Agenda Topics MUN2025
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General Assembly (GA)
General Assembly (GA1)
Genocide of Uyghur Muslims in China
To be updated, this topic is currently under review.
General Assembly (GA2)
Crisis in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso has been in a state of instability since a military coup in 2022. Armed groups, linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS, have escalated violence, especially in northern and eastern regions, attacking villages, government forces, and schools, in an attempt to gain control over the country. These factors have led to widespread displacement and fear. Burkina Faso is facing a severe humanitarian and security crisis which has also disrupted local economies, agriculture, and essential services, causing food shortages and deepening poverty. Political instability has weakened the government's ability to respond effectively. This crisis has resulted in nearly 2 million people being displaced and in urgent need of humanitarian aid, making it a priority issue for the international community and the UN. How can the UN address the political crisis, violence, and humanitarian needs in Burkina Faso?
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Global Security (1A, 1B, 1C, 1d)
State Sponsored Cyber Espionage
As the internet of things (IoT) grows, so too does the amount of data being transferred online. This availability of data has led states to increase their cyber espionage activities. An example of state-sponsored espionage is the reported cyber operations by China against various nations to steal sensitive information and disrupt government processes like APT1’s operations that targeted sectors like manufacturing, defense, and industrial espionage. In light of these challenges, how can the UN facilitate collaboration among member states to enhance cybersecurity measures and promote resilience against such threats? What mechanisms can be implemented to hold states accountable for their cyber activities?
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Autonomous Weapons Systems
The use of Artificial Intelligence in warfare, particularly autonomous weapon systems (AWS), raises significant ethical, legal, and humanitarian concerns. AWS are weapon systems that “ select targets and apply force without human intervention”. AI in warfare began in the mid-20th century with initial theoretical developments, progressed through UAVs in the Gulf War, and has evolved into ongoing debates about regulating AWS in modern military applications. AWS poses risks, including complex AI systems creating command-and-control challenges, accelerated decision-making leading to automation biases, and the potential for an arms race that could heighten tensions among nations. There is also the ethical aspect—autonomous targeting of humans by machines—which represents a moral line that should not be crossed. Machines capable of taking lives without human involvement should be prohibited by international law. However, countries like the United States, China, Russia, and the UK see AWS as a means to enhance operational efficiency and strategic advantage. A 2021 report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) indicated that 60 countries are developing military AI, with many focusing on autonomous systems. The International Data Corporation (IDC) estimated worldwide spending on military AI will reach $11.4 billion in 2024. What can the UN do to restrict the use of AI and AWS in warfare? What measures can the UN take to prevent an arms race involving autonomous weapons among nations? What ethical guidelines should the UN implement for AI use in military operations?
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Pandemic Response Protocols
On March 11, 2020, the WHO declared COVID-19 a pandemic, a widespread occurrence of an infectious disease. Many governments were unprepared, which led to shortages in medical supplies, healthcare professionals, and other necessities. Different countries could not reach an agreement on how to best prevent the spread of the disease, which only led to more infections. In August 2024, the WHO declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. Currently, as permafrost is melting, concern is growing among scientists about the possible release of new deadly bacteria that humans have never encountered. It is evident that there needs to be a coordinated protocol should another pandemic occur. What steps should the UN take to prepare for a future pandemic? What can the UN do to ensure that there will be a consensus among its members?
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Improving UN Peacekeeping
For the last 30 years, UN peacekeeping missions in conflict zones have faced many challenges. Their missions have shown the need for improvement. The UN peacekeepers’ response to the 2010 Haiti earthquake showed the limitations in rapid response coordination among UN peacekeeping forces, which were unprepared for such a massive humanitarian crisis. Another instance of the failure of UN peacekeeping forces is the ongoing civil war in the Central African Republic (CAF) which has shown that peacekeepers often struggle to protect civilians due to insufficient resources that do not support the missions that the peacekeepers on the site have. It is clear the UN needs to reassess its strategies and focus on improving training for peacekeepers in conflict-ridden areas through working with local and regional organizations for aid and peacekeeping. How can the UN better cooperate with local organizations to better understand the needs of the people? What specific steps can the UN take to ensure that enough peacekeeping forces are present and are effective in protecting human rights?
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Global Economy (2A, 2b, 2c)
Private Space Companies
The exponential growth of private space companies has transformed the space industry, creating new economic opportunities through satellite deployment, space tourism, and resource extraction. The commercial space industry has immense potential, with the industry estimated to be worth $1.8 trillion by 2035. Outside successful US companies SpaceX and Blue Origin, many space companies have developed such as China’s i-Space, Germany’s Isar-Aerospace, and India’s Skyroot Aerospace. However, this rapid commercialization of space travel poses significant challenges. The potential monopolization of space resources, such as lunar minerals and asteroid mining, could lead to geopolitical tensions and economic disparities, with wealthier nations and companies dominating access over developing nations The increased launch frequency raises concerns about space debris, which could threaten the sustainability of space activities and increase costs for all users. Further, the increase in emissions from rocket launches threatens to only worsen the climate crisis. Is there a way to ensure equitable and sustainable growth in the privatization of space? Is there a way to protect the environment while doing so?
