacy, especially across borders. Further, delegates should consider: How do nations stay alert and prepared to handle a cybersecurity threat? In what ways can governments regulate or collaborate with the private sector to ensure complete security? When, if ever, is proactive cyber warfare justified?

+ MERCOSUR - Mercado Común del Sur (Southern Common Market)

Chairs: Jason Lampert, Mohamed Diallo

Introduction to the Committee: On March 26, 1991, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay established the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) to enhance economic integration and development. This committee operates within the context of shifting political landscapes and economic uncertainties that threaten the unity and objectives of MERCOSUR. Through diplomatic dialogue and strategic initiatives, delegates are encouraged to develop forward-thinking solutions that promote stability and growth among MERCOSUR member states amidst these challenges.

Topic 1: Balancing International Trade and Environmental Sustainability

Amidst escalating concerns over environmental sustainability, this topic wishes to re-open the 2019 EU-MERCOSUR Trade Deal which is currently waiting to be passed in the European Parliament. This topic focuses on the complex interplay between advancing international trade and adhering to environmental standards. The deal has faced significant opposition from environmentalists and could be subject to rejection by the European Court due to potential violations of EU environmental regulations. Delegates within this committee are tasked with proposing amendments to the trade agreement that make it acceptable to European stakeholders while also being favorable to MERCOSUR member states. The goal is to create a harmonized framework that promotes economic growth and trade efficiency without compromising environmental integrity. This discussion will explore strategies to achieve a sustainable balance that supports both trade liberalization and environmental protection in the global arena.

Topic 2: Assessing China’s Influence in Latin America

This topic seeks to reassess Latin America’s relationship with China as the region navigates the intensifying rivalry between the US and China. Since China’s accession to the World Trade Organization, there has been a significant annual increase of 31% in bilateral trade between China and Latin American countries throughout the 2000s. China’s Belt and Road Initiative has further deepened this relationship by funding substantial infrastructure projects and providing affordable loans, which have made Latin American countries increasingly dependent on Chinese support. This topic will urge delegates to reassess Latin America’s ties with China, exploring potential topics such as the impact of the Chinese diaspora, joint military pacts, responses to COVID-19, collaborations in 5G technology, and positions on the Taiwan question. The goal of this topic is to develop a comprehensive understanding of China’s strategic presence in Latin America and its implications for regional and global geopolitics.

+ Avatar: The Last Airbender

Chairs: Kaya Basnet, Kelly Tran, Elena Im

Introduction to the Committee

Topic 1: Creation of a Post-War Nation

After the Hundred Year War, a devastating conflict led by the Fire Nation's imperialistic ambitions to conquer and dominate the other nations, the four nations must deal with the aftermath. This committee of benders and non-benders should work together as an intergovernmental council to build a constitution for a novel harmonious post-war society. This committee must work to resolve issues in this post-colonial world, such as land distribution, bending laws, and economic cooperation among the four nations.

Topic 2: Opening the Spirit World The Spirit World, a parallel dimension inhabited by spirits, mythical creatures, and spiritual energy, is essential to maintaining balance between both the physical and spiritual realms and acting as a bridge between humans and spirits. This committee must decide whether spirits and humans can coexist closely and whether they should be able to freely cross the borders between the two worlds (rather than just the Avatar). If so, what rules would be necessary to ensure the preservation of the spiritual realm as well as the physical safety of humans in the physical world?

+ Russian Civil War

Chairs: Christian Thomas, Chloe Ratner

Introduction to the Committee

Topic 1: Internal Politics of the Communist Party

With the Communist Party now the reigning party of Russia, the Party must decide what form of Communism and government it wants to establish. From Anarcho-Communism to Market Socialism, the Party has a wide range of ideas on how Russia should be run. The Party also needs to decide how it’ll handle the traitorous capitalists! It is now up to this committee to decide on a platform, structure, and direction for the Communist Party of the future!

Topic 2: State-Building

After overthrowing the Russian monarchy in the Bolshevik Revolution, Russian leaders have yet to establish a strong and stable Russian state. Additionally, by overturning the monarchy, Russia has shown itself to be volatile and weak on a worldwide scale. This committee should discuss how to proceed with creating a stable post-monarchy governmental body and a strong international position while remaining true to its communist roots.

