VMUN delegate handbook - the twentieth annual
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
the twentieth annual VMUN delegate handbook
2 Letters of Greeting
6 Secretariat
9 Keynote Speaker
10 Schedule
11 Conference Policy
12 Committees Programme
19 Rules of Procedure Guidelines
20 Sponsors
delegate handbook
1
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
UNITED NATIONS NATIONS UNIES
THE SECRETARY-GENERAL
MESSAGE TO VANCOUVER MODEL UNITED NATIONS
(VMUN) CONFERENCE 2021
Vancouver, British Columbia, 29 to 31 January 2021
Our world faces an unprecedented crisis that is causing widespread human suffering,
upending lives, devastating the global economy and risking reversals of hard-won progress
towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
In these trying times, I welcome the holding of your Model United Nations activity.
Your unwavering commitment to international cooperation is essential for tackling the
COVID-19 pandemic -- the biggest test our world has faced since the Second World War.
We can only defeat the coronavirus if we do so globally. We must recognize that
the poorest countries and most vulnerable will be the hardest hit, and that decades of
development gains could be reversed. Countries already suffering armed conflict now face
further upheaval. And the pandemic is having a disproportionate impact on the world’s
women.
The United Nations is undertaking a wide-ranging response – calling for a global
ceasefire and working to control the pandemic, save lives, mitigate the socio-economic
impacts, fight stigma and recover better.
We are strongly committed to providing full support to all, guided by our shared
values. The world needs your energy, and I draw great hope from seeing your generation
mobilize to address the challenges of our time and to build a healthier, more equitable and
sustainable future for all.
In that spirit of common cause, I wish you a successful Model United Nations
conference.
2
welcome
January 29–31, 2021
Dear Friends:
I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to everyone taking
part in the 2021 Vancouver Model United Nations.
This conference offers delegates a wonderful opportunity to
experience international diplomacy first hand and to gain deeper
insights into pressing issues facing the world today. Through
twenty-one unique committees, students will learn more about the policies and
positions of different countries on a wide variety of topics as they engage in debate
and discussion with their peers from around the world.
It continues to be a challenging time for planning and hosting events. That is why I
would like to thank the dedicated organizers for making this year’s conference virtual
so that it could still take place. I would also like to commend all of the students
taking part for their hard work in preparing for these deliberations. I am certain that
you will benefit greatly from this opportunity to lead, negotiate and collaborate, and
that you will come away inspired to create positive change as informed and engaged
global citizens.
Please accept my best wishes for an exciting and rewarding experience.
Sincerely,
The Rt. Hon. Justin P.J. Trudeau, P.C., M.P.
Prime Minister of Canada
3
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
welcome from the secretary-general
Dear Teachers, Parents, and Prospective Delegates,
It is my honour to cordially invite you to the Vancouver Model United Nations 2021 conference. Vancouver
Model United Nations (VMUN) is the largest student-run Model UN conference in Canada and one of the most
prestigious conferences on the continent, having hosted over 1,600 delegates, staff, teachers, and distinguished
guests in 2021. VMUN 2021 will be held virtually from January 29-31th 2021.
Since its inception in 2002, VMUN has strived to provide a realistic, engaging, and exciting simulation of the
United Nations and its associated agencies for passionate youth who are interested in global issues. Long-
acknowledged as one of Canada’s preeminent Model UN conferences, VMUN has, over the years, garnered a
reputation as a professional, vibrant, and affordable experience for all delegates. We are proud to once again offer
the top-notch debate quality, staff, and keynote speakers that have become synonymous with VMUN.
Our Secretariat team is working hard to prepare the best conference to date and we are more than excited to be
sharing our work with you. We are committed to expanding the diversity of our delegate pool, optimizing our
committees and technical systems in order to provide the best possible delegate experience, and providing the
same high quality conference we have become known for throughout North America and beyond. Especially on a
virtual platform, VMUN 2021 is striving to expand the scope of our delegate pool beyond our typical geographic
limitations.
In addition to offering a diverse and educational experience, VMUN also offers considerable financial aid
for delegates who could not otherwise afford to attend. We firmly believe that no willing delegate should be
prevented from attending VMUN due to financial concerns. For more information about our payment structure
or how to register your school, please refer to our page, www.vmun.com/registration.
