Councils Overview
NTUMUN 2024 is proud to showcase its 14 councils, 4 of which are designed specifically for beginners.
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Beginner Councils: Suitable for delegates who have little or no experience in MUN. The Academics team has prepared an introductory training programme tailored to each council. This will cover the basics of MUN such as Rules of Procedure and Resolution writing. The topics are also fairly straightforward, making it the perfect stage for you to put what you have learned from the training programme to action and adapt to the MUN environment.
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The International Press Corps is also an excellent choice for delegates with a flair for journalism and literature.
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The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
Council type: Beginner - Physical
TOPIC 1: The Question of Improving Digital Financial Inclusion
Navigating the intersection of financial technology and inclusion, this committee delves into strategies for leveraging Fintech innovations to promote digital financial access while addressing the challenges and disruptions they may pose to traditional financial systems.
TOPIC 2: The Question of Climate Migration
Examining the pressing issue of climate-induced migration, this committee explores the impacts of environmental changes on population movements. Delegates will discuss policies and cooperative measures to address the humanitarian and socio-economic implications of climate-driven migration.
ECOSOC serves as a central platform for discussing international economic, social, and related issues. Comprising 54 member states, its mission is to promote sustainable development, foster global economic cooperation, and address challenges affecting social progress.
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
Council type: Beginner - Physical
TOPIC 1: The Question of Regulating Emerging New Psychoactive Substances
In recent years, the international community has witnessed a significant rise in the prevalence and diversity of new psychoactive substances (NPS), presenting a formidable challenge to public health, legal systems, and drug control policies worldwide. These substances, often synthetic analogs of traditional drugs, are designed to mimic the psychoactive effects of established narcotics like MDMA, cannabis, and cocaine, but with varying and often unpredictable potency and health risks. Yet, the agility of manufacturers in altering chemical compositions to stay ahead of legislation further exacerbates the issue.
Furthermore, the internet, particularly through dark web marketplaces and social media channels, significantly complicates regulatory and enforcement efforts, as traditional drug control measures are often ill-equipped to handle the anonymous and borderless nature of the internet. Meanwhile, with little awareness of their potential dangers, the public, especially youth in urban areas, is increasingly exposed to these substances. This exposure is not limited to recreational contexts but extends to peer networks and community spaces, where misinformation and social pressures can contribute to higher rates of experimentation and use.
TOPIC 2: The Question of Enhancement of Global Cybersecurity Infrastructure
As the pace of global digital transformation continues to accelerate, the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) is gradually being implemented and widely used in various industries and daily life. With the emergence of digitalization and globalization bringing about new potential solutions but risks, delegates have to navigate a new terrain in this digital era from data security concerns to cyberhacking and cipher scams to ideate new and effective solutions.
Disarmament & International Security Committee (DISEC)
(General Assembly First Committee)
Council type: Intermediate - Physical
DISEC is the UN General Assembly's main body for global disarmament and security. Although it lacks enforcement power, DISEC advises the UNSC, provides recommendations to member states, and addresses various security challenges through diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.
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TOPIC 1: The Question of the Trilateral Pact AUKUS
AUKUS, a 2021 trilateral pact between the US, UK, and Australia, involves acquiring nuclear submarines and collaborating on military capabilities. Controversial for canceling Australia's submarine deal with France, it raises concerns about regional arms race and nuclear proliferation, prompting DISEC to address disarmament and peacekeeping goals.
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TOPIC 2: The Question of Illicit Trade & Transfers of Small Arms & Light Weapons (SALW)
The illicit trade of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs) globally has caused over a million deaths, with 90% being civilian casualties. The widespread proliferation of SALWs, totaling almost 500 million, threatens socio-economic development and political stability, involving at least 100 countries in their production and transfer.
European Union (EU)
Council type: Intermediate - Physical
Often known as the supranational organisation which ties the Europe together, the European Union was founded with the aim of promoting deep political, economic and social integration between member states. In this iteration of NTUMUN, delegates will be discussing the topics of European Neighbourhood Policy and Net Zero Commitments, both which are close to the heart of the European Union.
