Agenda Topics MUN2026

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General Assembly (GA)

General Assembly (GA1)

Revisiting the 1948 Genocide Convention in the 21st Century

In the year of 1948, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide as a response to the systematic killings of the Jewish people during the Holocaust. This treaty has been the most comprehensive detailing of genocide to date, defining genocide as an international crime, holding state parties accountable, and implementing preventative measures and punishments. Now, as we enter into 2026 with a world plagued by numerous protracted wars and severe violations of human rights, it’s imperative to revisit this treaty with a modern lens. How can the international community strengthen the Genocide Convention to address 21st-century challenges and ensure that “Never Again” becomes more than just a promise?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.un.org/en/genocideprevention/documents/atrocity-crimes/Doc.1_Convention%20on%20the%20Prevention%20and%20Punishment%20of%20the%20Crime%20of%20Genocide.pdf

• https://www.ushmm.org/genocide-prevention/blog/sixty-five-years-later

• https://ihl-databases.icrc.org/en/ihl-treaties/genocide-conv-1948

General Assembly (GA2)

BRICS and Global Leadership

BRICS is an economic coalition of 9 countries, originally founded by Brazil, India, China, and South Africa. BRICS represents approximately half of the world’s population and one third of the global GDP. With representation from some of the largest economies in the world, as well as direct partnerships with countries in the global south, BRICS has positioned itself to potentially fill the void being created by the current foreign policy decisions of the United States. The BRICS nations are already petitioning for leading roles in the Security Council, and larger influence within the UN. While the economic advantages of BRICS are evident, it is also a problematic organization with its leading members being led by authoritarian governments. Can existing economic coalitions work together with BRICS to assist developing nations? Should the UN begin increasing its collaboration with BRICS directly? Is the authoritarian leadership of some BRICS nations problematic for this partnership? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/08/1140022

• https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/what-brics-group-and-why-it-expanding

• https://ddnews.gov.in/en/brics-leaders-back-india-brazil-for-bigger-un-security-council-role/

• https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2025/03/brics-expansion-and-the-future-of-world-order-perspectives-from-member-states-partners-and-aspirants?lang=en

Global Security (1A, 1B, 1C, 1d)

Stochastic Terrorism

Stochastic terrorism occurs when public rhetoric (often by influential figures or mass media) increases the likelihood that violence will be committed against a group or individual. This type of terrorism is a growing threat to public security. The language of stochastic terrorism is frequently coded, indirect, and/or vague. Speakers often use language to demonize and dehumanize their target, and/or induce fear. While most listeners don’t act violently, some may take this language as justification or encouragement to commit acts of violence against the target. Acts of stochastic terrorism often can’t be held accountable because of their vague nature, and widely recognized right to freedom of speech. The broader impacts of stochastic terrorism are that it creates an atmosphere of intimidation that silences targets even if violence doesn’t occur and can erode trust in media, democracy, or minority protections. How can societies protect vulnerable groups from stochastic terrorism while still preserving legitimate political debate? Should the United Nations recognize stochastic terrorism as a distinct category of political violence under international law? How can global cooperation ensure that social media companies and mass media are not used as tools for stochastic terrorism?

Helpful Resource Links:

• https://csl.mpg.de/en/projects/philosophical-and-public-security-law-implications-of-stochastic-terrorism 

• https://cyberlaw.stanford.edu/blog/2024/07/social-media-and-political-violence-how-break-cycle/ 

• https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/821473-nhrc-un-push-for-ethical-hate-free-politics-in-nigeria.html

Climate Change Conflicts

Climate Change and its impact on global resources has yet to be the cause of an armed conflict, however, it is only a matter of time. The IPCC has deemed Climate Change a “threat multiplier”, which will make existing conflicts worse. Current conflicts in Sudan have been exacerbated by fights over arable farmland. Policy experts project further conflicts over access to water and food. Can the UN speculate the potential resource shortages and areas of conflict? Can policies and agreements be put in place before conflict happens? Can there be an international agreement on resource allocation to prevent the irreparable harm of war?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://unfccc.int/news/conflict-and-climate

• https://www.un.org/en/peaceandsecurity/climate-peace-and-security-what-we-need-know

• https://cepr.org/voxeu/columns/climate-change-causes-conflict-how-policy-can-respond

Energy Grid Attacks

Many energy grids around the world are outdated, and unprepared for the increase in electrical demand from the surge in electric cars and renewable energy. Not only are many grids not able to handle the increased demand, but the outdated systems are also susceptible to terrorist attacks. Wide scale power outages in Spain and Portugal in 2025, highlighted the crisis that can be caused if power goes out, if only for a short period of time. The network of European power grids supply 24 countries with electricity. If those grids were to go out, millions of people would be left without communications, medical equipment, and potentially food and water. How can electrical grids be upgraded for the 21st century, and be bolstered against terrorist attacks? Can a global network be created to ensure stability in access to power? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/ukraine-russia-power-grid-attack-frozen-temperature-rcna182122

• https://www.wired.com/story/youre-not-ready-for-a-grid-attack/

• https://industrialcyber.co/utilities-energy-power-water-waste/wef-warns-of-growing-cyber-threats-to-energy-infrastructure-following-iberian-blackout/