To transfer the same high-quality debate and atmosphere to an online platform, we are excited to work with
Classrooms.Cloud to create a custom-made virtual platform for our 20th iteration. While this experience may
seem different than the traditional committee room, we are confident that our professional staff, informative
backgrounders, and engaging debate will allow for an immersive experience.
Regards,
William Tsai
Secretary-General
Vancouver Model United Nations 2021
4
welcome
A MESSAGE FROM
PREMIER JOHN HORGAN
As Premier of the Province of British Columbia, I am honoured to extend my warmest
greetings to everyone participating in the 20th Annual Session of Vancouver Model United
Nations (VMUN).
This annual event is an important forum where students who are passionate about global
issues are inspired to become more thoughtful global citizens. The pandemic has dominated
much of our focus this year and has been particularly hard on youth. You are our future
leaders, lawmakers, and diplomats and your voices provide valuable perspectives. I know
from personal experience that public discourse takes practice, focus and preparation, and
VMUN provides space to develop these essential skills along with the opportunity to enjoy
a sense of shared purpose and establish meaningful connections. I encourage you all to gain
as much as possible from this experience and have fun.
An online conference of this magnitude takes an incredible amount of time and energy to
organize, and I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your dedicated efforts in
making this virtual event possible. To the delegates — I commend you all on your hard work
preparing for this year’s session.
Please accept my best wishes for a wonderful session. I have no doubt your enthusiasm will
ensure the 20th Annual Session of Vancouver Model United Nations is a success!
HONOURABLE JOHN HORGAN
PREMIER OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
5
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
william tsai Secretary-General
Currently in Grade 12 at St. George’s School, William is pleased to serve as the Secretary-
General of VMUN 2021. An avid enthusiast of politics, history, and international affairs,
William was captivated by Model UN ever since witnessing his first committee session in
Grade 6. Since then he has staffed multiple committees, passed countless resolutions, and
submitted countless more crisis directives, turning strangers and unmet dais members
into trusted friends. Outside of his involvement in Model UN, William is often seen
working on his school’s yearbook, translating millennia-old Latin passages, and strongly
defending his opinions on Cross-Strait relations. For the twentieth iteration of Vancouver
Model United Nations, William looks forward to an engaging, unforgettable experience
for everyone involved.
vivian gu Director-General
Since attending her first conference as an eager Grade 8, Vivian has fallen helplessly
in love with the intriguing and enchanting world of Model United Nations. Changing
her life for the better, Model United Nations has helped her discover her passion for
international affairs, make irreplaceable memories, and form lifelong friendships.
Currently in her Grade 12 year at Crofton House School, Vivian is exuberant to be
serving as the Director-General of VMUN 2021. Outside of Model United Nations,
Vivian can be caught binging late-night satires, trying her best to osmose her study notes,
undertaking the mission of trying every dessert shop in Vancouver with her friends,
convincing herself that she has a sense of direction, and curling up with a good book in
her lap. Vivian looks forward to a weekend filled with riveting debate and discussion.
derek wu Chief of Staff
A Grade 12 student at St. George’s School, Derek is unequivocally honoured to serve as
your Chief of Staff for VMUN 2021. Since first walking through the Hyatt Regency doors
three years ago, Derek has grown to love the thrilling diplomacy and politics of Model
United Nations. Now entering his fourth iteration of the conference, Derek hopes to
instill that same passion within all delegates. When not brainstorming ideas for overly
niche historical crises, Derek can be found reading about obscure Canadian political
history, habitually listening to kdrama soundtracks on repeat, or tearfully watching
the injury bug devastate his beloved San Francisco 49ers. Derek eagerly anticipates a
weekend of exhilarating debate and hopes that all delegates have a VMUN experience
they will never forget.
tyler rosenzweig Director of Logistics
Tyler is a Grade 12 student at St. George’s School and is absolutely delighted to serve as
the Director of Logistics for VMUN 2021. This will be Tyler’s fourth and final VMUN,
and he cannot fully articulate how influential this conference has been to him. One of
his most memorable experiences is when he first walked into a Hyatt Regency ballroom
as Liberia in DISEC, but found himself falsifying his delegate identity as the “Pope”. In
his spare time, Tyler can be found desperately locating the nearest McDonald’s, playing
basketball, and crying after the New York Jets fail to make the playoffs for the tenth
straight year. With many of his most cherished memories made engaging in this non-
spectator sport, Tyler looks forward to a weekend of fruitful and inspiring debate for all.