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Green Jobs
The rise of green jobs globally has become a critical topic as the world shifts towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly economic practices. Green jobs refer to employment in sectors that contribute to preserving or restoring the environment, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainable agriculture. This transition is driven by international efforts to combat climate change, including commitments made under the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Countries around the world are investing in renewable energy technologies like wind, solar, and bioenergy, leading to the creation of millions of new jobs in these fields. For example, China leads in solar energy employment, while Germany and the United States are expanding their wind energy sectors. However, the rise of green jobs also comes with challenges, such as ensuring a just transition for workers in traditional industries like coal and oil, who may need retraining or other support to transition into green sectors. How can the UN and organizations like the International Labour Organization (ILO) create policies that foster job creation in green sectors while ensuring equity and inclusion in this transition? How can the UN ensure that developing countries will be included in this economic growth?
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Effects of Climate Change on Small Island Developing States
While climate change continues to affect the globe, many of the countries that are most affected also lack the resources to respond. Some of the impacts of climate change on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), such as the Maldives, Fiji, and the Bahamas are particularly devastating. These nations are highly vulnerable to climate change due to their geographical and economic conditions, facing threats like rising sea levels and extreme weather, which severely impact tourism and agriculture—key industries for their economies. The economic strain of rebuilding after disasters and investing in climate adaptation is overwhelming for these small economies. The UN, through frameworks like the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and UN Development Programme (UNDP), advocates for increased climate financing, supports adaptation projects, and promotes global climate action to protect SIDS. For example, the Maldives is working closely with the UN to secure funds and international support to counter the existential threat posed by rising sea levels. This issue highlights the need for climate justice and international cooperation to support vulnerable economies in the face of global environmental challenges. How can the UN assist SIDS in renovating existing infrastructure, and creating new infrastructure that can withstand the effects of climate change?
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Implications of Rare-earth Mineral Mining
The economic implications of rare earth metal mining are pivotal in the transition to renewable energy, as these metals are critical for high-demand technologies like electric vehicles and wind turbines. The concentration of mining operations in countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and China creates supply chain vulnerabilities and heightens global dependence on these regions. This reliance exposes industries to geopolitical risks and price volatility, threatening the stability of green energy markets. The developing countries that have high supplies of these metals are in a unique position to create a powerful economy, but continue to be exploited by corporations of developed countries. How can the UN promote sustainable mining practices, reducing economic dependency, and fostering global cooperation to ensure a stable supply of these crucial materials while supporting ethical labor practices and environmental protections? Can the United Nations help establish equitable markets to prevent exploitation by developed countries?
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https://hir.harvard.edu/not-so-green-technology-the-complicated-legacy-of-rare-earth-mining/
Human Rights (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d)
Union Rights Violations
The right for workers to join and organize a union to collectively bargain with employers, is fundamental for economic equity. However, this freedom has been repeatedly suppressed throughout history. Many countries continue to inhibit union activities through legal restrictions, harassment, or even violence. This includes preventing workers from organizing, intimidating union leaders, and refusing to recognize unions. These violations are particularly severe in specific industries, including agriculture, textile, and technology. In 2023, 77% of countries excluded working people from the right to establish or join a trade union, and this year, 74% of countries impeded the registration of trade unions. While some workers manage to join unions, their safety is often at risk. For example, this year, Amazon obstructed workers' rights to organize by threatening arrest and layoffs. Internationally, trade unionists were killed in six countries: Bangladesh, Guatemala, Colombia, Honduras, the Philippines, and the Republic of Korea. What can the UN do to ensure that union rights are upheld? How can the UN protect workers' rights without undermining the interests of large corporations? What measures can be taken to effectively promote and enforce union recognition across different countries?
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Disability Discrimination
Over 1 billion people live with some form of disability. However, disability discrimination continues to be a prevalent issue that creates barriers to opportunities for people with disabilities. While the shift towards medical perspectives has improved conditions, challenges like institutionalization and segregation persist. Disability discrimination affects all aspects of life, including employment and education. On average, people with disabilities are two to three times more likely to be unemployed and face wage gaps. During COVID-19, medical rationing protocols led to the deprioritization of individuals with disabilities for life-saving treatments. In education, in developing countries as many as 33 million children with disabilities are out of school. Additionally, individuals with intellectual disabilities often face disenfranchisement, with legal restrictions preventing them from voting in some countries. How can the UN address disability discrimination and improve accessibility? What steps can the UN take to enhance understanding and support for people with disabilities? How can the UN promote greater inclusion and participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of society?