+ Olympics 2052 - The 2052 Olympic Games

Chairs: Gloria Kunnapilly, Emily Macdougall, Lisa Tauch

Introduction to the Committee

Topic 1: Selecting the Prime Location

In 2045, the International Olympic Council decides to reconstruct its location selection process. Instead of the traditional bidding process, nations will send a delegate to advocate for why their country should host the 2052 Summer Olympic Games. There are a variety of important factors to consider such as regional stability, funding, environmental factors and more. This committee is tasked with deciding which location is best for the 40th Summer Olympic Games.

Topic 2: Inter-Nation Conflict

The IOC has never been without controversy. The 40th Summer Olympic Games will occur within the span of the conference, with twists and turns after every event. Delegates must work to address issues as the games happen, whether it be doping scandals, “rigged” Olympic selection processes, or brand new sports. In order to preserve the equitable future of the Olympic Games, delegates must work together to pave a new path for elite sports.

+ Meiji Restoration

Chairs: Dean Centa, James Richardson, Thomas Lin

Introduction to the Committee This committee is set to begin on April 1, 1886. This YMUN specialized committee will simulate the committee that convened to draft the Meiji Constitution, which historically came into effect on November 29, 1890. Delegates will first be tasked in Topic 1 to debate and write Japan’s new constitution, and in Topic 2 will be asked to develop domestic and foreign policy to lead Japan through the country’s transitionary period.

Topic 1: Writing the Meiji Constitution

This topic is set to begin on April 1, 1886.

After over 250 years of life under the rule of the Tokugawa Shogunate, the past two decades have marked a significant change for Japan. After a coup d’etat ousting the shogun and reinstating Emperor Meiji as the ruler of Japan in 1868, nearly every aspect of Japanese life has changed. The samurai – the warrior class of Japan – have lost much of their power, trade with Western countries has brought new technology and ideas flooding into the country, and the government is now run by a young group of politicians who are pushing to Westernize in spite of tradition and customs. Yet for the past 18 years, the new government has ruled without any set-in-stone political structure. The Emperor has promised the public that a constitution will be promulgated by the end of this decade, and has sent many of his trusted advisors around the world to study European political systems. This committee is thus tasked with writing a new Constitution for Meiji era Japan. The clock is ticking.

Topic 2: ‘Kokutai’ – Japanese Militarism amidst Westernization

This topic is set to begin on April 1, 1890.

With Emperor Meiji reinstated as the leader of Japan and a new constitution put into place, it is now time to put this new political structure to use and govern. At the heart of this new government is the idea of ‘kokutai’ – an ambiguous word that means “system of government” but also “national identity”. As political structures, trade agreements, and technological advancements continue to Westernize society, simultaneously there is a growing nationalist sentiment among the citizenry. This clash of ideas is crucial to determining how the next two decades – and more – will turn out for Japan, especially with military conflicts popping up both in the region and around the world. This committee is tasked with assessing recent conflicts abroad and deciding how the new Japanese government will choose to respond. When crafting this young government’s foreign policy, the committee should consider the relationship between Westernization and nationalism – are they mutually exclusive or can they coexist?

+ Theranos

Chairs: Faisal Patel, Braeden Cullen, Ishan Narra, Olivia Lombardo

Introduction to the Committee

Topic 1: Product Authenticity

Recently, Theranos has been under severe scrutiny for potentially producing false results for their new blood test pathogen detecting device. Whether Theranos’ products are authentic or not is still up for debate. This board of directors must defend Theranos’ public image and withstand criticism on the validity of Theranos’ revolutionary invention (or fake it long enough to invent it). This committee must also develop solutions to keep the media and government invested in Theranos’ ideas without calling Theranos’ (potential) bluff.

Topic 2: Company Growth

Theranos has the opportunity to corner an untapped part of the bio-tech market with their novel, at-home, blood testing kit. Besides fighting off controversy, this board of directors must figure out how to acquire funding for the company, support investors, and sustainably grow the company. By answering questions like who will fund Theranos, how much equity will investors receive, and how products will be produced and distributed, this board of directors can find a way to secure Theranos and its shareholders riches for decades to come. The committee must also consider how to build a company from the ground up, navigating FDA rules, organizational structure, and competing visions.