TOPIC 1: The Question of the Enlargement and Neighbourhood Policy
With this topic, delegates will be revisiting the European Neighbourhood Policy previously launched in 2004, and reviewed in 2015 so as to determine its effectiveness and relevance moving forward in an ever changing world, especially with recent developments in the global and regional stage.
TOPIC 2: The Question of Net-zero Commitments in the EU
In a world ever more challenged by rising climate concerns, delegates of the EU have to examine their net-zero commitments, from their progress to their difficulties. Delegates will need to strike a balance between the environment and their local political factors, such as their economic, societal, and industrial developments, so as to develop a comprehensive plan moving forward.
National Diet of Japan (NDJ)
Council type: Intermediate - Physical
The National Diet of Japan, or Kokkai, is the legislative branch of the State of Japan. Composed of both an upper house and a lower house, the National Diet of Japan in this year’s NTUMUN will primarily focus on the lower house of Japan and will reflect the political setting of Japan and encourage delegates to participate and engage in the complicated and yet not often discussed political apparatus of the State of Japan. With a rich and illustrious political history beginning from the Meiji Constitution in 1890 to the present day, its lasting importance to Japan’s political system throughout the ages is something interesting to learn from.
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TOPIC 1: The Question on Revising Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution
Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution may sound mundane, but at its core is the highly contentious debate surrounding Japan’s national security interests, as well as its relationship with the US, China and the both Koreas. Beyond just whether the nation of Japan should continue renouncing its right to wage war, it also places forward the debate surrounding whether the Japanese nation should be allowed to maintain a standing army capable of exerting military force beyond her borders. Given the ever evolving dynamic of geopolitics in East Asia with the rise of China as the dominant military and economic powerhouse in the region and the increasing hostilities of North Korea, the Japanese Diet, as the stalwart embodiment of Japanese Democracy, has to decide on the future of the Japanese people and nation.
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TOPIC 2: The Question of Regulating Online Media
As Japan finds itself entering a new era of uncertainty, so does a new frontier of opportunity and worry emerge. Now the first frontline of conflict begins in cyberspace, with social media’s widespread dominance, the nation of Japan is not immune to its allure. The debate asks the Question of Regulating Online Media. Taking into consideration the rise of disinformation on social media platforms of Twitter (Now known as X), Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok, as well as the algorithm biases the exist within the platforms, countries like the US and multinational bodies like the EU have taken steps to combat this problem before it becomes uncontrollable, and in this council, the National Diet shall take on the issue of regulating online media for the security of the Japanese nation, while also considering the potential implications it may result in especially given the vested interests of China and the United States - the two most influential nations today, and the two with social media companies that have become internationally recognised names.
United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Council type: Advanced - Physical
NOTE: UNSC is a Double Delegation Council. Refer to registration form for details on double delegation councils.
Established in 1946 under Chapter V of the UN Charter, the UNSC, comprised of five permanent members with veto power and ten non-permanent members, holds the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, making legally binding decisions that encompass a range of actions, from sanctions to the authorization of the use of force.
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TOPIC 1: The Question on the Impacts of Artificial Intelligence on International Security
In the July 2023 Security Council meeting, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres led discussions on the potential challenges of AI, drawing parallels to the nuclear weapons discovery in World War II. Delegates expressed support for Guterres' call to establish frameworks for monitoring global AI development, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address threats and promote international cooperation.
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TOPIC 2: The Question of the Sahel Region
The Sahel region is grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis marked by conflict, human rights abuses, and weakened governance. With MINUSMA's termination looming, urgent attention is required to provide foreign aid, navigate challenges of corruption, and foster regional cooperation to effectively address the pressing issues in the Sahel.
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Council type: Advanced - Physical
NOTE: ASEAN is a Double Delegation Council. Refer to registration form for details on double delegation councils.