Drone Regulation

In June of 2025, Ukraine carried out a large-scale drone attack on Russia, called “Operation Spiderweb”. This operation resulted in the destruction of multiple Russian aircraft. Since this attack, Russia has been employing drone warfare into Ukraine and invading the airspace of NATO countries. Other countries have reported drones being used to smuggle narcotics across borders, as well as interfering with the flight paths of commercial aircraft. Drones also have the ability to surveil both government officials and violate the privacy of civilians. While drones have shown beneficial uses, they also clearly pose a hazard in many instances. Should there be an enhanced scrutiny of the use of drones in both conflict and daily life? Since drones have the ability to easily cross borders, how does the United Nations create regulations that protect state sovereignty, while also recognizing the potential benefits of drones? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://dronelife.com/2025/07/21/tethered-and-unstoppable-how-fiber-optic-drones-are-rewriting-the-rules-of-battlefield-control/

• https://www.newsweek.com/us-nato-drone-attacks-russia-ukraine-operation-spiderweb-2129986

• https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/students-swarms-and-factories-how-russia-took-over-ukraines-skies-inside-putins-drone-war/articleshow/123882034.cms

State Sponsored Terrorism

Terrorism is an attempt by a non governmental actor to influence political action through violence, or a threat of violence. In the age of nuclear weapons, direct conflict between global super powers is often seen as too great of a risk for the fate of mankind. In order to avoid this conflict, countries will finance attacks by terrorists to weaken rival countries. While the country funding the terrorism is not technically responsible, it is clear that it is enabling violence. Terrorism poses a threat to civilian life and governmental sovereignty, as well as risking the possibility of an escalation of war between super powers. While state sponsored terrorism is against international law, it is clearly not a deterrent. Can the UN create policy that prevents state sponsored terrorism? Can an agreement be reached that creates harsher consequences for countries that actively participate in state sponsored terrorism?   

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.politico.eu/article/russia-europe-diplomat-eu-chief-europe-ukraine-nato-cyber/

• https://thehill.com/opinion/5306785-pakistan-terror-groups-nuclear-rivals/

• https://www.npr.org/2024/12/19/nx-s1-5232809/syria-hts-funding

• https://www.npr.org/2024/12/27/g-s1-40181/syria-sdf-kurdish-coalition-isis

Global Economy (2A, 2b, 2c)

Regulating Cryptocurrencies

Over the past decade, cryptocurrencies and digital currencies have transformed the global economy. From bitcoin to Ethereum to central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) these technologies promised faster transactions, greater financial inclusion, and innovative, cross border payment systems. They also pose enormous risks, extreme volatility used in illicit transactions, lack of consumer protections, the potential to destabilize national currencies, and wipe out investments of individuals. The lack of consistent international rules leads to gaps that criminals and speculators exploit. The collapse of major crypto exchanges such as FTX in 2022 revealed the vulnerability of unregulated, digital markets, shaking public confidence and wiping out billions in assets. It must be considered how to coordinate a cross border regulatory loopable, and ensure digital finance develops in a way that promotes equity instability rather than deepening inequality and volatility. What kind of coordinated global regulation can be established to create stability? What restrictions can be put in place to restrict its use in illegal activities?

Helpful Research Links

• https://www.un.org/en/desa/exploring-potential-cryptocurrencies-positive-change 

• https://www.undp.org/blog/decrypting-crypto 

• https://syntheticdrugs.unodc.org/syntheticdrugs/en/cybercrime/launderingproceeds/moneylaundering.html 

Money Laundering

Money laundering is the process of transferring illegal funds into a legitimate system, and creating the appearance of legality. It threatens the validity of existing economic and political systems by eroding public trust in banking systems and empowering terrorist organizations. Money laundering can also be used to hide transactions from narcotics, illegal weapons, and human trafficking. An estimated 2-5% of the global GDP ($800 billion - $2 trillion USD) is laundered annually by traffickers, cartels, terrorists, and corrupt officials. How can the United Nations protect countries that have weak financial systems from groups seeking to launder money? How can the UN address the process of money laundering to minimize the practice?

Helpful Research Links

• https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/money-laundering/overview.html

• https://www.imf.org/en/About/Factsheets/Sheets/2023/Fight-against-money-laundering-and-terrorism-financing#:~:text=These%20crimes%20can%20make%20countries,across%20borders%20and%20even%20globally

• https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/fake-firms-stolen-cards-dubai-police-take-down-international-money-laundering-syndicate/articleshow/123922301.cms

Debt for Nature Swaps

A debt-for-nature swap is a financial arrangement where a country’s external debt is reduced in exchange for commitments to fund conservation or environmental projects. Around the world, over $2.6 billion in debt has been restructured globally through debt-for-nature swaps since the 1980s, protecting rainforests, oceans, and much more. The most recent example is in Belize, where internal creditors restructured $553 million in internal debt in return for a promise to devote $4 million to marine conservation and deem 30% of its ocean area protected land. Critics argue, however, that these deals raise sovereignty concerns, allowing for wealthy countries to dictate how poorer nations use their land and resources. These swaps have historically been known to exclude and displace local people, especially Indigenous groups on designated indigenous land. How can debt-for-nature swaps be more closely regulated to ensure the rights of citizens, the sovereignty of countries, and protection of the environment? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/04/climate-finance-debt-nature-swap/

• https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/articles/qa-duke-experts-reforming-debt-nature-swaps

• https://www.undp.org/future-development/signals-spotlight-2023/new-wave-debt-swaps-climate-or-nature