6
secretariat
joyce chen USG General Assemblies
Joyce is a Grade 12 student at Little Flower Academy and is ecstatic to be serving as
the USG of Committees, General Assemblies for VMUN 2021. It is with immeasurable
gratitude that she credits Model UN for inciting her interest in international relations;
countless conferences later, she has grown to consider opposing perspectives in her
worldview, to remain cognizant of issues that persist beyond her own borders, and to
engender this knowledge in generations of leaders to come. More importantly, however,
she has found a second family in the people she met along the way. In her free time,
Joyce enjoys watching sunsets, overanalyzing movies, playing volleyball, or reading about
political theory. She sincerely looks forward to meeting you at VMUN 2021!
ethan jasny USG Specialized Agencies
A Grade 12 student at West Point Grey Academy, Ethan is thrilled to be serving as the
USG of Specialized Agencies at VMUN 2021. Ever since scrambling up the treacherous
“Nature Walk” to reach the 34th floor for the League of Arab States in Grade 8, Ethan has
been captivated by international humanitarian and political issues and has developed a
passion for public speaking and debate. He is particularly grateful for the friends he has
made along the way and the memories that he will cherish for the rest of his life. When
not moderating cauci, Ethan enjoys playing the bass guitar, stress-eating popcorn, rooting
for the perpetual underdog New York Yankees, collecting snow globes, and watching his
favourite marble-racing team. He looks forward to seeing you all soon!
vivian liang USG Conference
Five years ago, Vivian started her Model UN journey as the shy, inexperienced delegate
at the back of a VMUN conference room. Little by little, MUN has grown to be an
irreplaceable patch of Vivian’s identity, helping form some of her closest and most
treasured friends and memories. Vivian is currently a Grade 12 student at York House
School and is beyond delighted to be serving as the USG of Conference for VMUN 2021.
It is through Model UN that Vivian discovered her interest in humanitarian issues and
she hopes that VMUN can help you discover your passions too. Outside the conference
room, Vivian is an avid matcha enthusiast, an overly competitive recreational water polo
player, and a 24/7 therapist for her friends. Vivian is confident that VMUN 2021 will be
one to remember and can not wait to meet you all soon!
jonah ezekiel USG Finance
Looking back on his highschool career, some of Jonah’s fondest memories and most
transformative moments have occurred in the VMUN committee room. He still
remembers the flurry of nervousness and excitement that came with stepping up to
the podium for the first time and snippets of his speech on the dangers of hydraulic
fracturing. He is delighted to be serving as the USG of Finance for his final iteration of
this extraordinary conference, and have a part in bringing similar meaningful experiences
to delegates. When not busy with the world of diplomacy, Jonah can be found fixing his
3D printer, writing then having to rewrite unreadable code, or discussing solutions to
climate change. Though certainly different, Jonah looks forward to an equally rewarding
and memorable weekend at VMUN 2021. “See” you there!
7
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
laura choi USG Communications
Currently, in her final year of both High school and Model UN, Laura is a Grade 12 student
attending Pacific Academy and is honoured to serve as the USG Communications for this
unprecedented iteration of VMUN 2021. Since her first conference where she recited a
pre-written speech with shaking vocal cords, to the “delegate decorum”s she yelled across
a bustling committee room, her passion for international relations and diplomacy has also
only grown. More importantly, she made unforgettable friends and memories both inside
and outside of the committee room. Aside from Model UN, Laura can be found starting up
her pomelo farm, driving around with sub-par skills, and ki-apping around her Taekwondo
gym. All formalities aside, Laura looks forward to the most unforgettable and innovative
VMUN Conference yet, and she looks forward to seeing all of you there!
armaan jaffer USG Delegate Affairs
A Grade 11 student attending St. George’s School, Armaan is honoured to be serving as
one of the USGs of Delegate Affairs for VMUN 2021. Armaan’s Model UN journey first
began at VMUN, and his experiences at the conference—whether they be from delegating
or directing—form some of his fondest memories. Ever since raising his placard for the
first time, Armaan has learned to recognize the value of listening to a variety of different
perspectives and not being afraid to voice and share his own ideas. When not dressed in
western business attire, Armaan can be found learning new (and old) languages, playing
on the soccer field, and exploring unknown places. Armaan is confident that this year’s
iteration of VMUN will be one to remember, and is looking forward to a weekend filled
with captivating debate and discussion.