+ 2100: The End of the World

Chairs: Madeline Pitre, Camila Perez, Caroline Utermann

Introduction to the Committee The year is 2100. For decades, politicians ignored the warnings of scientists and climate activists. The world average temperature has far surpassed the 2.5-degree mark. Crop shortages and rising sea levels have caused mass migration. Deadly heat waves in equatorial regions have led to scorched earth and increasing pressure on the global food supply chain. Last week, a gigantic swarm of locusts was identified in the North American Midwest– it is moving northwards and destroying the last significant swathes of land left for agriculture. Scientists suspect the locusts have been genetically engineered. Meanwhile, debates have raged about whether resources should be redirected towards a different frontier: space exploration.

Topic 1: Biology to the Rescue?

A committee of bioengineers, ethicists, and politicians have come together to discuss the role of genetic engineering in the food and climate crisis. Who is responsible for the locust swarm, and should it be considered bioterrorism, potentially the first of many instances? How can we engineer crops to be robust against these predators and against these new climate conditions? What are the ethical implications of all of this? Who stands to profit, especially as the committee grapples with priorities in distribution?

Topic 2: Physics to the Rescue?

A committee of physicists, astronauts, and politicians have come together to discuss the possibility of establishing a human colony in the Alpha Centauri system on Proxima Centauri B, a distant planet that has been identified as potentially habitable. This group must balance geopolitical tensions while mobilizing rapid scientific advancement as they grapple to direct a team to lead this charge. Who will fund this mission, and how will responsibilities be divided? Who should be selected to go, and should we focus on their survival over that of those left behind? find another home in the cosmos?

+ Council of Philosophers

Chairs: Lee-Ann Kao, Vinny Sriram

Introduction to the Committee In this committee, delegates will take on the role of various prominent philosophers throughout history. Delegates will be given the chance to emulate the ideologies of these philosophers to tackle the grave political and economic institutional problems facing many modern countries.

Topic 1: Redesigning the State: Crafting the Ideal Constitution

Throughout history, numerous forms of government have been tried. Following the end of the Cold War, democracy seemed to have emerged as the dominant ideology for structuring the state. However, today, we are witnessing a crisis of democracy as many states experience backsliding towards autocratic regimes, and citizen satisfaction with democratic regimes continues to grow. As William Churchill once said, “ Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of Government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” If we could start from scratch and redesign the state in accordance with the values we see fit for society and the role government plays, what might such a state look like?

Topic 2: The Distribution of Resources in Society

Modern economics is founded on the idea that resources are scarce, and we must decide how to distribute scarce resources in a society filled with infinite demands. Different systems of property distribution and resource allocation have been tried throughout history, some prioritizing equality above all, others progress above all, and yet others state control. In thinking about the values of an ideal society acting within a global landscape, having to consider the actions of other states and the international market, how ought we set up the distribution of resources with the interests of the citizens and state in mind. Should we distribute resources uniformly equally, shall we distribute resources based on what will yield the greatest utility, should individuals have to earn resources through academic achievement?

+ Titanic

Chairs: Eshi Nair, Alicia Deng, Nicole Liang

Introduction to the Committee The Titanic has now set sail. You are a member of the RTAC and were individually chosen from the 2,240 crew members and passengers in order to serve the larger population aboard the ship. With the RTAC’s influence over the operations and decisions that could determine the ship’s destiny, their goal was to maintain crew and passenger relationships, aid Captain Edward John Smith as needed, and make the Titanic a safe and pleasant place to be.

Topic 1: It’s April 10th, 1912, and the Titanic has just set sail, as tensions arise among the passengers and crew members. They overhear that the weather is going to be too dangerous, but Captain Smith claims that everything is fine. As a group forms a mutiny to rebel against the captain, it’s up to the RMS Titanic Advisory Committee to resolve this conflict before the Titanic begins to tread into dangerous waters.