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The Rights of Imprisoned People
With more than 11.2 million prisoners globally, the rights of imprisoned individuals are a pressing issue, as many detainees face inadequate living conditions, lack access to healthcare, and insufficient legal representation. These disparities are even more pronounced in some countries, such as North Korea, Turkey, Iran, China, Syria, and the United States where detainees are subject to harsh treatment that violates fundamental human rights principles. Since the system’s inception, prisons have been places of punishment rather than rehabilitation. As a result, prison systems have normalized inhumane conditions such as overcrowding, delays in fair trial procedures, and solitary confinement. This year, a third of the global prison population remains in pre-trial detention. Overcrowding affects more than 60 percent of countries and often results in understaffed facilities, reducing safety and care for inmates. Additionally, prisons face healthcare crises, with only 10-20% of prisoners receiving adequate medical services. Incarcerated populations are at higher risk for infectious diseases, and it is estimated that 15-25% of inmates suffer from serious mental illness. What actions should the UN take to ensure fundamental rights for incarcerated individuals? How can the UN strengthen accountability for countries violating prisoners' rights? What measures can be taken to promote rehabilitation over punishment?
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Child Soldiers
As armed conflicts grow in scale and intensity, tens of thousands of children are coerced into becoming child soldiers. Thrust into dangerous roles as guards, messengers, and spies, these children are exposed to life-threatening situations and long-lasting trauma due to facing severe physical, sexual, or psychological violence. Despite 196 countries ratifying the Convention on the Rights of the Child and 172 ratifying the Optional Protocol on the Involvement of Children in Armed Conflict (OPAC), the issue has escalated, particularly in Western and Central Africa. Currently, the highest populations of child soldiers are found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Syria, with rising numbers in Burkina Faso and Mali. In less than a decade, over 105,000 children were verified as recruited and used by parties to conflict, although the actual number is suspected to be much higher. In 2020, approximately 337 million children lived within 50 kilometers of an ongoing conflict, where at least one conflict actor had recruited children; in Africa, this figure reached about 118 million, meaning roughly 1 in 6 children were vulnerable to recruitment. What can the UN do to prevent the recruitment of child soldiers in conflict zones effectively? How can the UN hold nations accountable for violating children's rights in armed conflicts? What measures can the UN implement to support current and former child soldiers?
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Environment (4a, 4b, 4c)
Plastic Pollution
Plastic pollution is an ever growing problem that deserves global attention. Not only are single-use plastics incredibly difficult to dispose of, harmful chemicals in the manufacturing process and microplastics continue to pollute our oceans, environment, and our bodies. “Of the seven billion tonnes of plastic waste generated globally so far, less than 10 per cent has been recycled. Millions of tonnes of plastic waste are lost to the environment, or sometimes shipped thousands of kilometers to destinations where it is mostly burned or dumped” (unep.org). Although the manufacturing of plastics and plastic products brings in economic benefits for larger and more developed nations, developing nations are disproportionately affected by the environmental consequences that come along with it. Not only does plastic negatively impact human health, plastics are incredibly harmful to animals, wildlife, and their health and habitats as well. What type of infrastructure can the UN build to help safely manage, dispose, and recycle plastic? What measures should the UN take to protect nations and their citizens from the environmental costs of plastic and mitigate the issue in the long run? What innovative solutions can be implemented to eliminate plastics altogether?
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Overtourism
As wealth is built up in more countries, such as China, there becomes more people who have the means to travel. Social media only exacerbates the issue by connecting travel to not only the experience, but also status and exclusivity. According to National Geographic, “a French start up, Murmuration, which monitors the environmental impact of tourism by using satellite data, states that 80% of travelers visit just 10% of the world's tourism destinations, meaning bigger crowds in fewer spots.” Although popular vacation spots such as Venice and Barcelona gain economic benefits from tourists, the transportation of tourists to their destination is very costly. Cruise ships and transatlantic planes contribute heavily to the world’s overall CO2 emissions in the transportation sector. “Over Tourism's worst offender is cruise ship tourism, which in 2016 emitted 24–30 million tonnes (t) of CO₂, with per passenger emissions ranging from 1.2 -- 9t of CO₂ per trip. By comparison, a transatlantic flight emits a bit less than one tonne of CO2 per passenger, according to the International Council on Clean Transportation. That means taking a cruise emits up to nine times more carbon than flying across the Atlantic” (energymonitor.ai). Transportation is not the only problem. Careless tourists and the abundance of them create waste and damage to natural and historical sites. For example, the Great Barrier reef is slowly deteriorating due to tourists visiting and touching the coral. How can the UN help provide relief to cities and countries with overtourism? How can the UN protect the environment and create sustainable travel for frequently visited tourist destinations? Can the UN help decrease the CO2 emissions created by transportation?