mia tsao USG Delegate Affairs
Entering her grade 11 year at Crofton House School, Mia is thrilled to be serving as one
of the USGs of Delegate Affairs for VMUN 2021. Since her very first conference, Mia’s
passion for politics and international affairs has only grown, as she is captivated time and
time again by the intense debate that committee sessions foster. Despite the exhaustion of
sleepless nights and the organized chaos that is typing crisis directives, Mia can only recall
her memories in the MUN circuit with a genuine adoration. Outside of Model UN Mia
can be found testing her non-existent driving skills, discovering new restaurants, binge-
watching the Studio Ghibli films and discussing with friends about the significance of a
good nap. Her affinity towards these hobbies, though, pale in comparison to her passion for
ensuring delegates attending VMUN 2021 a memorable experience.
8
secretariat / keynote speaker
keynote speaker
ASAF LUBIN
Dr. Lubin’s research centers around the intersection of law and technology,
particularly as it relates to the regulation of cybersecurity harms, liabilities,
and insurance as well as policy design around governmental and corporate
surveillance, data protection, and internet governance. His work draws on
his experiences as a former intelligence analyst, Sergeant Major (Res.), with
the IDF Intelligence Branch as well as his vast practical training and expertise
in national security law and foreign policy. Dr. Lubin’s work additionally
reflects his time spent serving as a Robert L. Bernstein International Human
Rights Fellow with Privacy International, a London-based non-for-profit
devoted to advancing the right to privacy in the digital age and curtailing
unfettered forms of governmental and corporate surveillance.
9vmun 2020 delegate handbook
VMUN 2021 Schedule
Friday, January 29, 2021
3:30 pm — 4:00 pm Registration and Sign-In
4:00 pm — 5:30 pm Opening Ceremonies
5:30 pm — 6:30 pm Dinner
6:30 pm — 7:40 pm Committee Session I
7:40 pm — 7:50 pm Break
7:50 pm — 8:50 pm Committee Session I
8:50 pm — 9:00 pm Break
9:00 pm — 10:00 pm Committee Session I
Saturday, January 30, 2021
8:00 am — 9:30 am Committee Session II
9:30 am — 9:40 am Break
9:40 am — 10:50 am Committee Session II
10:50 am — 11:00 am Break
11:00 am — 12:00 pm Committee Session II
12:00 pm — 1:30 pm Lunch
1:30 pm — 2:30 pm Committee Session III
2:30 pm — 2:40 pm Break
2:40 pm — 3:40 pm Committee Session III
3:40 pm — 3:50 pm Break
3:50 pm — 4:50 pm Committee Session III
4:50 pm — 5:00 pm Break
5:00 pm — 6:00 pm Committee Session IV
6:00 pm — 7:30 pm Dinner
7:30 pm — 9:30 pm Delegate Social Activities
Delegates are invited to participate in a variety of virtual social activities. Activities will be
accessible via VMUN’s online platform.
9:40 pm — 11:00 pm Committee Session IV
The University of British Columbia (UBC) will be holding a virtual information session, 7:30 pm—8:30 pm.
Sunday, January 31, 2021
8:00 am — 10:00 am Morning Crisis
All committees hold a morning crisis. Attendance is mandatory.
10:00 am — 10:20 am Break
10:20 am — 11:50 am Committee Session V
11:50 am — 12:00 pm Break
12:00 pm — 1:30 pm Committee Session V
1:30 pm — 2:30 pm Lunch
2:30 pm — 4:00 pm Closing Ceremonies
10 10Conference Policies
delegate conduct
At all times, delegates are expected to conduct themselves in a professional, mature, and courteous manner, in
keeping with VMUN’s commitment to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment. Delegates
must follow all instructions from VMUN Staff and Secretariat members and Hyatt Regency personnel, including
hotel security. Destructive or obnoxious behaviour will not be tolerated. VMUN also has a zero-tolerance policy
regarding the possession or consumption of illegal drugs, including alcohol, tobacco, and nicotine-containing
products. Delegates are required to be in their own rooms after curfew and may not have guests unaffliated with
the conference, or delegates of the other sex, in their hotel rooms at any time.