Protectionism and Deglobalization

In recent years, the global economy has faced rising challenges to international trade and integration. Protectionist measures, such as tariffs, import quotas, and internal subsidies have increasingly been adopted to protect domestic industries, reduce dependence on international supply chains, and address economic vulnerabilities. These policies, intending to promote national resilience and improve local economy, often disrupt international trade systems, slow international growth, and hamper technological development. Proponents of these policies emphasize how decreasing international trade provides national security, protects domestic jobs and increases government revenue. Critics warn of heightening tensions between countries, rising costs for consumers worldwide, and a widening economic gap between developed and developing nations. There is a very fine line between national economic sovereignty and global economic cooperation. How can the U.N. maintain fair and open trade while addressing the legitimate domestic concerns put forth internationally? What role should international institutions play in regulating trade and protectionism? How can we ensure that vulnerable economies are not disproportionately harmed by de-globalistic policies?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2023/08/29/protectionism-is-failing-to-achieve-its-goals-and-threatens-the-future-of-critical-industries

• https://www.wita.org/atp-research/deglobalization-trade-protectionism-gvcs/

• https://thedailyeconomy.org/article/protectionism-benefits-some-at-the-expense-of-others/

GDP Adjustment

For decades, a country’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) has been the indicator of the health of an economy. GDP is measured as the total monetary value of the goods and services produced in a country in a given period of time. While GDP is an important metric, it can lack detail in the actual well being of a country’s citizens. Global GDP has been rising year after year, yet economic anxieties around the world have only grown. Should GDP be adjusted to include other factors? Should the success of the global economy be measured in a different way? Can the UN create a new measurement of success that leads to a greater benefit for the world?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/gdp-is-the-wrong-tool-for-measuring-what-matters/

• https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fandd/issues/Series/Back-to-Basics/gross-domestic-product-GDP

• https://www.worldfinance.com/strategy/why-gdp-is-no-longer-the-most-effective-measure-of-economic-success

Human Rights (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d)

AI Bias in the Legal System 

With Artificial Intelligence increasingly pervading all aspects of everyday life, a crucial area of concern has become its impact on the legal system. AI platforms are often trained on biased historical data, using algorithms that risk perpetuating discrimination and reinforcing harmful social stigmas and prejudices. Around the world, governments and judicial systems are experimenting with AI to analyze recidivism risk, assist in automated “smart courts,” and even influence criminal sentencing. While these technologies offer the potential to increase efficiency and consistency, they also raise profound questions regarding fairness, transparency, and ethicality. How can the international community establish safeguards that both encourage innovation in artificial intelligence and ensure its use within legal systems continues to protect fundamental human rights? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://clp.law.harvard.edu/knowledge-hub/insights/ai-and-racial-bias-in-legal-decision-making-a-student-fellow-project/

• https://unicri.org/artificial-intelligence-and-robotics-law-enforcement

• https://counciloncj.org/the-implications-of-ai-for-criminal-justice/

Rights to Privacy in the Digital Age 

Though the UDHR (Universal Declaration of Human Rights) has established privacy as a fundamental human right, the modern developments of our digital age have reshaped what privacy truly means. With social media apps tracking every turn, search engines constantly optimizing personal data, and the rise of mass surveillance raising questions over whether privacy has been given up for progress, the definition and interpretation of this right has become increasingly muddled. Member States and international organizations must address the practices of personal data deletion, data usage, unauthorized surveillance, and the publication of this information through clear, systemic regulations. How should we define the fundamental principles of privacy amidst this era of rapid technological advancement? How can we, as an international community, develop a framework that can be applied and reinforced whilst balancing an individual’s privacy and dignity in the digital environment?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.jou.ufl.edu/insights/beyond-consent-rethinking-privacy-in-the-digital-age/

• https://www.su.org/resources/data-privacy-in-the-digital-age-are-we-playing-catch-up

• https://www.unicef.org/innocenti/stories/empowering-students-safeguarding-privacy-rights-todays-digital-world

Rights of Journalists

The right of a free press and the right to be critical of leadership is one of the cornerstones of a free society. Because of this, journalists are often targeted with threats and even violence. This stifles the opinions and information that keeps the populace aware of potential abuses of power. Every year, journalists are incarcerated around the world, and despite the Geneva Convention, the protections for journalists in warzones are ignored. UNESCO’s Observatory of Killed Journalists shows that, since 1993, more than 1,600 journalists have been killed. How can the rights of journalists be protected? What kinds of global policy can there be to ensure journalists can continue to provide the information necessary to give the populace the power to hold those in charge accountable? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2025/07/zimbabwe-arbitrary-detention-of-journalist-an-assault-on-freedom-of-expression/

• https://www.hrw.org/news/2025/09/15/israeli-forces-attack-on-sanaa-kills-journalists

• https://rsf.org/en/index

• https://www.un.org/en/safety-journalists

Linguistic Imperialism and Linguicide

Language serves as a key component of culture and identity, and shapes our interactions with the world around us. Linguicide, the deliberate destruction of languages, has been used or attempted continuously in history through forced assimilation and persecution. For example, the U.S.’s boarding schools have made many Native American languages go extinct, such as the Wôpanâak language of the Mashpee Wampanoag. Russia’s Russification tactics similarly led to the extinction of the languages Ubykh and Yugh. In China, Mandarin is becoming the dominant language, and regional languages such as Cantonese and Shanghainese are decreasing in usage. English  is also becoming more widely used, particularly due to the spread of technology. How can the media in the digital age be used to protect regional and minority languages? How can the United Nations and participating governments reinforce the protection and revitalization of endangered languages?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.europarl.europa.eu/thinktank/en/document/EPRS_BRI(2020)652086#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20United%20Nations,languages%20and%20expand%20their%20use.

• https://www.culturalsurvival.org/publications/cultural-survival-quarterly/how-history-linguicide-threatens-indigenous-peoples-asia#:~:text=According%20to%20Aliansi%20Masyarakat%20Adat,vital%20support%20from%20the%20government. 