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Founded in 1967 with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations promotes political and economic cooperation amongst Member States in one of the fastest-growing regions in the world.
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TOPIC 1: The Question of Moderating Foreign Political Influence
Geographically situated along one of the busiest trade routes in the world, ASEAN Member States are no stranger to foreign interaction and influence. In recent years, however, foreign political influence has often split opinions within the bloc, threatening the unified front ASEAN aims to project abroad. How should Member States strike a balance between reaping the benefits of foreign political influence, and tempering its potential downside risk?
TOPIC 2: The Question of Human Trafficking
The illegal movement of people between Member States has been a longstanding issue within ASEAN, owing to porous borders and insufficient enforcement of immigration regulations. Furthermore, with the advent of the Internet, crime syndicates have been able to scale their operations and target a wider spectrum of victims. ASEAN must thus prove its sustained relevance in our changing world, through its ability to pool resources and coordinate law enforcement efforts among Member States.
Crisis
Council type: Advanced - Physical
TOPIC: The Great Irish Troubles
In the 1980s, unrest and violence engulfs Northern Ireland, as Irish nationalists clash against those who wish for the area to stay with the United Kingdom. Amidst a dramatic escalation in tensions, the resolute Irish Republican movement clashes with the equally resolute government of the UK, under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. In this evolving war of weapons and words, it is up to delegates to decide the fate of Northern Ireland.
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North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
Council type: Advanced - Physical
NATO embodies the principle of collective security. It is founded on the commitment to safeguarding nations that have devoted significant efforts to their collective defence. Stemming from the sacrifices made during WWII, NATO stands as the apex of regional defence among its member states, ready to take any necessary measures to protect against external threats and uphold the security of the nations involved.
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TOPIC: Dynamic Agenda - NATO’s future policy
Take the plunge into the Cold War - the height of NATO tensions. As the world closes in, delegates will be pressed to navigate through this tumultuous time. Offering a unique dual-body system and dynamic reactions, delegates will be tasked with shaping the course of the world's future. Are you ready to take this leap into uncharted territory?
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)
Council type: Beginner - Virtual
Most famous for its list of World Heritage Sites, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization aims to advance world peace and security through facilitating cooperation in the areas of education, science and culture.
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TOPIC 1: The Question of Urban Sustainability
Rapid urbanisation has lifted billions out of poverty, and improved the standard of living globally – more than half of the world's population now resides in urban areas, with this figure expected to reach 70% by 2050. The extensive growth of cities, however, has also exacerbated issues such as congestion, environmental degradation and the inequality of opportunity. How will States ensure the sustainable growth of their cities, and adapt them to changing demographic needs?
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TOPIC 2: The Question of Al in Media
The rise to ubiquity of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools has outpaced the implementation of relevant regulations, leaving vast gray areas pertaining to its use. Creative fields such as art and media, where authorship and attribution is less definite and intellectual property takes on a much wider range of forms, stand to lose the most from the unchecked use of generative AI. Can States agree upon a set of broad, future-proof guidelines governing activities in this emerging frontier, and what would they look like?
World Health Organization (WHO)
Council type: Beginner - Virtual
Founded in 1948, the World Health Organisation leads the international community to address key issues related to public health. During NTUMUN 2024, WHO delegates will be tasked to debate on two topics, namely the issues of Improving Mental Health and Healthcare in Crisis Zones.
TOPIC 1: The Question of Improving Mental Health
With the topic on mental health becoming a recent and explicit focus globally, delegates have to now carefully navigate the new battlefield in the field of healthcare, and determine it’s importance and relevance towards other policies and existing frameworks regarding healthcare. Delegates have to tread carefully, balancing various opinions and key stakeholders to ensure that a best fit solution is implemented or derived from debate, such that the global community as a whole benefits from their solutions.