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Global Coral Bleaching
Coral reefs are not only vital to the animals that depend on them but also to humans. Coral reefs sustain habitats for 25% of all ocean life, and many countries rely on fishing industries as well as coral reef tourism. Climate change, and in turn record high temperatures, are affecting more than half the world’s coral. The high temperatures cause the stressed coral to bleach, which significantly increases the risk of mortality. Once these reefs die, it is rare for them to come back. When these reefs disappear, shelter, spawning grounds, and protection from predators for thousands of marine species are also taken away. In turn, these ecosystems collapse, with many species facing extinction. For humans, healthy reefs act as natural barriers that absorb the force of waves, which protect coastal communities. Additionally, communities may face food insecurity as their main sources of food and income from fishing and tourism disappear. Scientists have confirmed that in 2024 we are currently in a fourth global mass coral bleaching event. What solution must be developed that can stop or drastically slow down the process of coral bleaching? How can the UN support coastal communities that may also be affected by coral bleaching? How can the UN assist the rebuilding of damaged reefs?
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Fast Fashion
Due to the process of globalization, consumerism has skyrocketed. According to the UN Environment Programme, “The average consumer buys 60 percent more pieces of clothing than 15 years ago. Each item is only kept for half as long.” Even in 2015, almost ten years ago, the world consumed 800 billion new pieces of clothing every year, with the average American generating 82 pounds of waste just from clothing every year. The industry relies on current trends; as soon as social media has moved on from them, the industry and their consumers have too. This results in these cheap articles of clothing ending up in landfills. Not only that, they often end up in water sources, releasing 500,000 tons of microfibers each year. Additionally, 35% of all microplastics in our oceans originate from fast fashion items, which is a growing issue for marine habitats. These microplastics also end up in our diets; humans consume, on average, 5 grams of microplastics per week. According to the UN Environment Programme, the industry is the second-biggest consumer of water and is responsible for 2-8% of carbon emissions globally. There are three reasons for these impacts: dyeing and finishing, yarn preparation, and fiber production. What solution must be developed that can halt the environmental effects of the fast fashion industry? How can the UN and member countries regulate such transnational fast fashion companies?
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Health and Human Services (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d)
Gene Editing
Genome editing, or gene editing, allows scientists to make changes to DNA. This allows physical traits to be changed as well as risks of disease to be lowered. Moreover, infertility may be treated by gene editing. However, with these benefits come many ethical concerns. For example, the embryo cannot consent to editing its genes. Or in the future people may abuse the technology and edit traits not important for health but rather purely for genetic enhancement. Additionally, if gene therapies are expensive so that only the wealthy have access to such technology, this would only widen the disparities between economic classes. Beyond that, it is still unknown how safe this technology is. Modified genes could spread to the gene pools, with many unforeseeable consequences. Although there are benefits of genome editing, there are also many risks. If genome editing has the potential to interfere with future populations, is it safe to permit genome editing? How can gene editing be developed to ethically prevent congenital disorders? How can we prevent gene editing from further increasing existing discrepancies between the wealthy and the poor?
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Mental Health Crisis
As of 2019, nearly one billion people were suffering from a mental disorder. One in two people will develop a mental condition in their lifetime, with the most common being depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a specific phobia, and alcoholism. People suffering from mental health issues have, on average, one to two decades less to live than their counterparts. According to the World Health Organization, “Social and economic inequalities, public health emergencies, war, and the climate crisis are among the global, structural threats to mental health. Depression and anxiety went up by more than 25% in the first year of the pandemic alone.” Those with the least access to adequate services are at the greatest risk of mental illness. One reason why these individuals may lack access to adequate mental health care is due to the stigma and discrimination against people with mental health conditions. In fact, twenty countries still criminalize attempted suicide. Beyond this, the widespread presence of mental health disorders has economic impacts too; they contribute to nearly $1 trillion in lost productivity yearly. How can the UN help create processes to diagnose and treat mental illness? How can the UN assist countries in improving the current lack of health equity? How can the economic losses due to the mental health crisis be combated?
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Global Immunization for Vaccine Preventable Diseases
Vaccines are a vital, life-saving technology that protects humans from preventable diseases and global outbreaks. All around the world, access to vaccinations are inequitable due to transportation, storage, and technological problems in remote or impoverished areas. “There could be a myriad of challenges related to supply-chain logistics in developing countries, typically in the areas of operational efficiency, planning, talent availability, transportation, and warehousing infrastructure, as well as data systems and governance models” (McKinsey). Further, vaccine hesitancy is spreading due to misinformation and lack of access to consistent care. Vaccines are important now more than ever with increasing numbers of covid-19 and measles cases. How can the UN help developing nations improve their vaccination procedure process? What systems can the UN implement to help increase global accessibility to vaccines? How can the UN aid governments, healthcare facilities, and workers?
