UCBMUN 2025

Topics

1. Topic A: Combatting Gender-Based Harassment in the Workplace
2. Topic B: Addressing Human Trafficking of Women and Girls

About the committee

(Note: This is a double-delegate General Assembly.) Gender inequality remains pervasive, affecting organizations worldwide, from modern workplaces such as corporate offices and factories to the hospitality industry and informal economies. This issue stems from the systemic undervaluation of one gender’s contributions, leading to disparities in pay, opportunity, and treatment. Gender inequality is often perpetuated by societal norms and insufficient enforcement of human rights, which fosters a security dilemma around gender roles. Additionally, sector leaders sometimes exploit these biases to maintain their power — exacerbating disparities and hindering progress. Such inequality challenges global development, leading to economic inefficiency and societal unrest. Despite these challenges, international responses often lack coordination and effective enforcement of gender equity and fair labor standards. The International Labor Organization (ILO) aims to develop global strategies to tackle gender inequality when it comes to labor. Key questions include: What frameworks should the ILO adopt to enforce women’s rights and gender equity? How should governments ensure compliance with international standards? How can the international community respect cultural diversity while addressing gender-based injustices?

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Topics

1. Topic A: Vaccine Equity and Diplomacy
2. Topic B: Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance

About the committee

The World Health Organization is a specialized body of the United Nations tasked with promoting global health and safety. Over the years, the WHO has pioneered numerous global health efforts from smallpox eradication to providing medical assistance during natural disasters. The World Health Organization committee at UCBMUN will prompt delegates to explore both legislative and technological solutions to ensure that they solve the major problems plaguing our world today. Topic A will address promoting vaccine accessibility and distribution process globally, focusing on the global impact of vaccine equity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine inequities were visible, where vaccine nationalism, misinformation, intellectual property rights, and constraints in development prevented high and low-income individuals from being vaccinated equally, throughout and past the pandemic. Without key global sharing of vaccine doses and technologies, vaccine monopolies overtook the market, causing several pitfalls for vaccination access in third-world countries. Delegates will be asked to consider policies to balance development and innovation with ethical considerations for vaccine accessibility. Topic B prompts delegates to tackle the ever-increasing arms race against rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Around the world, diverse microbes ranging from bacteria to viruses to fungi are finding new ways to evade even some of our most long-established defenses. This war plays out not only in medical settings like hospitals but also even in farms - in fact, a quarter of all antibiotics in the US are used in pig farming alone, which is a huge driver of AMR! Delegates must consider the diverse contexts and applications of antimicrobials, and how to ensure that we are victorious in this perpetual arms race of mother nature. Photo Source: https://spherestandards.org/organizer/world-health-organization-who/

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About the committee

Welcome to Les Excellentes Cuisines du Monde, a global organization composed of the finest chefs and culinary talent from across the planet. The menu for this weekend will feature the relevancy of the Michelin Guide. Our starter will be celebrity chef culture as a whole, and if it is healthy to the industry. Controversy of the Michelin Guide will compose the entree, and will be sure to not leave anyone hungry. And finally, for dessert, a question that only the finest in the industry can answer: what defines fine dining? Get your palates ready chefs for a weekend full of flavor and flair as we take a deep dive into the culinary world. Bon appétit! Image Source: Claes Bech-Poulsen

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About the committee

Welcome to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA Hollywood Strike Committee! As digital media revolutionizes the entertainment industry, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and major studios find themselves at a crossroads. Central to their negotiations are issues including fair compensation, the treatment and security of gig economy workers, enhanced residuals for streaming content, and protection against new industry practices, such as the use of AI in performances. The 2023 strike represents the broader struggles within the creative industry adapting to technological disruption. It raises questions about the sustainability of current business models, the fair distribution of profits generated from digital platforms, and the rights of creatives in an increasingly fragmented market. In this committee, you will assume the roles of contemporary actors, studio executives, union leaders, and other key industry players navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by streaming services, digital media, and consumer viewing habits tasked with drafting a new contract that addresses the union members' demands. Prepare to influence the future of Hollywood. Will you advocate for drastic reforms to adapt to the new digital reality, or will you champion a more conservative approach that prioritizes stability in the industry? Will you redefine how the industry compensates its talent in the digital era, or will the old guard maintain its grip? The decisions made here could either lead to a groundbreaking agreement that shapes the future of entertainment or a stalemate with severe implications. The stage is set for a negotiation in the 2023 SAG-AFTRA Hollywood Strike Committee. Image Source: https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/hollywood-actors-strike-ends-sag-deal-1235467188/

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Topic

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About the committee

The Ad–Hoc General Assembly of the Director–General is a premier committee of high–caliber debate at UCBMUN XXIX. The committee's topic itself will remain hidden and will be announced shortly before the conference begins!

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About the committee

Shortly after becoming king of the mighty Macedonian Empire at age 20, Alexander the Great set out to conquer the Achaemenid Perisan Empire. He launched a series of military campaigns, taking over territories such as Asia Minor and Egypt before finally overthrowing Darius III, the last Achaemenid king. Wanting to continue spreading Hellenistic influence, Alexander continued eastward with his sights set on India. The year is 327 BCE, and India must prepare to counter Alexander’s impending invasion or risk losing critical territory, resources, and power. However, India is far from unified, instead splintered into several smaller states that often clash with one another. As a war cabinet composed of representatives from each of these conflicting Indian states, you must develop effective military strategy to counter Alexander the Great’s seasoned military tactics or risk India becoming another conquested land. This entails developing clever battle plans, leveraging the region’s unique resources, and adapting to the rapidly changing nature of war. Will you overcome your political infighting and come together to fight a common enemy? Or will you succumb to internal divisions and prioritize personal power over the greater good? Tread carefully- the future of India is at risk. Image Source: Le Brun, Charles. (1673). Alexander and Porus. The Louvre, Paris, France.