Topic 2: A successful first few days of the ship’s maiden voyage are interrupted by warnings of drifting ice. By the time the Titanic’s inevitable doom comes into sight, it’s too late and the ship cannot avoid the iceberg. The three hour countdown begins and the RMS Titanic Advisory Committee must decide: do they call to nearby ships for help, start allocating crew and passengers onto lifeboats, or does this become a catastrophic free-for-all?

+ Argentine Financial Crisis

Chairs: Everett Yum, Benjamin Plana

Introduction to the Committee: After military coups and successive financial crises, this committee will determine the best way to revive Argentina’s economy. On this council, delegates will focus on and solve Argentina’s most recent fiscal crisis as representatives of the state and people, expediting your legislative approval and ability to act.

Topic 1:

It’s July 8, 1989, and the six years since Argentina’s return to democracy have been challenging. The economy is struggling, the people remain scared from the recent brutal authoritarian regime, and political instability is widespread. The nation urgently needs a path forward, and you have been chosen to help guide it.

+ The Manchuria Trials

Chairs: Ivan Lam, Dennis Jin, Caleb Nieh

Topic 1:

The medical experimentation performed by Unit 731 during the Japanese invasion of Manchuria was used to develop chemical and biological warfare. Many of these experiments were performed under cruel conditions and with no regard to patient safety and health. While the International Military Tribunal for the Far East tried Japanese military officials for many conventional war crimes, the panel will seek to determine an ethical code of conduct and judgement for six doctors for their human experimentation, creating precedent for inhumane medical treatment going forward.

Topic 2:

Sadly, the human experimentation was conducted and data was collected. The panel will determine the best course of action for dealing with this data based on its uniqueness, uses, and ability for equitable division. In doing this, the panel must remember the unethical nature of the data collection and the possibly damaging uses for this data. These considerations will make this decision one with significant implications for future medical malpractices and controversial research.

+ Mongolian Empire 1227

Chairs: Estelle Balsirow, Victoria Siebor

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to Mongolia! The year is 1227, and the empire has recently suffered a great loss. Amidst funerary services and tension on the borders, two issues are coming to the forefront of every Mongolian’s mind. To put these questions to rest, a committee has been gathered in Karakorum. This committee is made up of ambitious Mongolians, territorial foreign leaders, and the former leaders of conquered territories. The future of the Mongolian empire rests in the hands of these leaders.

Topic 1: The Death of Genghis Khan

On the 25th of August, 1227, the founder and first khan of the Mongol Empire died from fatal complications relating to a hunting accident earlier in the year. With his eldest son, Jochi, dying in February 1227, the empire’s succession is currently up in the air. While Genghis’ other sons argue for the throne, other powers vie for control of the dominating force that has shaped the beginning of the 13th century. Delegates will argue for their rightful claim to the Mongol throne and create alliances, backstab rivals, and strategize their way to the largest seat of power in their lifetime. The primary goal of the committee is for rulers within and outside of the Mongol sphere to discuss the future of the empire, but delegates are encouraged to also negotiate deals with the other leaders for land and power.

Topic 2: Negotiating Borders of a New Empire

The new Mongol ruler has now inherited the vast empire. After imposing taxes on conquered territories and strengthening power in Karakorum, the Mongol empire seeks to expand east and west. In the tumult of the selection process, though, other empires and rulers saw signs of weakness. Now, many have their sights set on stopping Mongolian expansion. The members of the committee are now tasked with determining just how far the Mongolian empire will be able to go — will they continue growing unchallenged, or will an opposition from that will be strong enough to stop them?

+ Queen Elizabeth's Court 1560

Chairs: Ava Seymour, Amelie Liu, Alyssa Toussaint

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to Buckingham Palace! The year is 1569, and the era is marked by significant religious conflict between the Catholics and Protestants and internal strife caused by the divisive figure of Mary Queen of Scots to the ongoing threats of French and Spanish ambitions. The realm is freshly stabilized by the newly established Treaty of Edinburgh, yet internal fragmentation, constant threats of foreign intrigue, and domestic rebellion remain a constant fear. Prepare to navigate the Golden Age where every decision can alter the course of history. The fate of England rests in your hands.