• https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/linguicide-how-dying-languages-kill-multiculturalism/rrrqoq6co

Voting Rights

The right to political participation is laid out in Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Access to voting is a requirement for people to be able to elect leaders and vote on laws that directly affect them. However, in order to remain in power, political groups will commonly enact voter suppression measures that prevent large swaths of the population from voting. Technology has simultaneously created concerns over potential election tampering, while also increasing election accessibility. After a revolution in September 2025, the Nepalese people elected their new Prime Minister using a discord server. At the same time, some leaders claim to only recognize paper ballots and in person elections. How can the UN create policy to integrate technology that increases access to voting while also making voting more secure? How can countries commit to ensuring their citizens have full access to political participation?

Helpful Research Links

• https://www.ohchr.org/en/elections

• https://unric.org/en/introduction-to-human-rights-and-elections/

• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/04/what-is-electronic-voting/

Environment (4a, 4b, 4c)

Refrigerant Gas Management

Refrigerant gas is a chemical substance that is used in refrigeration and HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems. Over time, these gasses can leak naturally, escape during maintenance, damage, failure, or be released at the end of the system’s lifecycle. According to the UNEP, “Most HCFCs and HFCs [refrigerant gases] used in these applications have [global warming potentials] that are in the range of 1000 to 4000 times more powerful as greenhouse gases than carbon dioxide” (“Refrigerant Management”). Eradicating the issue of refrigerant gasses is a measure that will help lessen the global gas emission crisis. However, the refrigeration of food has saved thousands of lives since its inception and eventual development as a household appliance. It has also cut down on food waste by giving longer shelf lives to produce and creating the ability to transport frozen foods. Additionally, the rise in global temperatures will only increase the need of home climate control. What can the U.N. do to improve refrigerant gas use and management while not sacrificing the value of refrigeration? What sustainability practices and regulations can the U.N. implement?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.unep.org/ozonaction/refrigerant-management-0

• https://carboncontainmentlab.org/updates/posts/managing-refrigerants-in-a-warmer-world#:~:text=Potent%20HFCs%20and%20exponential%20air,Photo:%20Tilden%20Chao%2C%202022.

• https://alpynestrategy.com/blog/what-is-refrigerant-management/#:~:text=Environmental%20Protection,leaks%20and%20ensuring%20proper%20recovery.

Sand Mining

Sand is an important commodity for cement, construction, and industrial applications. Sand is the second most extracted natural resource after water and can be extracted from terrestrial, river, coastal, and marine sources. In the case with river, coastal, and marine mining, sand mining threatens biodiversity and sea life, lessens natural protection against storms, and can harm the hydrological function of rivers. Mining also has a direct impact on agriculture and fishing industries. Sand mining is not heavily regulated and the global demand for sand will only increase in the coming years due to rapid urbanization and industrialization. In addition, the extent of the sand mining problem is difficult to ascertain due to limited data. How can the U.N. help mitigate the environmental effects of sand mining? How can the U.N. regulate this widely unregulated and unsustainable practice? What system can the U.N. put in place to track this issue?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2023/09/global-sand-mining-demand-impacting-environment/

• https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/inside-high-tech-effort-save-worlds-dwindling-sand-reserves

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7XVp8hADcU

Soil degradation

Soil degradation is the loss of organic matter or the decline in quality of soil. This results in soil being unable to support plants and other ecosystems. “It can be the loss of organic matter, decline in soil fertility, and structural condition, erosion, adverse changes in salinity, acidity or alkalinity, and the effects of toxic chemicals, pollutants or excessive flooding.” (UNDRR) This issue is caused by human activities (such as farming, using pesticides, and other chemicals in growing crops) along with natural causes, and the increasing effects of climate change. With a decline in soil quality, comes a loss in biodiversity and agricultural output. What can the UN work towards to help make healthier soil to keep our ecosystems thriving? Can adjustments be made to existing agricultural practices that maintain healthy soil?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/soil-degradation.html

• https://www.undrr.org/understanding-disaster-risk/terminology/hips/gh0402

• https://www.fao.org/americas/publications/enfoques/degradacion-suelos/en

Rewilding

The earth has been completely reshaped by human civilization. Habitats have been destroyed and plants and animals have gone extinct due to the building of cities and the extraction of resources. Recently there has been a push to “rewild” the globe and help incorporate native species of plants and animals into their former habitats. Some have gone so far as to suggest the cloning of extinct species of megafauna to help with the management of the environment. How will rewilding affect plants and animals that have adapted to the new habitats without the native species? Is cloning extinct species ethical? How can the UN help advance the environmental benefits of rewilding while also limiting the impact on the existing wildlife, humans, and the potential ethical concerns?  

Helpful Research Links:

• https://rewilding.org/

• https://www.iucn.org/resources/issues-brief/benefits-and-risks-rewilding

• https://www.salon.com/2017/10/08/the-case-for-de-extincting-ice-age-megafauna/

Sustainable Building Practices

As the global population grows, so too does the need for housing and commercial buildings. Construction often requires environmental destruction in order to clear space, creates CO2 from materials such as concrete, and leads to copious amounts of waste. In order to avoid damage to the environment, recently, there have been advancements in building techniques, materials, and architecture. As well as the integration of renewable energy and waste management systems. There has even been the creation of carbon negative buildings. How can the UN create consistent guidance for sustainable building practices and increase access to those practices and technologies for developing countries who will require the most access to these resources? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/04/2025-sustainable-construction-barometer-call/

• https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/Industries/energy/articles/delivering-sustainable-construction.html

• https://www.usgbc.org/leed

Health and Human Services (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d)

