BritMUN VIII

WATERUNDEROUR BRIDGE

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

DIRECTORS TEAM

COUNCILS

UNSC

COUNCIL OF MARVELS

CIA

UNPFII

FORMULA ONE

UNCSW

SPECPOL

UNCND

METAVERSE

UNFCCC

CONFEDERACION DE PSYCHOLOGIA

ECOFIN

DIRECTORS TEAM

In this issue, we bring you updates from our BRITMUN conference, including insightful articles from our 13 councils.

One of the most crucial roles in organizing an MUN conference is that of the Secretary Generals. The Secretary General is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the conference, from conceptualization to execution. They work closely with the organizing committee to ensure that the conference runs smoothly and successfully.

Samira, Veda and Khalid did just this, with the help of the committees, working tirelessly to bring this BRITMUN conference to life! Their determined spirit in organising behind the scenes, and ultimately displaying their production this weekend has undoubtedly inspired every participant at this MUN.

Thank you for your continued support, and we hope you enjoy reading this edition of our MUN newsletter.

Kind Regards,

The BRITMUN Team

UN SECURITY COUNCIL

HIGHLIGHT

Delegates from around the world convened at the United Nations Security Council on Friday 17th March to discuss the ongoing issue of ambiguous borders in the Arctic region The debate was marked by lively accents, musical chairs, and a heated discussion of territorial dominance.

Representatives from countries including Canada, Russia, and the United States took part in the debate, each taking on the accent and mannerisms of their respective nations. This added an extra layer of realism to the proceedings, as delegates argued over the best way to resolve the complicated issue of Arctic borders.

The chair of the Security Council, meanwhile, maintained a British accent throughout the proceedings, adding a touch of levity to the often serious discussions At one point, the delegates even took a break to play a game of musical chairs, allowing everyone to relax and have a bit of fun amidst the intense debate.

NO LAUGHING MATTER

But while the mood may have been lighthearted at times, the topic at hand was no laughing matter With melting ice caps and increasing global interest in the region's natural resources, the question of who has sovereignty over the Arctic has become a pressing concern for many nations. Delegates passionately put forward a range of proposals, with some advocating for increased cooperation and collaboration between nations, while others argued for a more assertive approach to territorial claims

The debate was at times intense, with delegates fiercely defending their countries' interests. But despite the disagreements, there was a sense of common purpose among the participants, with everyone acknowledging the importance of finding a peaceful and equitable solution to the Arctic's border issues.

CRUCIAL GLOBAL ISSUE

As the debate drew to a close, the delegates were left with the task of continuing to work towards a resolution to the Arctic border question While the road ahead may be long and challenging, the Security Council's discussion provided a valuable opportunity for nations to come together and address a crucial global issue.

MARVEL

The Marvel Council gathered to discuss important issues surrounding the superhero community One of the topics discussed was the criticism regarding the destruction caused by superheroes during their missions. The delegates have questioned whether government intervention is necessary in order to regulate or mitigate the damage caused by these superheroes.

The Captain America delegate raised concerns regarding the limitations that should be placed on Tony Stark, and investigations regarding the use of weapons It was noted that in 2008, Stark Industries stopped making weapons, which was a positive step towards a safer world

On a lighter note, the council also participated in a pushup challenge, which was a great opportunity for everyone to bond and have some fun

However, the discussion took a serious turn when the Bucky delegate shared his belief that he should be killed due to his mental instability. Some council members felt that he should be sent to prison instead, which sparked a debate about the appropriate measures for those with mental health issues.

Finally, Nick Fury's involvement in a Nazi cult was brought to light, which raised concerns about his integrity and suitability for his role in the superhero community.

Overall, the Marvel Council of Model United Nations had a productive and informative meeting, addressing important issues that affect both the superhero community and society as a whole.

CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) council also held a meeting on Friday 17th March to discuss the controversial figure of Edward Snowden, the former intelligence contractor who leaked classified information about government surveillance programs The debate was marked by passionate and heated discussions among the delegates, including some unmoderated caucus between the chairs

The issue of government surveillance has been a contentious one since Snowden's revelations came to light in 2013 While some see him as a heroic whistleblower who exposed unconstitutional and invasive government practices, others view him as a traitor who endangered national security

The delegates at the CIA meeting presented a range of opinions on the matter, with some arguing that Snowden's actions were a necessary check on government power, while others contended that he endangered the lives of intelligence agents and exposed sensitive information to foreign adversaries.