Topic 1: Religion

While residing in England under house arrest, Queen Mary transformed herself into a staunch Catholic and emerged as a contender for the English throne. With Elizabeth's implementation of a new religious order in 1559, the ousted Scottish Queen became a significant source of instability, rallying disenchanted Catholics to her cause. Consequently, plots and conspiracies multiplied, such that, in 1569, Catholic nobles from Northern England staged a revolt to replace Queen Elizabeth I of England with Mary, Queen of Scots. In light of this event, it is imperative for this committee to recognize the gravity of the situation at hand and work collectively towards finding viable solutions to prevent further escalation of tensions. Will the Court of Elizabeth stay Protestant or appease the Catholic Nobles and adopt the Catholic religion?

Topic 2: Territory

After rejecting King Phillip’s proposal in 1559, Queen Elizabeth gave England religious autonomy but internal rebellions and external aggressions emerged, particularly from neighboring countries like Spain and France, as well as ongoing tensions in Ireland. The Northern Rebellion of 1569 highlighted the fragility of English control over its northern regions, where Catholic sentiment remained strong. Meanwhile, Ireland presented a continuous source of unrest, with the Desmond Rebellions and other uprisings challenging English rule. The Treaty of Edinburgh (1560) ended direct military conflicts in Scotland but left unresolved tensions that could be exploited by foreign powers. France and Spain, both Catholic countries, viewed England’s Protestant regime with animosity, often considering or attempting invasions or supporting rebellions. How will this committee determine not only the security of England’s borders but also its position as a leading power?

+ Ship to...Shore?

Chairs: Andrey Sokolov, Annie Gu

Introduction to the Committee: ....Hello? Can anyone hear us? Please…we don't know where we are.....

.....Hello? Please! This is the USS Anna, we've capsized and are severely in need of assistance. Someone please come get us, we have wounded people here. We do not know where we are, and we are afraid that we are not alone. Please save us…....

Welcome to Ship to …Shore? The purpose of this committee is to provide a thrilling and unconventional MUN experience. You have washed up on an unknown island with limited resources and individuals of varying characteristics, skills, and health statuses. Over the course of this committee, you will need to utilize your creativity, diligence, and the spirit of cooperation to not only survive, but thrive all the while stranded at sea.

Resource management, work allocation, and exploration is inbound. Delegates, your survival is in your own hands.

Topic 1: Rome Wasn't Built in a Day: Let’s Stay

We are incredibly lucky to have washed ashore this strange archipelago. Though leaving is our ultimate goal, staying on the island has its perks! You can build up your current encampment to start stocking supplies, bettering your technology, and get yourself a higher likelihood of surviving. You can also move your encampment around the island or split off from others. Do not get too comfortable, however! Nobody knows anything about this island, and it's kind of scary! We have no idea what we're dealing with, as well as the following questions: How big is the island? What resources are on the island? What else is on the island? And are they friend or foe? Is it worth it to stay?

Topic 2: This was a Total Shipwreck: Let’s Go Home

Acknowledging the dire circumstances that you are currently in, should you and the other castaways stay on the island or try to leave?

There's no guarantee that the island is the optimal place to live — and we all have families! It only makes sense to begin our escape efforts right away, as opposed to trying to recreate life in the middle of the Pacific. Planning our way out of here immediately ensures that we do not lose our sense of purpose. At the same time, the journey is daunting, and we will need to plan it out perfectly before executing it. Here's some questions to consider: What is needed to embark on this journey? How can we guarantee survival on this journey to leave? Is this risk worth it? Is it possible or even worth it to try and establish connections back home?

+ Chinese Communist Party 1933

Chairs: Adam Bear, Kyran Blau, Eric Zhang

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to Southeastern China! The year is 1933, and the nation is deeply divided. The civil war rages on, with national control at stake. This committee is tasked with navigating the waters of this complex political scene. Much of the future of the party, and the nation, is up to the delegates gathered here today. But with great power comes great responsibility. Delegates must work together - or apart - to bring the Chinese Communist Party to full power, or else they risk collapse. How will you contribute to the war effort?