dress code
In order to best preserve the diplomatic atmosphere of the United Nations, VMUN emphasizes professionalism,
appropriate conduct, and proper dress code. Women should wear a dress, suit, dress slacks, or skirt, with a blouse
or sweater (no jeans) and dress shoes (no sneakers or casual sandals). Men should wear a suit or a jacket and dress
pants (no jeans), with a dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes (no sneakers). Delegates must wear their nametags at all
times while in the hotel for security purposes. If a staff member believes a delegate is inappropriately dressed, he or
she reserves the right to ask the delegate to change clothes before participating in committee session.
technology use
Delegates are required to use a computer with a functional microphone and webcam to access the online platform.
Webcams are expected to be kept on for the duration of the committee session. If delegates do not have access
to a webcam or are unable to use a webcam throughout the conference, please contact your Committee Dais.
Electronic devices may be used to aid in research, the writing of working paper and draft resolutions, and for
other academic purposes. In Crisis Committees, an online system will be utilized for all directives in lieu of a
paper-based directive system.
awards
At VMUN, delegates are evaluated by their committee staff holistically for awards. This means that all aspects of
Model UN, including speaking and rhetorical ability, level of involvement, diplomatic skills, leadership, creative
thinking, and the completion of a position paper, will be taken into account. Award-winners also demonstrate
a comprehensive knowledge of their committee’s topics and represent their country’s policies accurately. Each
committee will grant one Best Delegate award, in addition to one or more Outstanding Delegate awards and
Honourable Mentions depending on size. Each committee (except JCC) will also present a Best Researched
Delegate award to the delegate with the most well-written position paper.
11
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
general assemblies
disec Disarmament and International Security Committee
Director Emily Ni Chair Leo Li AD Michelle Zhai David Xia
Anglophone Crisis in Mali | Combating Global Piracy
From fast-paced conflict resolution to revolutionary policy changes, the Disarmament and
International Security Committee lies at the forefront of the United Nations General Assembly.
As the first committee of the General Assembly, DISEC addresses conflicts and threats to
international peace, and tries to maintain global stability and security. Although its resolutions are
non-binding, DISEC’s efforts are highly influential and often lay the groundwork for resolutions
in other committees of the United Nations. The vast membership of DISEC makes it an especially
important organ for dealing with issues of an international scope.
sochum Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee
Director Emma-Jane Burns Chair Justin Jia AD Lily Li Anik Nielsen
Ethics of Countering Terrorism | Healthcare Disparities for Indigenous Peoples
The Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee is the third General Assembly of the United
Nations, tasked with a broad mandate surrounding social, humanitarian, and human rights issues
from around the world. To delineate a general idea of the committee, some issues discussed
within SOCHUM include, but are not limited to: human rights, global literacy, women’s rights,
children’s rights, the treatment of refugees and displaced persons, international drug control, crime
prevention, and the elimination of racism and discrimination. SOCHUM also works closely with
many other UN bodies in order to effectually address its mandated issues.
who World Health Organization
Director Alishba Irfan Chair Kevin Roe AD Brandon Chan Lauren Thomas
Inaccessibility of Medicine | Childhood Obesity
The World Health Organization was established in 1948 and is composed of 193 Member States.
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the organization’s role is to serve as the “authority for health
within the United Nations system,” and to provide “leadership on global health matters.” Current
objectives of the WHO are laid out in a Six-Point Agenda aimed at responding to the challenges of
an “increasingly complex and rapidly changing landscape” of global public health. The points on
the agenda are: (1) promoting development; (2) fostering health security; (3) strengthening health
systems; (4) harnessing research, information and evidence; (5) enhancing partnerships; and (6)
improving performance.
12committees programme
committees programme
intermediate agencies
unhrc United Nations Human Rights Council
Director Nick Liu Chair Rafeeq Kassam-Jiwani AD Katrina Sun
Human Rights of Migrant Workers | Strengthening Whistleblower Protection Policies
The United Nations Human Rights Council concerns itself with human rights issues such as the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict, LGBT rights, women’s rights, and rights to sanitation, housing, and
security. Some of the UNHRC’s current inquiries are with regards to violations in the Democratic
People’s Republic of Korea and Syria. The Council can discuss both country-specific human
rights abuses and consider policy implementation to better the situations of affected populations.