The delegates at the CIA meeting presented a range of opinions on the matter, with some arguing that Snowden's actions were a necessary check on government power, while others contended that he endangered the lives of intelligence agents and exposed sensitive information to foreign adversaries

During the unmoderated portion of the meeting, the chairs themselves engaged in a passionate debate, with some expressing their admiration for Snowden and others denouncing him as a criminal. The exchange highlighted the deep divisions that exist within the intelligence community and the broader public on this issue.

Despite the intense emotions surrounding the topic, the delegates remained civil and respectful towards one another, recognizing the importance of hearing and considering different viewpoints. While no consensus was reached on the matter, the meeting provided an opportunity for the CIA to grapple with the complex and controversial legacy of Edward Snowden, and to continue the ongoing debate around government surveillance and individual privacy.

UNPFII

The Delegate of Bolivia began their Opening speech by arguing that boarding schools that mixed Native Americans with others was a highly problematic move and that it led to, expectedly, disappointing results. To aid in avoiding the conflict that had been caused by the creation of these boarding schools, the Delegate of Chile suggested further education regarding indigenous people and their culture and traditions would avoid conflict and problems facing oppression. Later on during the day however, the Delegate of Colombia was questioned by the Delegate of Mongolia regarding the importance of Indigenous population on the economy, as Colombia was confident that they had no impact on the economy of a country. The Delegate of Costa Rica stated that the indigenous have a much more negative influence on the state of an economy. In response to the Delegates' differing opinions, both Chairs proposed an unmoderated caucus on whether Indigenous people affect the economy or not.

UNITED NATIONS PERMANENT FORUM ON INDIGENOUS ISSUES

During this caucus, the Delegate of Guyana stated that they had no impact on the economy, and that while there was a significant amount of money used, and effort taken- the Indigenous had little impact on an economy. To brighten up the mood after heated discussions, the Chairs decided to open the Gossip Box. The Chairs celebrated their love and companionship through a Diplomatic Marriage, and our Head of Marketing Safia was serenaded by the Council of UNPFII, who celebrated her birthday on Friday!

On a more serious note, on Saturday the Council held an unmoderated caucus on whether residential schools for Native American Children should still exist. Three delegates argued for the statement, while three others argued against it Delegates that agreed argued that human rights were necessary, and the existence of boarding schools doesn’t allow for the prospect for human rights.

F1

The F1 Council of MUN recently held a discussion on the topic of nepotism and its impact on the sport The Aston Martin delegate presented a compelling argument that nepotism is not necessary in F1. They believe that the best driver should be chosen based on their skills, rather than their connections. Lewis Hamilton, who came from a humble background, is a prime example of a driver who achieved success through merit.

On the other hand, the delegate of Alexander Wurtz argued that Lance Stroll did not deserve his F1 position based on talent alone, but rather because of his father's influence. This sparked a debate on whether or not nepotism should have a place in F1.

Stefano Domenicali's delegate expressed concerns over the negative effects of nepotism on the team They pointed out that Nicholas Latifi, despite having years of experience, had shown no improvement. This lack of progress was attributed to the fact that Latifi had gotten the position due to nepotism.

The council discussed a motion on whether the merit of F1 drivers is justified via nepotism The delegate of Haas argued that if a driver's performance is good, then nepotism is justified. However, the council aimed to reduce the harmful aspects of nepotism and discussed how it could be used positively to gain connections and lead to success.

LOREM IPSUM DOLOR SIT AMET

In conclusion, the F1 Council of MUN debated the issue of nepotism in the sport and its impact on drivers' merit. While some delegates argued for its positive aspects, others highlighted the negative effects it can have on the team and the sport as a whole. Ultimately, the council emphasized the importance of merit and fair selection of drivers based on their skills and abilities, rather than their connections

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The council emphasized the importance of merit and fair selection of drivers based on their skills and abilities, rather than their connections.