Topic 1a: Leadership Crisis

The Chinese Civil War between the Kuomintang (KMT) and Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has now been ongoing for 6 years with no clear victor. Japan has conquered Manchuria and expanded its sphere of influence as China has sat idly ruled by warlords, Chiang Kai Shek of the nationalists, and the CCP. Until this point, the Communists have been fractured between Mao Zedong thought and Russian Marxist orthodox communism. In this committee, delegates will be tasked with finding leadership for the tumultuous and fractured CCP and unifying the party under one ideology. There is no doubt that Mao Zedong’s appealing ideology contributed to the eventual victory of the CCP in the war. It is therefore imperative that delegates establish a leader with a clear ideological purpose for the future of China.

Topic 1b: The Chinese Civil War

The war is raging on in south-eastern China, the CCP is slowly being surrounded by KMT forces. It is essential for the CCP to resolve its leadership issues and launch a plan to fight KMT forces or tactically retreat. If the CCP doesn’t do this, loss in the civil war is inevitable and the “corruption of the republican government” will take over China and hurt the greater people. For the KMT it is essential to successfully encircle the CCP in order to ensure a successful and democratic future for China. It is up to both sides to successfully launch a military campaign, for the KMT to finish the job, or for the CCP to launch anew.

Topic 2: The Second Japanese Invasion

The Japanese have occupied Manchuria since 1931, but neither side of the civil war considered the Japanese a bigger threat than their ideological enemy. Since then, Japan has captured the major cities of Beijing and Shanghai. As global tensions increase and the Second World War looms, the KMT and CCP are faced with the decision of whether to unite to fight the Japanese, or attempt to secure their own power. It is 1937, and the KMT capital, Nanjing, is under threat of invasion. Delegates from the CCP must decide whether to form an alliance with the KMT to protect China, or continue their war to establish a communist government in China.

+ Ad Hoc

Chairs: Evelyn Jiang, Charlie Patton, Chris Tillen, Thomasin Schmults

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to [REDACTED]. The year is [REDACTED] and [REDACTED] have encroached on [REDACTED]. We’ve gathered an elite assembly of the [REDACTED], [REDACTED], and [REDACTED] here today to tackle the issue at hand. Additionally, we've called in [REDACTED] for [REDACTED]. The committee will [REDACTED] with [REDACTED] and it will span the course of [REDACTED]. Delegates will have to [REDACTED] carefully, as recent intelligence suggests that [REDACTED] have [REDACTED]. Trust no one and stay [REDACTED]. Do not [REDACTED]. We are relying on all of you to [REDACTED] and [REDACTED], ensuring that [REDACTED] can together [REDACT] this [REDACTED].

The Ad Hoc Committee of the Secretary General is a high level crisis committee that challenges delegates to truly think on their feet. Delegates will receive information about the topic at the beginning of the first committee session and will have a brief research period to learn about the subject before beginning debate. Delegates are not expected to submit position papers, so all delegates will be eligible for awards in the Ad Hoc committee.

Topic: Coming Soon!

+ Ragnarök 2.0: Conference of the Gods

Chairs: Nick Liu, George Cheung, Kade Gajdusek

Introduction to the Committee: “It was an axe age, a sword age; a wind age, a wolf age.” With omen after menacing omen—an earthquake striking Yale’s Campus, a solar eclipse, Kendrick Lamar’s “euphoria” drop—Heimdall’s famed Gjallarhorn has finally sounded, and Ragnarök has begun — not in the age of Vikings, but in our very own. The signs of this contemporary apocalypse, as the recently-freed trickster God Loki announces, should have been obvious to the world: the stirrings of frost and fire giants are exacerbating climate change and temperature anomalies, and Jörmungandr, the ocean-bound World Serpent, has pushed up tidal levels and disturbed polar ice caps. In the coming days, the rest of Ragnarök will come to full fruition: the sun and moon will be swallowed, the jötunn Surtr will destroy the rainbow Bifröst bridge, and with a void consuming all, it will be as if the universe’s original creation had never occurred.

In a last-ditch effort at self-preservation, the Norse Gods have decided to concert their efforts one last time to fight off impending doom. Odin, Lord of Asgard, believes that the old legends wrote off Ragnarök as inevitable because they assumed that the Norse Gods would stand alone at the end of time. Performing a forbidden spell, he summons to his council room a number of gods and deities from realms outside of Asgard, imploring them for their aid.