Multi-Use Pharmaceuticals

Multi-use pharmaceuticals are drugs that can be used to treat multiple diseases. These pharmaceuticals can be repurposed to treat a disease it was unoriginally intended for. There's the potential to have hundreds of medications that are already developed and approved that can be used immediately as opposed to trying to develop new medications. Repurposing drugs can streamline the development process and lower costs, therefore increasing the ability to get these drugs to the market sooner to help more patients and consumers (Kulkarni et al.). Scientific and financial aspects are some of the factors that have curtailed the extent of drug repurposing efforts. How can the U.N. support the research and development of multi-use pharmaceuticals and how can the drugs help existing global health problems? What policies need to be implemented to ensure equitable access to pre-existing multi-use drugs? What surveillance and data systems need to be created to monitor safety, ethical, and efficacy concerns across the globe?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9945820/

• https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/drug-discovery/articles/10.3389/fddsv.2024.1460100/full

• https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/1194348

Global Food Infrastructure

Food infrastructure encompasses the components, systems, and services that allow food to reach consumer markets. Key aspects include the production, processing, storage, distribution and transportation, retail and consumption of food, and waste management. Globally, millions of people are struggling to gain access to food and poor infrastructure is only making this situation worse. Issues with food infrastructure include, but are not limited to, sustainability problems, food loss and waste, climate change and natural disasters, and major conflicts and unrest. How can the U.N. help improve food infrastructure and ensure good practices? What infrastructure can the U.N. implement to help the world’s most vulnerable get access to food? What systems can be created to reduce food waste in developed countries? How can the U.N. support nations struggling with poor food infrastructure?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2024/08/food-supply-chain-networks-why-sustainable-practices-fail-and-approaches-to-improve-them/

• https://www.onelineage.com/news-stories/food-waste-challenge-across-global-food-system#:~:text=The%20United%20Nation's%20Food%20and,metric%20tons%20of%20lost%20food.

• https://blog.aibinternational.com/the-4-biggest-food-safety-infrastructure-challenges

Antibiotic Resistant Infections

Antimicrobials are medications used to treat bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that cause infectious diseases. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a natural process that occurs when pathogens develop ways to overcome the antibiotics and antimicrobial medicines designed to treat them. Treatments for these diseases have proven difficult to find as new resistances constantly arise and AMR diseases can easily spread through microbial communities. As a result, this raises concerns about the morbidity and mortality rate of illnesses that were historically treatable. AMR is caused by factors including the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial agents. What safeguards can the U.N. implement to manage and track the AMR crisis? What public health initiative steps need to be taken? What systems can the U.N. put in place to help diagnose and support those affected?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/antimicrobial-resistance

• https://www.cdc.gov/antimicrobial-resistance/causes/index.html#:~:text=New%20forms%20of%20resistance%20can,that%20already%20exists%20from%20spreading.

• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1113834/

Flooding Preparation

All over the world, flooding has become increasingly frequent and increasingly catastrophic. In May 2024, flooding in Kenya killed hundreds and displaced more than 200,000 people. In the summer of 2022, flooding in Pakistan left almost 1,000 people dead, submerged a third of the country, and destroyed critical infrastructure. Scientists are now predicting a “Megaflood” in Southern California that would be the most expensive natural disaster in history. As the effects of climate change worsen, it has become clear that countries and cities all over the world are not prepared to handle the increasing frequency and severity of rain storms and flooding. What can countries do to adjust their infrastructure to protect their citizens from flash flooding? How can the UN assist both developed and under developed countries?  

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/8/26/pakistan-floods

• https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/12/weather/california-megaflood-study/index.html

• https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/12/climate/flash-floods-disaster-prevention.html

Population Time Bomb

As countries gain wealth and increased access to education, generally birth rates decrease. The replacement rate for humans is considered to be 2.1 children per birthing person. Many OECD countries have fallen below that rate, with Korea being the lowest at 0.75 children per birthing person. Recently, researchers have found that birth rates are not only declining in OECD countries, but globally. This decline in birth rates creates the potential for what is called a “population time bomb”. This would be a society where a disproportionate number of people are over the age of 65, which would put a heightened burden on the smaller young population to take care of the elderly. These societies face risks such as labor shortages and pension shortfalls. How can societies create policies and infrastructure to best assist an aging population in order to alleviate the impact on its younger members? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fandd/issues/2025/06/the-debate-over-falling-fertility-david-bloom

• https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clynq459wxgo

• https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-birth-rate-all-time-low-cdc-data/

Security Council (SC)

Red Sea Shipping Security

Around 15% of the world’s trade passes through the Red Sea. Nearly $5 trillion in goods pass through the narrow sea, saving over 3,000 miles and 10 days for commercial shipping boats carrying goods from Asia to Europe, and vice-versa. The primary threat of shipping boats taking this shortcut has shifted from small-scale, financially motivated piracy to state-sponsored attacks by Houthi forces, utilizing drones, ballistic missiles, and more. These newer forms of technology are much more difficult to counter and significantly more impactful. Over a recent 5 month period, Houthi forces attacked 60 shipping freights, putting at risk over $60 billion in goods. How can the UN protect freedom of navigation in the Red Sea without escalating the conflict in Yemen? How can the international community address the root causes of Houthi attacks, such as the Yemen civil war and Iran-Saudi tensions? Is there a diplomatic passage for limiting Houthi attacks without putting at risk Yemeni civilians? What incentives may work to do so?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.crisisgroup.org/visual-explainers/red-sea/

• https://apnews.com/article/who-are-yemen-houthis-israel-hamas-war-1cd31b8f97dacf49cb5c4228208d419e