UNCSW

The ongoing advocacy for women’s rights, including the push for equity for women, was explored in the UNCSW, specifically in regards to reproductive and menstrual rights

Through a series of heated debates, and intense discussions, the council analysed the ways in which, and the extent to which, racial discrimination impacts reproductive and sexual rights

The Delegate of Lao made reference to the fact that laws regarding maternity leave have been established, whereas laws regarding menstrual leave have yet to be approved of. This brings forth the prevalent issues regarding women’s rights and sheds a light on their disregard in the medical sector In a contrasting viewpoint, a delegate labelled menstrual paid leave as “silly”

The delegate mentioned how in the USA, many women of colour are ignored and their symptoms dismissed, being told to “lose weight” rather than receiving the correct medical treatment - evident through the many reported cases of women undergoing unnecessary hysterectomies without the check-up of an ultrasound

However, many delegates argued that, when it came to the medical sector, it was critical to address criticism due to the persistence of racial prejudice. The Delegate of South Korea claimed that unnecessary surgeries were prevalent, and that many doctors “don’t care”.

The council discussed how non-surgical hysterectomies can be just as harmful as hysterectomies themselves The council advocated for bodily autonomy, especially regarding women, through a karaoke session in which they sang ‘Baby’ by Justin Bieber.

SPECPOL

“Apparently, walls don’t talk”, according to the Delegate of Vietnam. As true as that might be, the prospect of World War III is as loud as ever. With Russia declaring the release of nuclear bombs on the USA, and the USA retaliating with a nuclear bomb on China, debates call into question whether the UN itself has the capability of providing peace and balance within the world. The chair even went as far as stating that “the UN should be disbanded” and pushed for countries to participate in “isolationist policies” to avoid conflict.

All in all, the SPECPOL council was able to neutralise their atmosphere, specifically through the use of Taylor Swift. Chair Alkaabi referred to Dr Swift as being “absolutely iconic”, making this MUN experience “one of the best MUNs [she]’s ever been to”. The council celebrated a multitude of Diplomatic Marriages, the most notable one being the union between Vietnam and Saudi Arabia, specifically due to Saudi Arabia wanting to give their assets to Vietnam.

In a humorous turn of events, the United Kingdom and China upheld a union as a result of the UK wanting to manufacture in China. The council bonded over notes put into their gossip box, labelled “Burn Box”, referencing the infamous ‘Mean Girls’ movie; creating a sense of community and togetherness.

The SEPCPOL council had an intellectual debate regarding the ins and outs of war. Here are some highlights:

UNCND

On Friday, the Council had a solid start with Opening speeches, whereby the Delegate of Vietnam proposed their aim for a drug-free society, while the Delegate of Singapore proposed an unmoderated caucus on the topic of Asian contemporary drug policies and whether they were too harsh, with seven delegates, each speaking for one minute each. Regarding solutions for drug policies, the Delegate of South Korea stated that Japan should introduce much needed rehabilitation centres since Japan is able to afford it. Further, the Delegate of South Korea stated that citizens should be faced with some consequences, while avoiding anything too harsh, as it would be unethical- as is the current law, which is a death sentence.

However, the Delegate of India intervened, by stating that the issue with narcotics would progress further with looser laws. As a middle-ground, the Delegate of Thailand believed that warnings should be given increasingly, depending on offence. Following this, the Council held an unmoderated caucus on the opioid epidemic, whereby there were various inputs by lively delegates. Like many other councils, the Council of UNCND opened their Gossip Box, and this led to the Chairs slow dancing together, as well as the Delegate of Mexico getting a makeover! Most importantly, to inaugurate the union of Mexico and Japan, who hoped to be one region united, the Council of UNCND hosted a wedding!

METAVERSE

The increasing popularity of the Metaverse and its ever presence in our daily lives calls into question just how beneficial it can be. Could the Metaverse bring some positive changes in our lives? To what extent is it detrimental? The Metaverse council explored all aspects of its existence through a series of moderated and unmoderated caucuses.

In the midst of a certain heated unmoderated caucus, the Mark Zukerberg delegate was questioned regarding whether or not the Metaverse should even exist The delegate justified their creation, stating that “you can make jobs in the Metaverse, you could do so much” owever, other delegates argued that the Metaverse completely diminishes existing jobs and careers, emphasising its calamitous nature. Moreover, the impact of technology on the environment was highlighted.