Members hold their seat on the Council for three years, after which an elected country from their
regional group replaces them.
unesco United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Director Angel Yuan Chair Angela Lu AD Daniel Roozbeh
Literacy in Developing Countries | Access to Information in Rural Areas
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization was founded in 1945 with the
purpose of “contributing to peace and security by promoting international collaboration through
educational, scientific, and cultural reforms in order to increase universal respect for justice, the
rule of law, and human rights.” UNESCO pursues its objectives through five major programs:
education, natural sciences, social/human sciences, culture and communication/information, and
has sponsored a myriad of projects relating to education, media, and world history.
unodc United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
Director Cindy Zhang Chair Eric Li AD Victoria Munro
Role of Organized Crime in Political Suppression | Decriminalization of Drugs
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has worked to fight against illicit drug trades,
international crime, and terrorism since its creation in 1997. These three areas include many distinct
and varied specializations that UNODC Member States attempt to resolve. The UNODC pursues
its goals through three avenues: research and increasing understanding of issues, supporting
local governments in fighting issues, and supporting the ratification of treaties regarding issues.
The UNODC is also known for its annual World Drug Report detailing trends and changes in
worldwide drug use and production.
13
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
unep United Nations Environment Programme
Director Nikki Wu Chair Lincoln Lee AD Yirui Tao
Transboundary Air Pollution | Environmental Consequences of War
The United Nations Environment Programme is an organization that convenes, facilitates, and
provides scientific assessments, analyses, and projects in order to stimulate international policy
responses. It partners with and leads major programmes such as REDD+ and the GEF. The
UNEP is the lead body on climate change, sustainable development, biodiversity, environmental
governance, harmful substances, and resource efficiency. Perhaps most notably, the UNEP has
assisted in creating guidelines and treaties on issues such as the trade of harmful chemicals,
transboundary air pollution, and contamination of international waterways.
undp United Nations Development Programme
Director Madeline Kim Chair Noah Wong AD Yian Zhang
Promoting Sustainable Energy in Developing Nations | HIV/AIDS Epidemic Among Women
The United Nations Development Programme works particularly with developing countries
to help facilitate sustainable and equitable development. With operations in 177 countries and
territories, it is one of the most ubiquitous UN organizations and has proved itself to be among
the most successful. Since 2015, the UNDP has focused on achieving the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 goals constituting “a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the
planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity”.
unwto United Nations World Tourism Organization
Director Jasper He Chair Owen Ebose AD Emily Ramlochun
Environmental Impacts of Tourism | Vulnerabilities in Tourist-Reliant Economies
The United Nations World Tourism Organization is a global platform for tourism experts and
policymakers to collaborate. Founded in 1974, the UNWTO is comprised of 159 member states, 6
associate members, and 2 observers. It remains the most powerful tourism entity in the world and
strives to include tourism in international policies aiming at sustainability, sector competitiveness,
and poverty reduction. Championing anti-racism, anti-sexism, and anti-discrimination efforts,
the UNWTO also advocates for diversity in the tourism sector and equal opportunities through
analyzing countries’ needs and providing education programs. It endeavours to involve the private
sector, local tourism entities, research institutions, the United Nations, and civil society to help
better the tourism sector. As part of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the UNWTO
facilitates a worldwide venue for skill-sharing, which serves crucial in creating a sustainable yet
competitive tourism sector.
14committees programme
committees programme
regional councils
nato North Atlantic Treaty Organization
Director David Deng Chair Naomi Chin AD Leia Tsao
Russia’s Influence in Eastern Europe and the Balkans | Arms Control and Non-Proliferation
In the wake of the Second World War, the Allied nations decided to continue their alliance,
politically and militarily, in order to prevent the international spread of communism, a genuine
threat to NATO’s existence. That alliance became known as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization,
named after its establishing North Atlantic Treaty. In the latter half of the 20th century, NATO was
confronted with the Warsaw Pact, a rival military organization associated with the Soviet Union
and the gradual rise of communism. With the fall of the Soviet Union, however, NATO is adapting
to the 21st century and has increasingly assumed a role as a peacekeeping organization beyond that
of a military alliance.