• https://www.ynetnews.com/article/ryfmgpnege

Nuclear Arms Treaties

On April 8th, 2011, the United States and Russia signed The New START Treaty, a nuclear treaty aimed at preventing a nuclear arms race and limiting international nuclear threat. The treaty was extended in 2021, but in 2023, Russia stated that it was “suspending participation” in the data sharing and inspections demanded by participation in the New START. Meanwhile, the United States shares that they still find this treaty legally binding for themselves and all other signatories. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran Nuclear Deal, was a UN-supported agreement sponsored by many world powers, limiting Iran’s nuclear capabilities. It was officially enacted in 2015. After the US left the treaty in 2018, citing “major flaws” and “a limited scope”, Iran has been cited violating the treaty in many well-documented cases, notably enriching Uranium-235 to a peak of 83% purity, when the agreement limited them to 3.67% purity. Iran states that these violations are “remedial actions” in response to the US reimposing sanctions while they were in compliance with the JCPOA, as well as a response to continued military actions by Israel. While a higher number of nuclear weapons makes the world less safe, it is also a tool that increases a nation’s sovereignty. For that reason, there is little motivation for countries to not continue to develop their nuclear programs despite having signed treaties. How can the UN ensure that nuclear powers become more compliant with international policies, and how can the ICJ castigate primary belligerents?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.nti.org/education-center/treaties-and-regimes/treaty-between-the-united-states-of-america-and-the-russian-federation-on-measures-for-the-further-reduction-and-limitation-of-strategic-offensive-arms/

• https://www.npr.org/2023/02/22/1158529106/nuclear-treaty-new-start-putin

• https://www.npr.org/2025/09/09/g-s1-87860/iran-iaea-cooperation-agreement-egypt

Chinese Control of Samarium

Samarium is a rare-earth mineral used in the creation of Samarium-Cobalt magnets. This element is used by all major military forces in the creation of advanced radar systems, which are implemented in fighter aircraft, missile guidance systems, naval radar arrays, and other technologically cutting-edge military weapon systems. China has well over 90% of the world’s magnet production facilities, and as tensions rise between major international military powers, China finds itself in a unique strategic position. There are no substantive alternatives to samarium in magnets used for the world’s most advanced weapon systems, and the market scarcity could significantly hamper international military advancements. While China has no real incentive to assist in the growth of other militaries, is there an agreement that can be reached to give global access to these rare earth minerals?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.cbsnews.com/video/what-is-samarium-rare-earth-element-us-china-trade-talks/

• https://www.instituteforenergyresearch.org/international-issues/china-imposes-export-controls-on-rare-earth-minerals/

• https://tribune.com.pk/story/2550159/what-is-samarium-and-why-is-the-us-concerned-about-it

Protecting Undersea Cables from Sabotage

Undersea cables are fiber optic lines that transmit nearly all (~99%) international data traffic (i.e., international communication and financial transactions), providing the foundation for the global internet and telecommunication. There are over 450 undersea cables, spanning ~1.3 million kilometers worldwide. Damage to these undersea cables occurs regularly; there are ~150–200 faults per year globally, which averages to about three repairs per week worldwide. However, there has been increasing concern surrounding the security of these undersea cables in light of recent attacks. For example, since 2023, undersea cables in the Baltic Sea have been damaged or cut, with investigations suggesting ties to Russia or China. Additionally, a cache of explosives was found placed next to a part of NATO’s Central Europe Pipeline System onshore infrastructure (which serves as an exchange point to connect, manage, and distribute data from undersea cables to local networks) in May of 2025. While many cable damages are due to accidents (i.e., anchors, fishing gear, etc), sabotage, if it occurs, could have devastating effects, such as severe regional internet disruptions, halting financial markets, and hindering government operations. How should undersea cable attacks in international waters be detected and deterred? At what point should deliberate undersea cable sabotage be considered an act of war, and how should nations respond? How can we build greater resilience into global communications so societies can withstand cable disruptions?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R47648 

• https://kleinmanenergy.upenn.edu/research/publications/subsea-sabotage-protecting-energy-infrastructure-from-hostile-aggression/ 

• https://www.csis.org/analysis/safeguarding-subsea-cables-protecting-cyber-infrastructure-amid-great-power-competition

Drug Trafficking as National Security Threat

In recent months, the United States has made claims that the drug trade in Central and South America pose a threat to the country’s national security. Because of this, the United States has both carried out, and threatened to carry out, military operations after designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations. Drug trafficking is an issue all over the world, and if this is set as a precedent, many countries could make the same claim to justify military operations that would otherwise violate international law. Should drug cartels be designated as “Terrorists”? Should countries have increased ability to execute military operations to defend themselves from drug cartels? Can the Security Council create protocols that could prevent what could be considered an act of war?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/08/us/trump-military-drug-cartels.html

• https://www.foreignaffairs.com/mexico/wrong-way-fight-cartels

• https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-administration/us-military-conducts-strike-second-venezuelan-boat-drug-cartel-trump-rcna231505

New and Changing States

Political instability is a constant around the world. At times, political instability can lead to the overthrow of an existing government and the installation of new powers or the founding of an entirely new country. When countries are founded via diplomacy or revolution, they are inherently unstable for long periods of time. Power vacuums can lead to civil wars. Developed countries and corporations can seek to exploit a country’s resources. A lack of defined legal systems can leave crime ambiguous. These are just a few of the challenges that put the country’s citizens at great risk. How can the Security Council develop systems and protocols to ensure new countries or countries with transitional governments maintain stability to ensure the safety and well being of its citizens? To what extent can countries involve themselves in the development of a new country without having an outsized influence?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/documentary/syria-after-assad/