With this new Pantheon assembled, Odin is confident that a solution to Ragnarök can be found. However, he has failed to factor in a crucial element—while every council member has some capability to offset Ragnarök’s various aspects, not all of them will handle the crisis in the same way. Some believe that Ragnarök is necessary to facilitate universal rebirth. Others delight in the chaos and destruction to come. Each god has their own stake in the situation and their own terms. With various agendas, superhuman powers, and divine egos now in conflict, Odin realizes that presiding over this council and avoiding Ragnarök may be a harder task than originally anticipated.

This committee, through the reinterpretation of a mythological event, hopes to approach contemporary issues in a creative, intellectually-exciting way. It aims to demonstrate the urgent nature of the world’s present existential challenges and reveal how they are incredibly intricate and multifaceted even when divine abilities are at play. By applying traditional systems of belief to the dynamism of the modern world, it hopes to impart to delegates that international issues can only be addressed when we listen to one another in value-informed, empathetic ways.

Topic 1: Modern-Day Ragnarok

Ragnarök has arrived in 2025, and it is up to Odin’s newly-convened council of gods to figure out what to do. Each aspect of the coming apocalypse is not only mythological but also tied to a contemporary, real-world crisis. The incoming Fimbulvetr (Great Winter), for example, is not only a result of sorcery but of anthropogenic climate catastrophe. Likewise, the arrival of the Naglfar (Ship of the Dead) will bring global pandemics alongside ghouls and monsters back to Earth, and the Yggdrasil (World Tree) will fall after the world’s forests have been chewed through both by Fenris Wolf and human deforestation. The council must find a way to put their differences aside to mitigate the tangible effects of Ragnarök while searching for a way to end the apocalypse at its core—whether it lies purely in the realm of myth or elsewhere.

Topic 2: New World Order

With Ragnarök (hopefully) avoided, and various contemporary crises mitigated if not resolved, Odin realizes that he has no way to undo his summoning spell. To their annoyance, each of the summoned deities is now trapped in our reality. How can the council draft a constitution that distributes the powers and responsibilities of each god across the mortal realm? In what ways will this council relate to the government organs of the mortal world? And how can it draft and enact policies that can ward off a reemergence of the long-term issues it was convened to originally deal with?

+ JCC: Mars- The Expanse

Chairs: Samad Hakani, Shane Zhang

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to 2350! Technology has developed to the point where space travel is prevalent, but interstellar travel is still out of reach. The solar system has three driving forces: the United Nations of Earth and Luna, the Martian Congressional Republic on Mars, and the Outer Planets Alliance (located in the Asteroid Belt). The more powerful United Nations and Martians exploit the resource-rich, but decentralized, OPA, developing tensions among the three forces. This committee, representing the Martian Congressional Republic, will need to carefully navigate the political, social, and military landscape through this crucial moment in history.

Topic 1: Controlling the Asteroid Belt

In the distant future, the solar system plays host to a new cold war. At the center is control of the Asteroid Belt, rich with resources and the gateway to the rest of the Solar System. Earth is on the decline, but with a larger fleet still poses a threat for control of the Belt. The Martian Congressional Republic is dead set on terraforming their planet with the resources from the OPA. With the United Nations becoming more and more aggressive, the MCR has begun ramping up their fleet in anticipation of conflict. It’s up to this committee, made up of Martians once considered Earth's brightest minds, to lead the fleet in its campaign to colonize and control the Belt.

Topic 2: An Unexpected Engagement

Topic 2 will be fully disclosed to delegates during committee at YMUN. For now, all there is to know is that a surprising discovery will change the future of galactic living. Curious yet?

+ JCC: Earth- The Expanse

Chairs: Jeb Cui, Alexander Lam

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to 2350! Technology has developed to the point where space travel is prevalent, but interstellar travel is still out of reach. The solar system has three driving forces: the United Nations of Earth and Luna, the Martian Congressional Republic on Mars, and the Outer Planets Alliance (located in the Asteroid Belt). The more powerful United Nations and Martians exploit the resource-rich, but decentralized, OPA, developing tensions among the three forces. This committee, the voice of the United Nations of Earth and Luna, will need to carefully navigate the political, social, and military landscape through this crucial moment in history.