eu European Union
Director Austin Ma Chair Jasmine Yang AD Finn Meiklejohn
The European Union and Turkey | Immigrant Integration
Formed in 1993 by the Maastricht Treaty, the European Union is one of the most powerful
economic and regional unions in the world. It has 28 member states and many institutions from
all over the gubernatorial spectrum, like the European Parliament, the European Court of Justice,
and the European Commission. The European Union’s goal is to expand as much as possible,
until one day it hopefully includes every European state, while promoting strong economic and
political relations between its countries. Its mandate is to pool together the sovereignty of its
members, most of which were once global superpowers that have now individually diminished,
and create a powerful European confederation with a say in the goings-on of the highest echelons
of international politics and diplomacy.
idu International Democrat Union
Director Kai Choi Chair Sophia Chong AD James Zhang
Climate Change and Conservatism | Conservatism’s Voter Appeal
Founded in 1983 with the intention of promoting democracy and centre-right politics across the
world, the International Democrat Union (IDU) is an organization of conservative-leaning political
parties who collaborate in matters of policy-making, political strategy, and organization. With over
70 members from every inhabited continent, parties ranging from domineering ruling parties to
minuscule opposition parties are all represented within this unique political international.
15
vmun 2020 delegate handbook
legislative bodies
hoc House of Commons
Speaker Cynthia Gan Deputy Speaker Matthew Chen
Clerk Ellie Hwang Caitlin Adams Ryan Meira
Police and RCMP Reform
The House of Commons of Canada is vastly different from the typical MUN committee experience.
Abandon the diplomatic, ordered debate of the United Nations and plunge into the thrilling world
of party politics, parliamentary strategy and Question Period. Debate issues that strike closer to
home, and connect to how your pursuits, if made real, could deeply affect the future of Canada.
This is what prospective Members of Parliament should expect upon joining this exciting and
exclusive VMUN committee.
u.s. senate United States Senate
Director Joshua Dar Santos Chair Kathy Wu AD Mike Zhang
The Military-Industrial Complex
u.s. house United States House of Representatives
Director Betty Pan Chair Ellen Li AD Byeongjun Moon
Prison Reform
Founded under the Constitution, the United States Congress had its first meeting on March 4, 1789.
Congress consists of two houses: the Senate, the upper chamber, and the House of Representatives,
the lower chamber. The Senate consists of 100 members, while the House of Representatives
consists of 435 voting members. In the 116th Congress, the Republican Party holds the majority in
the Senate, and the Democratic Party holds the majority in the House. Both chambers’ goals are to
produce legislation that influences both the American people and the government. Specifically, the
Senate has the power to confirm presidential appointees, ratify treaties, and try impeachment cases.
Conversely, the House has the power to initiate revenue-related bills, impeach federal officials, and
elect the President in the rare case of an electoral college tie. The U.S. Congress is undeniably
one of the world’s legendary legislative bodies, and its sheer complexity is directly reflected in the
challenging, yet rewarding nature of this committee.
16committees programme
committees programme
advanced and crisis committees
unsc United Nations Security Council
Director Andrew Liu Chair Stephanie Hai
UN Peacekeeping Malpractice | Stability in South Sudan
As the single most powerful UN entity, the Security Council is responsible for addressing all issues
threatening international peace and security. The Security Council must work to create effective
resolutions with clear and powerful language that will have tangible results in the real world. In
facing this immense responsibility, the committee will utilize several tools of diplomacy usually
unavailable to any other agency. The veto power of the Permanent Five (P5) members gives the
UNSC a uniquely intense flair that is unlike any other committee.
jcc Joint Crisis Committees: The Crimean War, 1852
Director Ben Kang Bloc Director Richard Chen Adam Dawood
Chair Peter Zhang Harvey Riches Crisis Staff Hannah Baumgard Chris Shojania
The Joint Crisis Committees are very different from the normal MUN experience, yet equal
even the United Nations Security Council in their complexity and challenge. JCC consists of
two independently running subcommittees whose decisions and actions immediately affect
the perpetual crisis at hand, thus providing for an experience like no other. The ritual raising
of placards is replaced with international espionage, fast-paced decision-making, and incessant
debates; all aimed to destroy the ideological enemy. What delegates will be asked to deal with is
only partially revealed for your preparation; covert plots, terrible luck, and the well-meaning—or
hostile—actions of the opposing committee together offer an unpredictable, volatile, and urgent,
but undoubtedly exciting, experience. If the bloc as a whole is to succeed, the delegates must
compromise, negotiate, and persevere in a battle of diplomatic wit; after all, there is a nemesis
waiting, biding its time.