• https://borgenproject.org/rebuilding-syria-post-assad-era/

• https://apnews.com/article/nepal-new-government-politics-challenges-d86034115a581762c2d1b38780112006

• https://www.cmi.no/publications/8772-sudans-turmoil-revolution-power-struggles-and-the-quest-for-stability

Commission on the Status of Women (CSW)

Lack of Women's health research  

Despite women constituting roughly half the world’s population, medical research, from basic biology to clinical trials, has historically focused on the male sex. Doctors have considered men's bodies the “norm” leaving women needs and issues drastically unrepresented. Failure to study medications in a broad sampling of women shows to have harmful effects on women globally (AAMC). Gender bias found in healthcare manifests in lack of information across reproductive health, cardiovascular disease, pain management, mental health, auto‑immune disorders and more. As a result, women often experience misdiagnoses, receive less effective treatments, and face higher risks of adverse drug reactions. Currently one of the largest women's health research studies ever has been entirely defunded destroying crucial information that could have been used to help women globally (NPR). How can we draw attention to the need for proper women's health research? How can we stop the defunding of these necessary studies and help women in need of proper healthcare globally? What steps need to be taken to increase the research of women’s health?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.aamc.org/news/why-we-know-so-little-about-women-s-health 

• https://www.nature.com/immersive/d41586-023-01475-2/index.html

• https://www.npr.org/2025/04/23/nx-s1-5372892/womens-health-initiative-research-funding-gets-cut

Political Gender Parity 

Despite women making up half of the world’s population, their average representation in legislative positions still stands at a mere 27%. This lack of political inclusion stems from numerous systemic factors, including discriminatory laws, stereotypes, and limited access to resources. Achieving gender parity not only creates a political landscape that is more equitable and inclusive, but research has shown it has been directly linked to economic prosperity and financial stability. In what ways can we, as a global community, overcome systemic barriers preventing women from attaining political leadership positions? How can we create political systems that both dismantle bias and empower women to lead?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2025/03/global-un-member-states-recommit-to-gender-equality-amid-backlash-against-human-rights/

• https://www.unwomen.org/en/articles/facts-and-figures/facts-and-figures-womens-leadership-and-political-participation

• https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/03/political-power-and-economic-parity-we-need-more-women-leaders-for-the-future-of-jobs/

Domestic Violence 

Globally, over a third of women and girls have experienced some form of physical/sexual violence from an intimate partner. When taking into account factors such as social stigma and fear of retaliation, data on these numbers are highly unreliable, leading experts to predict that over half of incidents go unreported. This ongoing underreporting, combined with the lack of systemic support, not only obscures the scale of the crisis but also hinders the development of effective international action. How can we strengthen prevention mechanisms, ensure accountable reporting, and expand survivor support systems to effectively address the global crisis of domestic violence? 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.un.org/en/academic-impact/examining-domestic-violence-around-world-cost-doing-nothing

• https://www.un.org/en/coronavirus/what-is-domestic-abuse

• https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/nine-ways-policymakers-can-improve-domestic-violence-response

The Threat of AI To Women 

Although AI offers promising innovations, its rapid rise poses a disproportionately significant threat to women. The root cause lies in training data that is heavily biased by historic gender discrimination. Beyond algorithmic bias, AI threatens women’s roles in the workplace, the economy, and healthcare—reinforcing harmful gender norms while failing to adequately protect women from digital abuse. Mitigating these risks requires more inclusive AI development, stronger regulations for transparency, and ensuring that women’s voices are represented in AI policy. How can we ensure the creation and regulation of AI is truly representative of women around the world? What measures can we as the international community take to protect women from the disproportionate risks posed by AI and to promote gender equity in its development?

Sources: 

• https://www.unwomen.org/en/articles/explainer/artificial-intelligence-and-gender-equality

• https://www.captechu.edu/blog/artificial-intelligence-and-its-unique-threat-women

• https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/ai-artificial-intelligence-threat-women-work-labour-organization-rcna207871

Maternal Health Emergency

According to the UN Population Fund, “Over 700 women die every day from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth – one woman every two minutes,” (“Maternal Mortality”). These deaths can be caused by a myriad of complications such as infection, severe cases of bleeding and high blood pressure, complications from delivery, and unsafe abortions (“Maternal Health”). Social, cultural, financial, geographic, and socioeconomic are some of the many factors that affect maternal health and a woman’s access to lifesaving treatment. The health of a mother is vital for her own well-being and the life of her child and family. How can the U.N. work to avoid preventable complications from pregnancy and childbirth? How can the U.N. support mothers through each step of their pregnancy through access to timely treatment and obstetric care? How can the U.N. help mothers in vulnerable populations?

Helpful Resource Links:

• https://www.unfpa.org/maternal-health#readmore-expand

• https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/maternal-mortality#:~:text=Overview,most%20could%20have%20been%20prevented.

• https://reproductive-health-journal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12978-021-01151-6#:~:text=A%20disproportionately%20high%20rate%20of,healthcare%20in%20South%20Punjab%2C%20Pakistan.