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Access to Clean Water for Drinking and Sanitation
All around the world, people do not have access to clean water. According to WHO, “some 2.2 billion people around the world do not have safely managed drinking water services, 4.2 billion people do not have safely managed sanitation services, and 3 billion lack basic hand washing facilities.” Clean water is a vital part of daily life and good health; water is used for agriculture, food preparation, drinking, sanitation, and basic hygiene. Globally, the world’s water supply is dwindling. Countries are having an increasingly hard time maintaining or even supplying water to their citizens. Worsening effects of climate change such as longer and hotter droughts and rising sea levels are cutting off supply. Poor infrastructure, war and conflict, and lack of cooperation between nations cause heavy strain on countries whose clean water resources are already at a disadvantage. Poor water can cause individuals to contract diseases such as cholera, hepatitis A, and polio that could otherwise have been avoided. How can the UN help countries that struggle with access to clean water for drinking and sanitation? What type of infrastructure should the UN implement to provide relief? Should the UN help in the governance, research, and development of clean water services?
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Security Council (SC)
The Rohingya Conflict
The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic minority who have practiced Sunni Islam for centuries in Myanmar. Prior to August 2017, most of the estimated one million Rohingya in Myanmar lived in Rakhine State, making up about a third of the state’s population. However, the Rohinya have faced decades of discrimination and persecution by Myanmar's predominantly Buddhist government and societal structure. After the military junta seized power in 1962, the Rohingya were stripped of citizenship and denied basic rights. In recent years, the military launched a crackdown that destroyed hundreds of Rohingya villages, killing at least 6,7000 Rohingya. This led to a refugee crisis: at least 1 million Rohingya fled to Bangladesh, and many others fled to India, Thailand, and Malaysia. Despite several nations calling out the violence as genocide, the Myanmar government continues to deny these claims and dismiss international criticism. How can the UN address the refugee crisis created from the Rohiingya conflict? How can the UN protect the Rohingya in Myanmar from further military persecution? How can the UN support the neighboring countries who are taking in refugees?
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The South China Sea
Countries have disputed control over the South China Sea for centuries, but in recent years these territorial disputes have heightened. Countries including China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan have varying claims over crucial maritime zones, valuable resources, and trade routes in the region. In particular, China claims to have control of the region up to the “nine dash” line, which encompasses the majority of the region. Further, China has also been building artificial islands and heavily militarizing more islands, increasing tension. The region has seen rising violence due to territorial disputes since 1974, when China seized the Paracels from Vietnam and killed more than 70 Vietnamese troops. Most recently, in early 2023, Chinese vessels were shining lasers at Filipino boats and interfering with their trade routes. In the past, the international community has called upon China to negotiate with ASEAN (the Association of South East Asian Nations), but China has been unwilling to negotiate and many Southeast Asian nations remain divided on how to address the issue. With increasing militarization, how can the Security Council maintain peace and resolve territorial disputes in the South China Sea?
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Conflict in Kashmir
Kashmir is the most densely militarized zone in the world. This is due to long enduring conflict in the region between India and Pakistan, beginning in 1947 when both newly independent nations claimed the region, leading to several wars, ongoing military confrontations, and an unresolved territorial dispute. However, recently tensions and human rights abuses, specifically in India-occupied Kashmir, in response to Kashmiri movements for independence. Since the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special autonomous status in August 2019, human rights reports have documented arbitrary detentions, murder, and restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, with many Kashmiri protesters killed or arrested. Further, the Indian government has cut off internet access and targeted journalists and activists supporting Kashmir.
As tensions continue to rise, how can the Security Council curb violence in the region and uphold the rights of the Kashmiri people?
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Haiti’s Gang Violence Crisis
Haiti's gang violence crisis has escalated dramatically, posing severe challenges for both the country and the broader international community. Gangs have taken control of large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and other regions, engaging in widespread violence, extortion, and kidnapping. The Haitian government, weakened by political instability, struggles to contain the chaos, while the population faces severe food insecurity, displacement, and economic collapse. The violence has disrupted humanitarian aid and threatens regional stability, as Haitians attempt to flee the violence, potentially increasing migration to neighboring countries like the Dominican Republic and the United States. Global implications include the potential for international intervention and the spread of transnational crime networks, as gangs in Haiti may collaborate with criminal organizations in Latin America and beyond. The United Nations and other global organizations are increasingly called upon to address both the immediate security crisis and the long-term structural issues that fuel gang violence, such as poverty, political corruption, and economic inequality. The international community faces the challenge of balancing humanitarian aid with measures to restore governance and security in Haiti.