hcc Historical Crisis Committee: The Congo Crisis, 1960
Director Annushka Agarwal Chair Alec Yang Crisis Staff Logan Higgins
The year is 1960 and Congo is in a state of political disarray. After recent independence from
Belgium, tensions are at an all-time high, with a burgeoning military insurrection and rivalling
blocs fighting for a stake in government. As colonial structures of power dissolve, Congo’s political
landscape has been fragmented into factions with drastically different visions for the Congolese
social order. Meanwhile, secessionist regions of Katanga and South Kasai grow increasingly
disillusioned with their exclusion from national politics, and divisions that have been suppressed
by Belgian rule are coming to the light. It is up to delegates to choose whether the Congo will grow
into a pluralistic democracy, or whether it will revert to the hierarchy and conflict which citizens
have suffered for centuries.
17vmun2021
2020delegate
vmun delegatehandbook
handbook
fcc Fictional Crisis Committee: The Narco-American Conflict, 2035
Director Jeremy Fang Chair Koby Chen Crisis Staff Sakura Gibson
The year is 2035. In recent years, Mexico and Colombia have joined forces in creating a flourishing
imperialist economy planted firmly in controlling the trillion-dollar global narcotics industry. The
United States of America has fared considerably worse, but nevertheless, the American government
is eager to destroy the narco-states before they can wreak further havoc on their nation, among
others. Now, as Mexico begins to encroach on American ally Costa Rica, the time may well have
come for tensions to come to a head. Though the fate of the conflict is far from foreseeable, one
thing is certain: the delegates’ next moves will shape the Americas for years to come, for better or
for worse.
The crisis topic and its associated background guide were originally prepared by Julian Miller for the Joint Crisis
Committees at VMUN 2017.
acc Advanced Crisis Committee: Catalan Independence Referendum, 2017
Director Mikael Borres Chair Ethan Lee Crisis Staff Joyce Ke
June 10, 2017 marks the beginning of a consequential campaign that will determine the future of
Catalonia. In months’ time, the citizens of Catalonia will decide, through a referendum, whether
to become an independent state in the form of a republic or remain in the Kingdom of Spain. The
path to independence will be anything but effortless, as the independence movement is met with
strong opposition from the Government of Spain. Delegates of the Advanced Crisis Committee
(ACC) will serve as the Executive Council of Catalonia to lead the way to independence and build
a European nation fit for the 21st century. A committee of controversy, tension and tribulation, the
ACC is a unique opportunity to challenge the most experienced delegates.
A special thanks to our Flex Staff: Marcus Lai and Daniel Aminbakhsh.
18
18committees programme / rules of procedure
Rules of Procedure: General Rules
rule 1: scope & application
These rules of procedure are applicable to all committees except the House of Commons, and the Continuous
Crisis Committees (JCC, HCC, FCC, and ACC) at Vancouver Model United Nations 2021, during all scheduled
and extraordinary sessions. No other rules of procedure apply.
These rules may be adapted by the Committee Staff to more accurately reflect the actual procedures of the body
being simulated.
rule 2: delegate conduct
Delegates shall be courteous and respectful to all staff and delegates. The Chair will immediately call to order
delegates who do not abide by this rule. Delegates who feel that they are not being treated respectfully are
encouraged to discuss their concerns with their Director or a member of the Secretariat.
English will be the official and only working language of the conference. Delegate may not use affected accents
during committee. National costumes are not permitted; delegates must wear Western business attire during
all committee sessions.
Delegates are expected to be present at the beginning of every scheduled committee session, at which point roll
call will be taken. Delegates who will not be present for part or all of a committee session should inform their
Committee Staff verbally or by email prior to any such absence.
rule 3: electronic aids
Delegates will be required to use a computer with a functional webcam and microphone to access the online
platform. Internet resources, such as Google Docs, are permitted to aid in research, the composition of
working papers, and draft resolutions; prior to the conference, delegates should ensure they have access to
these platforms if they wish to use them during committee sessions. Delegates are highly encouraged to limit
their use of Internet and electronic devices to the specified substantive and academic purposes during the
conference.
19vmun 2020 delegate handbook
sponsors
Silver Sponsors
20You can also read