Protecting Women in War

Even though women are not typically combatants in war, they experience a disproportionate level of effects. According to a 2023 study, four out of every ten people killed in conflict were women. Women are also more likely to experience sexual violence in times of war, girls are more likely to experience child marriage, and cases of PTSD are also frequent. Even though women experience the effects of war, they are also often left out of the peace making process. What kinds of safeguards can be built to help women and children in war zones? What supports can be put in place for survivors, and how can women be more involved in the peace process?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.unwomen.org/en/articles/facts-and-figures/facts-and-figures-women-peace-and-security

• https://www.unwomen.org/en/articles/explainer/inside-the-crisis-you-dont-see-how-war-impacts-womens-mental-health

• https://www.map.org.uk/news/archive/post/1714-anone-of-us-have-been-spared-from-the-toll-of-this-wara-protecting-womenas-rights-to-health-in-gaza

International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Essequibo Region

Applicant Nation: Guyana

Respondent Nation: Venezuela

Venezuela and its smaller neighbor Guyana have fought over the Essequibo region (61,600 square miles) for well over a century, and even with great effort from international bodies, a settlement has not yet been achieved. In the past decade, significant oil deposits were found in disputed waters, heightening tensions greatly. Venezuela’s president Nicolas Maduro was cited increasing military presence near the disputed border. Brazil has also deposited troops along the shared border. The US was also seen conducting military training with Guyana (British Guiana). With such escalated military and political presences along the border, how can the International Court of Justice ensure a peaceful and compromised agreement? If neither side backs down, how can we ensure regional stability? How can the ICJ balance historical claims with modern realities and come to a final agreement accepted by all parties at stake?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2025/5/23/borders-and-ballots-why-essequibo-is-controversial-in-venezuelas-election

• https://www.csis.org/analysis/entirely-manufactured-and-dangerous-crisis-over-essequibo

• https://globalamericans.org/venezuelas-latest-outrageous-moves-against-guyana/

Exclusive Economic Zone Dispute in the Pacific

Applicant Nation: Fiji

Respondent Nation: France

The UN is confronted with Fiji’s claim that France’s activities in the Pacific infringe on its Exclusive Economic Zone rights under UN convention of the Law of the Sea. The challenge is to clarify maritime boundaries and resource allocation while balancing interests of a small state against a major power which relies on a priority of the committee. This case also reflects the ICJ’s broader role in resolving disputes over ocean governance and protecting the sovereignty of vulnerable states. It remains the role of this committee to come to an understanding on what the ICJ needs to do about the governance regarding maritime territories and specifically what effect this case has on the larger implications of ocean governance. 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://thecommonwealth.org/news/agreement-reached-between-fiji-tuvalu-and-france-maritime-boundaries 

• https://casebook.icrc.org/case-study/georgiarussia-human-rights-watchs-report-conflict-south-ossetia

• https://docs.un.org/en/S/2021/82 

Alleged Violations of Territorial Integrity in South Ossetia

Applicant Nation: Georgia

Respondent Nation: Russia

The UN faces the difficulty of adjudicating Georgia's claims that Russia violated its territorial integrity through actions in South Ossetia. The main issue lies in determining jurisdiction and whether Russia’s conduct constitutes breaches of international law without escalating political tensions. This case highlights the ICJ’s struggle to enforce rulings in conflicts involving powerful states while maintaining credibility as an arbitrary force. In the job of this committee to dissect the legality of this case and assess a solution that dictates the ICJ’s future in making credible choices in violations of territorial integrity. 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://hudoc.echr.coe.int/eng?i=002-14297 

• https://www.haguejusticeportal.net/Docs/HJJ-JJH/Vol_3(3)/Journal%20-%20Okowa%20-%203.3%20-%20EN.pdf 

• https://2017-2021.state.gov/russias-violations-of-georgian-sovereignty/ 

Access to the Sea for Landlocked States

Applicant Nation: Bolivia

Respondent Nation: Chile

The UN is facing the challenge of balancing Bolivia’s demand for sovereign access to the Pacific Ocean with Chile’s defense of its territorial integrity under existing treaties. This dispute underscores the larger issue of how international law should address the disadvantages faced by landlocked states. The UN has struggled in the past to mediate fairly while avoiding setting a precedent that could reopen other border agreements worldwide. It’s the task of this committee to present an effective solution that can bring autonomy and justice to landlocked states and their ability to have access to larger parts of trade. 

Resources:

• https://www.icj-cij.org/case/153 

• https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-45708671 

• https://www.un.org/en/landlocked/about-landlocked-developing-countries 

Alleged Smuggling of Migrants

Applicant Nation: Lithuania

Respondent Nation: Belarus

Lithuania has accused Belarus of manufacturing a migrant crisis into Lithuania. It is asserted that Belarus knowingly accepted refugees from parts of the Middle East and intentionally transported them to the Lithuanian border encouraging crossing into the country. The European Union has condemned the act as a violation of human rights as well as a violation of the sovereignty of Lithuania. Lithuania is seeking damages and reparations for border control costs. To what extent should Belarus be held accountable for its supposed actions? How can the UN and the ICJ ensure migrants are not weaponized in the future?

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/19/lithuania-files-case-against-belarus-at-icj-over-alleged-people-smuggling

• https://www.politico.eu/article/belarus-lithuania-the-hague-smuggling-migrants-borders/

• https://www.icj-cij.org/case/200

Guatemala Belize Territorial Dispute

Applicant Nation: Belize

Respondent Nation: Guatemala

Between Guatemala and Belize lies a disputed territory that is claimed by both countries. While conflict does not appear imminent, the territory has become rife with illicit activities. Narcotics, human trafficking, illegal fishing, and deforestation have become common in the region, with no clear responsible party. Is this territory something that can be divided, or does it belong to one of the countries outright? Should either country be compensated in any way 

Helpful Research Links:

• https://www.sanpedrosun.com/government/2025/07/23/icj-to-hear-guatemalas-intervention-in-belize-honduras-sapodilla-cayes-case/

• https://www.icj-cij.org/case/177

• https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/15/world/americas/belize-guatemala-border-dispute.html

Agenda Topics Authored by the Oregon MUN Secretariat.