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Cameroon civil war
The Cameroon Civil War, also known as the Anglophone Crisis, began in 2016 as a result of decades of political and economic oppression of the English-speaking minority by the Francophone-dominated government. This escalated into violent conflict between separatist groups and government forces and a severe humanitarian crisis, including the displacement of over 700,000 people internally and more than 67,000 refugees fleeing to neighboring nations including Nigeria. Furthermore, reports of widespread human rights violations, such as murder, arbitrary detention, and attacks on civilians and schools, have been frequent on both sides. Despite the 2019 National Dialogue that attempted to find a peaceful solution, the violence has persisted and resulted in further destabilization of the region. The Security Council must address urgent humanitarian needs, protect civilians from violence, and establish mechanisms to monitor and investigate human rights abuses in Cameroon.
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Ethiopian–Somali Border Dispute
As tensions rise between Somalia and Ethiopia, concerns are increasing regarding the implications of recent developments along their shared border. Somalia has accused Ethiopia of encroaching on its sovereignty, largely due to the presence of 4,000 African Union peacekeeping troops, which Ethiopia is a part of. This situation has been exacerbated by ongoing instability, with reports indicating that more than 1.1 million people in Somalia have been displaced due to violence and conflict in 2023 alone. In July 2022, Al-Shabaab, a Sunni Islamic terrorist group working to overthrow the Somali federal government and establish a fundamentalist Islamic state, conducted a cross-border offensive into Ethiopia, marking a significant escalation in its activities. The group’s insurgency poses a substantial threat to security in Somalia, where it has been responsible for numerous attacks, including a deadly assault on a hotel in Mogadishu in December 2022 that killed at least 21 people. How can the UN mediate the situation between Somalia and Ethiopia? What strategies can be developed to counter Al-Shabaab’s influence amid these escalating tensions? How can the UN facilitate humanitarian assistance to those displaced by the conflict?
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Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)
Period Poverty
Billions of people around the world experience period poverty, or insufficient access to menstrual products, education, sanitation, and hygiene facilities necessary for menstruation. 1.5 billion people lack basic sanitation services, like private toilets, keeping women away from their work or school during their period. This poverty is heightened by stigma and education surrounding menstruation. Many girls and women lack preparedness and awareness for their periods. For example, in Bangladesh and Egypt, only around 50% of girls said they were aware of menstruation before getting their period for the first time. Many communities carry stigmas around periods to this day, representing women and their periods as taboo, further isolating and hurting those who menstruate. Period products are also incredibly expensive because of gender-blind policies like the “pink tax” on feminine products, which have been created as a result of the taboo around periods. This directly interrupts the lives of these people, and puts their health at great risk. Period Poverty is a global health issue affecting women in both developed and developing countries. Even in the United States, 1 in 4 teens and 1 in 3 adults struggle to afford menstruation products. This is more than a health and hygiene issue. It directly harms human rights, and is a result of gender inequality. This poverty worsens for the 614 million women living in conflict areas. How can the UN work to make menstruation products and spaces more accessible to women worldwide? What policies and changes should the UN implement to provide relief to this poverty? How can this poverty be ended?
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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
Across the world, indigenous women and girls have been missing or murdered at alarming rates. In 2016, the murder rate for indigenous women living on reservations in the United States was 10 times higher than the national average, and was the 3rd leading cause of death for native women. In Canada, indigenous women are 4 times more likely than other Canadians to go missing. Indigenous women of Central and South women have faced similar violence. In 2022, the Peruvian government reported 5,380 cases of missing women, many of whom are indigenous, leading to widespread protests for increased government action. Due to increased light on missing and murdered women in the Americas, other indigenous groups have called upon their governments to investigate in their respective countries. For example, First Nations women in Australia are 10 times more likely to be murdered by their partner, and make up 20% of missing women reports. However, these statistics likely don’t reflect the whole picture. Many indigenous communities are calling out their governments for the lack of urgency and efficiency in responding to missing persons reports. Further, little effort by law enforcements globally to keep track of these missing cases lead to uncertainties on the exact number of missing and murdered indigenous women. CSW must consider how to implement regulations to protect indigenous women and increase government accountability for adequately tracking and responding to missing indigenous women reports.