Contrastingly, in a third operative, it was proposed that education should be introduced into the Metaverse in order to further enforce its utility. This conclusion was also reached in an attempt to address the addiction to social media, that is accompanied with negative mental health and social problems The council also discussed cybersecurity in the Metaverse and how breaches of safety could be addressed On a lighter note, a delegate referred to the chairs of this council as “cute”, being the fuel of the thrill, and the cause of many Diplomatic Marriages

UNFCCC

This council started Friday off strong with an unmoderated caucus after their ice-breakers! The motion regarded the root reason behind the lack of coverage regarding climate change and how this can be addressed While the energy was at an all-time high, this was taken advantage of and Delegates that argued for the statement. They believed that fossil fuel is a main factor in climate change, as is deforestation. They argued that making amendments with the USA would help them fund awareness campaigns for climate change. Later on, the Council had an unmoderated caucus on economic and environmental solutions to help climate change in Africa through a series of passionate points by several Delegates. After a long day of debating, the Chairs opened the Gossip Box, which resulted in an extremely surprising wedding, with the USA and China

During this celebration, the Chair/Officiator stated that she supports loving marriages and that “love is love”. On Saturday, the Council motioned for “What can countries do to limit the marine heatwaves and acidification”, where Delegates of Brazil, Argentina, South Sudan, and Mozambique took part. The Delegate of Argentina believes that acting on climate change through the reduction of fossil fuels and carbon conducted materials would be highly beneficial, as well as increasing the amount of trees to be planted per year. During the Gossip Box opening on Saturday, both Security members, Mariam and Omar were challenged to arm wrestle each other- with Omar winning! Further, the Council was in a very jolly mood, evident through the karaoke session to Justin Bieber’s “Baby”!

CONFEDERACIÒN DE PSYCHOLOGIA

On Friday, the Psychology Council began their eventful weekend with Opening speeches- whereby the Delegate of China comments on the stigma regarding the subject of psychology in several countries and regions, especially in countries in Africa Following Opening speeches, the Council held an unmoderated caucus on whether new policies should be invented or not The Delegate of the USA questioned the Delegate of China about the mental health statistics in their country, the Delegate of China was extremely passionate and in response, commented on the fact that rates differed in each country. One Delegate mentioned that “we can’t just make women go into positions in psychology if there are still issues like unequal pay.

Men never allow women to flourish”. The Delegate of China claimed that research has been constantly stolen from female researchers by men; “Are you aware that men view women as ‘emotional’?”. On Saturday, the Council discussed the mental effects of women that had been indoctrinated by youth, along with others, into believing social norms. This has led to infanticide being extremely common in third world countries. The Council also debated about women and how they are often perceived as weak, meaning they are more often than not, excluded from the workforce, and are not offered the same opportunities as men are. This concludes the topic of gender bias in psychology, as well as in our everyday life. Lastly, the Council brought up how the menstrual cycle can affect the mental well-being of many around the world, with one Delegate concluding this with a controversial statement that having a menstrual cycle can lead to murder.

ECOFIN

As the ECOFIN Council of MUN concluded, it was evident that the delegates, including firsttimers, were nothing short of amazing. These delegates showed to be superb debaters who actively participated in all the out-of-debate events.

The discussion of ill-gotten profits and illegal expenditures of funds was the council's main topic of discussion. Each delegate offered a distinct perspective during the conversation, along with a different solution to the issue. The delegates' unmods at the council were particularly entertaining and impressive, with discussions about things like shell businesses and unlawful money laundering.

The Brazilian delegate's amendment was one of the council's most memorable moments. The delegate's suggestion to throw out the entire resolution sparked an interesting and lively unmod session. The fact that the whole council, including the chairs, took part in the session demonstrated the delegates' degree of engagement and dedication.

The council also produced an outstanding resolution, which was the result of cooperation between representatives from several nations, including Russia, Brazil, the United States, the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Canada. The resolution offered a workable and efficient remedy for the problem of obtaining and using illegal funds.

Some members of the admin team found the council's unmod to be so fascinating that they couldn't help but want to participate. This highlighted the delegates' level of involvement and engagement even further.

As a result of the delegates' remarkable effort, the ECOFIN Council of MUN was a tremendous success Despite the fact that some were novices, they excelled at debating and took an active part in all activities.