Topic 1: Controlling the Asteroid Belt

In the distant future, the solar system plays host to a new cold war. At the center is control of the Asteroid Belt, rich with resources and the gateway to the rest of the Solar System. Earth is an empire in decline, clinging onto the resources of the Belt with its massive yet aging fleet. Mars, colonized by the best and brightest of Earth, is a society focused on a single goal: turning a lifeless rock into a garden by terraforming the red planet. But for years, viewing Earth’s aggression as an existential threat, Mars has turned its focus towards militarization. Now, it wields a technologically superior but smaller fleet in a gambit to usurp control of the Belt. It’s up to this committee to lead Earth against the growing power of Mars, securing its grip on the asteroid belt.

Topic 2: An Unexpected Engagement

Topic 2 will be fully disclosed to delegates during committee at YMUN. For now, all there is to know is that a surprising discovery will change the future of galactic living. Curious yet?

+ Arctic Council: Navigating Challenges in the Arctic Frontier

Chairs: Arshnoor Kaur, Breanna Nguyen, Anette Diaz

Introduction to the Committee: As ice caps melt in the Arctic Ocean, land masses previously under water are resurfacing, including the Lomonosov Ridge as well as various other islands and archipelagos. This has also opened up new shipping routes and access to natural resources. With conflicting interests, powers in the Arctic region vie for control over strategic new territories. Amidst this race for a new frontier, members of the Arctic Council must negotiate sovereignty claims, environmental protection measures, and international cooperation agreements to maintain stability in the region.

Topic 1: Territorial Claims and Resource Extraction

The Arctic Council is currently composed of representatives from eight member states and six Arctic Indigenous Peoples organizations. With the unveiling of this new frontier, members of the council will stake overlapping claims to the territory based on factors such as historical presence, geological features, and continental shelf extensions. Since the Arctic region presents untapped potential for the oil, natural gas, mining, and fishing industries, economic interests may get in the way of standard negotiations. Historically disputed regions such as the Lomonosov Ridge will be particularly controversial due to their ability to set precedent for territorial divisions in the region. Delegates will be tasked with examining the merit of various territorial claims, negotiating boundary agreements, and maintaining stability in the Arctic Circle during this tumultuous period in history. They will also discuss the economic potential of Arctic resources and how territorial disputes may impact extraction activities.

Topic 2: Environmental Protection and Climate Change Adaptation

The impact of melting ice caps in the Arctic region is ongoing, with the addition of increased human activity almost guaranteed to worsen environmental damage to Arctic ecosystems. Efforts toward preservation of these ecosystems will likely involve mitigating habitat disturbance, biodiversity loss, and other effects of climate change as well as regulating human tourism, shipping, and resource extraction. Delegates will address the establishment of a regulatory framework for activity in this region and consider development of comprehensive policy measures to balance environmental protection with economic development efforts in the Arctic.

+ The Dance of the Dragons

Chairs: Ben Rosenthal, Emmet Houghton

Introduction to the Committee: Welcome to King’s Landing, delegates! We are incredibly excited to be your chairs for what promises to be a fiery committee of politics and fantasy inspired by HBO’s House of the Dragon. Only cunning judgment and tactical savvy will aid you in navigating the royal court and planting your banner in the history of the world of ice and fire. King Viserys’s prudent leadership has tethered the kingdoms to peace, but Westeros is suspended in uncertainty as his death looms ever closer and lords raise questions about his succession. Will you maintain the delicate peace, or will the kingdoms be engulfed in the breath of your dragons? Remember, when you play the game of thrones, you win or you die.

Topic 1:

King’s Landing is peaceful for now, but the tensions are high as Rhaenyra and the Hightowers, led by the Queen and the Hand, jockey for power at court. King Viserys is the only man keeping the realm together, but he could die any day. Will the peace be maintained when he is gone, or will the Targaryens plunge the Seven Kingdoms into civil war?