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Discrimination against female athletes
Women and girls often face violence and discrimination in sports, simply based on gender. These women are abused emotionally, physically, financially, psychologically, and sexually. 21% of female athletes have experienced a form of sexual assault at least once during their athletic careers. 31.8% of female athletes have been punished with excessive training, and 87% of female athletes were the target of online abuse during the 2020 Olympics. Professional female athletes are severely underpaid compared to males, and in the NCAA, women miss out on $1 billion in athletics scholarships. This is heavily due to negative gender stereotypes, traditionally male dominated environments, ineffective governments, lack of transparency, and normalization of abuse and violence. Sexist comments and unjustified criticism of women athletes’ performance continue, devaluing their talent. These comments and accusations worsen for women of color. Historically, women athletes of color have had disproportionate scrutiny and discrimination when it comes to sex testing, or false accusations of gender. Black women in particular have been subject to stereotypes of being portrayed as more masculine, because of dehumanization and objection that started during slavery. Unfortunately, gender equality in sports hasn’t been reached, even in developed countries, and countries to violate the rights of women all around the globe. How can this equality be achieved in athletics? What policies and changes should the UN implement to provide change and relief? How can this discrimination and harassment be ended?
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Sexual Violence in the Workplace
Even though the participation of women in the workforce has become commonplace, the workplace continues to be an unsafe space for many women. All too often, women experience sexual harrassment and sexual violence in the workplace. According to the Stanford Social Innovation Review, sexual violence can “impair employees’ physical and mental health and well-being, leading to stress, anxiety, loss of self-esteem, motivation, and even job loss. It contributes to the gender pay gap, and affects women's opportunities for advancement and career progression.” In one case in West Bengal, India, a female doctor in Kolkata hospital was raped and murdered. The incident sparked a national debate about women’s safety in the workplace. The problem of sexual violence in the workplace is not isolated to doctors in India. Sexual violence occurs in the service industry, in the entertainment industry, and even in the military. What can the UN do to help women who are victims of sexual violence? How can the UN implement infrastructure to insure safe resting places for women in the workplace? How can the UN create and enforce stricter laws for sexual violence perpetrators?
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Gender Equality in the Digital Age
The digital age has transformed society, but it has also highlighted gender disparities. Women and girls face significant barriers to accessing and benefiting from new advancements. Despite progress, a persistent digital gender gap, caused by limited internet access, low digital literacy, and socio-cultural barriers, limits women's participation in the digital economy. In developed nations, the International Telecommunication Union found that women are 15% less likely to have access to the internet, and in some developing nations this number can be as high as 43%. Additionally, a UNESCO report found that women hold only about 28% percent of STEM jobs. Furthermore, the women that do have access to online spaces are further subjugated to discrimination. Online platforms expose women to new forms of violence, including cyberbullying, harassment, and exploitation, which can deter their engagement and expression in digital environments. How can the CSW promote equal access to technology and economic opportunities in the digital age, and help to overcome the digital divide, while making online communities safe and inclusive for women?
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Female Refugees and Migrants
Women make up almost half of the world’s migrants and refugees, searching for safety and stability for themselves and their families. In the aftermath of the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes, 6.7 million people, in which 70% are women and children, have been displaced within Syria and there are more than 18,000 registered refugees and asylum-seekers in the country. These women are the main caretakers and first responders in their communities, and pass their knowledge onto younger generations. Yet, they still continue to experience rape and sexual violence without access to methods of protection, with 1 in 5 refugees or displaced women being estimated to have experienced sexual violence. In 2011, the International Labor Organization adopted Convention No. 189 on Domestic Workers, designed to protect the rights of domestic workers, the majority of whom are women. The EU has continued to push more countries to ratify the ILO convention. Refugee women also tend to have lower skill levels and a poorer level of education, which limit their access to employment opportunities and hinder their ability to integrate into their new communities. How can the UN enhance the safety and protection of female refugees and migrants? How can the UN ensure that their rights are upheld? How can the UN assist in providing essential resources and services to them?
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International Court of Justice (ICJ)
Alleged Violations of the 1955 Treaty of Amity, Economic Relations, and Consular Rights
Applicant Nation: Iran
Respondent Nation: United States of America
The Iran Nuclear Deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was agreed upon back in 2015. The agreement stated that in exchange for western countries like the US, UK, France, Germany, and other European Union countries lifting economic sanctions against Iran, Iran would would limit its developing nuclear program by reducing their stockpile of uranium and allowing intensive scrutiny and monitoring from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to ensure compliance. The economic sanctions were severely hurting and negatively impacting Iran’s economy by limiting trade. However, the conflict began when in 2018, the Trump administration left the Iran Nuclear Deal and reimposed sanctions as they argued that the deal was not effective in limiting other Iranian programs like Iran's ballistic missile program, explaining that the deal had many loopholes that Iran was abusing. Iran argues that these sanctions are dishonoring the treaty, while the U.S. claims its actions were necessary to safeguard national security and limit Iran’s nuclear power. How can the UN ensure the enforcement of treaties while balancing global security concerns? What measures can the UN take to mediate the disputes and reinstate a new version of the deal?