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TOPIC 2: The Question of Healthcare in Crisis Zones
While focusing on new horizons, delegates now have to consider the provision of healthcare in crisis zones. While tackling healthcare concerns already challenge even first-world nations, delegates need to consider the provision of healthcare in areas which generally need the most healthcare, but lack it.
World Trade Organization (WTO)
Council type: Intermediate - Virtual
The WTO oversees global trade rules, providing a forum for member countries to negotiate and settle trade-related disputes. With a focus on liberalizing trade and ensuring fair practices, WTO plays a pivotal role in shaping international commerce.
TOPIC 1: The Question of Supply Chain Resilience
Focusing on the repercussions of global supply chain disruptions, this committee seeks solutions to maintain economic stability amidst challenges such as pandemics and geopolitical tensions. Delegates will explore strategies for resilience and cooperation in an interconnected world.
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TOPIC 2: The Question of Debt Restructuring for LEDCs
Addressing the economic challenges faced by Low-Income Countries (LICs), this committee tackles the question of restructuring debt infrastructure. Delegates will engage in discussions on sustainable solutions to alleviate debt distress and foster financial stability in vulnerable economies.
Arctic Council (AC)
Council type: Intermediate - Virtual
NOTE: AC is a Double Delegation Council. Refer to registration form for details on double delegation councils.
The Arctic Council was established in the wake of the 1996 Ottawa Declaration as a means for nations with holdings in the Arctic to discuss matters pertaining to the Arctic. Over the years, topics have ranged from indigenous rights, sustainable development and environmental issues such as pollution and climate change. A strictly non-political body, the Arctic Council faces the harsh reality of competing national interests and international commitments to the principles of the Arctic Council.
TOPIC 1: The Question on future energy explorations in the Arctic
The ‘Question on future energy explorations in the Arctic’ seeks to engage with the key idea of what this council is setting out to accomplish, to ask delegates to consider the ongoing conflicting interests between a delegate’s national energy policy, and the principles and existing status quo of the Arctic Council’s mission in the Arctic. With the ongoing discussions of energy security in a turbulent era, the Arctic’s estimated 90 billion barrels of the world’s undiscovered conventional oil resource are going to be placed at the forefront of debate for the Arctic Council.
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TOPIC 2: The Question of Biodiversity Conservation and Indigenous Well-Being of the Arctic Region
This topic puts the ever-important issue of indigenous rights into the discussion of Arctic Issues. These habitants of the Arctic have been around longer than the nations that have grown to encompass it, and with the widening gap between what the nation and the indigenous people want for the Arctic that they both share, the question remains at the heart of the Arctic Council’s mission. Additionally, the paramount debate on climate change and biodiversity also raises the question on whether Arctic Nations are doing enough to protect and address the environmental issues facing the Arctic from the ever worsening climate change.
International Press Corps
Council type: N.A. - Physical/Virtual
OVERVIEW:
The general purpose of the press corps is to cover developments in the various committees. Delegates will become journalists from different news agencies around the world and will be required to report on the various happenings within the MUN. One must align themselves with their news agencies stance, writing style and political affiliations – just like any other delegate representing their respective entities within the MUN. It is important to be aware of every committees’ agenda, as most press delegates will be attending the majority, if not all (as per schedule constraints) of the committees in order to get a feel for as many as possible.
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PRESS CONFERENCES:
About 10 minutes in length. The focus is on asking relevant and pertinent questions, which can incite debate or challenge a delegate’s stance on a particular issue.
Interviews: can take place during unmod sessions, or during free time – however, it is completely up to the delegate’s discretion regarding whether they want to do it or not. Interviews should be concise and to the point, with select questions prepared beforehand.
ARTICLES:
Must be concise and relevant. Should also align with the agencies’ affiliations – for example, the Global Times cannot badmouth or question a delegate representing China’s stance!
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PHOTOGRAPHY:
Would be nice to have photos with every article – but try not to disrupt committee sessions or cause general chaos in the pursuit of the best photo!