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Ethnic Cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh
Applicant Nation: Armenia
Respondent Nation: Azerbaijan
On September 16th, 2021, Armenia filed a report against Azerbaijan under the 1965 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD), and ethnic cleansing of the Armenian population in the Nagorno-Karabakh. This is largely due to the tensions between these countries, mainly from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, a dispute over part of Azerbaijan that is mainly Armenian. This area has led to many territorial conflicts between the countries for many years. Azerbaijan raised preliminary objections to this on April 23th, 2021. The ICJ has called for both countries to ensure safety for all individuals, ordering Azerbaijan to ensure free movement of Armenians fleeing from the area of conflict. The ICJ must determine if Azerbaijan racially discriminated against Armenians.
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Dispute over the Waters of the Silala
Applicant Nation: Chile
Respondent Nation: Bolivia
Chile and Bolivia's dispute over the status and use of the Silala River poses a significant challenge to international water law and transboundary resource management. Chile contends that the Silala is a natural, international watercourse that flows from Bolivia into Chile, thus, it is subject to international water law and both countries have the right to use it for their needs. Chile requests that the ICJ recognize the Silala’s status as an international waterway, allowing both Chile and Bolivia to continue to access the river. However, Bolivia claims that the flow of the Silala was artificially enhanced by a series of canals and engineering works built over a century ago to divert water for industrial use in Chile, and that the Silala was originally only found in Bolivia. Bolivia claims that Chile has been benefiting from the Silala waters without fair compensation or a formal agreement, and is therefore violating Bolivia's sovereignty and control over its natural resources. Bolivia seeks recognition from the ICJ of its control of the Silala river as well as compensation for past and continued usage by Chile. The ICJ must decide who should have access to the Silala River and consider how their ruling will set a precedent for international waterways.
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Application of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment
Applicant Nations: Canada and the Netherlands
Respondent Nation: Syria
In March 2021, Canada and the Netherlands filed a case against the Syrian Arab Republic, alleging widespread violations of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, monitored by the Committee Against Tortue (CAT). Since the Syrian Civil War broke out, reports from international organizations have revealed crackdown on dissidents, human rights activists, and journalists, as well as widespread and horrific torture including severe beatings, sexual violence, and electric shocks in Syrian detention centers. Now, Canada and the Netherlands have taken Syria to the ICJ for over violations of their commitment to the CAT by failing to prevent torture, compensating victims, and conduct impartial investigations of torture. However, Syria denies these allegations. On top of calling for the immediate stop to torture, Canada and the Netherlands have also asked the ICJ to order Syria to ensure protection of citizens, humanitarian aid, prevent retaliation, and preserve the evidence of torture. It is up to the ICJ to decide if Syria’s actions violated the CAT, and what measures should be taken to protect the rights of Syrians.
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Embassy of Mexico in Quito
Applicant Nation: Mexico
Respondent Nation: Ecuador
On April 5th, 2024, around 15 special operations agents from Ecuador forcibly entered the Mexican Embassy in Quito. During the incident, the Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr Roberto Canseco Martínez, was violently assaulted and the agents took Jorge David Glas Espinel, former Vice-president of the Republic of Ecuador, in a vehicle and left the premises. Glas had been Previously convicted twice on corruption-related charges and released early from prison, and was now facing new charges from Ecuadorian prosecutors. Mexico claims Ecuador’s actions have violated “Mexico’s rights under customary and conventional international law, as well as fundamental principles upon which the international legal system is based.” Mexico claims that Ecuador has violated the Pact of Bogotá, which requires parties to resolve conflicts peacefully. In light of the violations, Mexico requests the ICJ to “[t]o suspend Ecuador as a member of the United Nations” and give full reparations. The ICJ must determine whether Ecuador violated international law, and if they should be suspended from the United Nations as a result.
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Allegations of Genocide in Palestine-Israel War
Applicant Nation: South Africa
Respondent Nation: Israel
In December 2023, South Africa filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention in relation to Palestinians in Gaza. Evidence submitted by South Africa asserts that "acts and omissions" by Israel "are genocidal in character because they are intended to bring about the destruction of a substantial part of the Palestinian national, racial, and ethnical group.” South Africa seeks provisional measures to protect the Palestinian people and ensure Israel complies with its obligations under the Genocide Convention. This action aligns with South Africa's foreign policy goal of achieving lasting peace between Israel and Palestine, with two states existing side by side within recognized borders based on the 1967 lines. However, Israel refutes South Africa’s claims, attributing civilian harm to its conflict with Hamas and arguing it has taken measures to avoid civilian casualties. The ICJ must interpret the Genocide Convention, including obligations to prevent and address genocide, to determine whether Israel’s actions in Gaza violate international law and warrant intervention.
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Agenda Topics Authored by the Oregon MUN Secretariat.