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The year is 2003, and a Stanford University dropout by the name of Elizabeth Holmes has just founded the company Real-Time Cures. In hopes to ‘democratize healthcare,’ the fledgling startup sought to extract tiny quantities of blood to perform a myriad of tests on. This was, of course, spurred by Holmes’ petrifying fear of needles. While Holmes’ idea was notably rejected by her Professor, Phyllis Gardner, she succeeded in recruiting Channing Robertson — dean of the School of Engineering — to become the company’s first board member. The change to the now-notorious ‘Theranos’ came shortly after Robertson’s appointment, alongside her first introduction to the world of venture capitalism in the valley. Flash forward to 2004, where Holmes secured $6 million in funding. This number was quickly expanded to $92 million by the end of 2010. Alongside Theranos’ climb to unicorn status, Holmes continued to recruit an all-star lineup to join Robertson that included the likes of past Secretaries of State and Senators. As you convene as the newly founded Theranos Board of Directors, the clock starts in 2013: Theranos has just launched its first partnership with Walgreens. Delegates will be tasked with overseeing the company throughout its collaborations and creations — such as the Edison, Nanotainer and MiniLab. The outcome of your deliberations and decisions will leave an indelible mark on the biotech industry, and undoubtedly set precedent for the intersection of technology and medicine. Most importantly, delegates will be tasked with ensuring that a sense of accountability is maintained across the company — including that of the CEO. Will you ask necessary questions about research results? Will you demand a tour of the laboratory facilities? Will you comply with governmental organizations eager to sneak a peek? Plagued by scandal, marred by malfeasance, it is your responsibility to route the turbulent waters of Silicon Valley’s unicorn era. Image Source: https://www.digitaltrends.com/cool-tech/theranos-minilab/

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About the committee

Fiery ideals from the European 1830 Revolutions have made their way to the enormous Empire of Brazil, throwing the country into widespread civil unrest! Exhausted by the chaos, Emperor Pedro I shocks the kingdom and decides to abdicate his throne, setting sail for Europe immediately--and placing Pedro II, his five-year-old son, on the throne. As the mini-monarch is far too young to shoulder the burden of the royal crown, the senators form a provisional regency to govern Brazil. The regents and other court advisors of this period--the Brazilian Regency Era--aim to maintain a stable government until the preteen prince comes of age. Threats to the kingdom lie at every step, however. Religious and ethnic tensions within its diverse lands (especially between Brazilian and Portuguese nationals) cause frequent clashes that must be addressed. At the same time, ideological political differences between liberal, conservative, military, and monarchist factions cause power grabs for ultimate control of both the Regency and its adolescent heir. Neighboring kingdoms announce aggressive territorial claims over disputed Brazilian lands, pushing the country closer to war. Finally, public clamor for greater economic and democratic representation manifests in rebellions and calls for complete reconstruction of the monarchy. This committee begins in the early days of the Regency Era, where delegates step into the shoes of Brazil's most prominent governmental and cultural figures of the time. Can you negotiate your way through political, economic, and social turmoil while taking care of Pedro II and his country? Will you usher in Brazil's golden era of inspiration and reform or drag in a dark age of internal strife and chaos? The fate of one preschooler potentate--and one massive South American empire--is in your hands. Image Source: Arnaud Pallière

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It is the summer of 1986 in Hawkins, Indiana. The once-small town known for its simplistic charm and quiet suburban life is quickly overshadowed by a string of eerie and supernatural events that continue to plague those living within Hawkins. Recently, residents have begun reporting instances of strange behavior seen within members of their community. When interviewing the reported cases, the affected victims have described themselves as going through intense as well disturbing hallucinations, which many have stated they felt as if they were re-living their darkest fears. This odd ""disease"" appears to be fatal as well, as there has been a growing correlation between the reported victims and the disfigured bodies found throughout this once heartwarming little town. In light of these harrowing events, it is your responsibility as a board member of the Hawkins City Council to act swiftly and decisively when addressing the concerns of the ongoing situation. With your position, you have an obligation to figure out who is behind these attacks while also uncovering the secrets within Hawkins. Although it may be argued secrets such as these should never be revealed. As a board member, you must work with the rest of the council to figure out the best way to utilize and split current resources, how to balance collaboration with law enforcement agents while maintaining transparency, what actions should be taken to ensure mass hysteria or fear-mongering doesn't fall upon the citizens, and much more. Delegates must work together as a unified council to navigate between the physical impacts of the supernatural and the selfish actions of mankind. The actions a delegate takes within this committee have the influence of a constant ripple effect. One wrong move as a committee may lead to the press judging the Hawkins City Council's legitimacy or even have consequences that threaten to unravel the very fabric of reality. With the rise in fatalities, time is of the essence. Will the council act fast enough to uncover the root cause of these supernatural occurrences? Or will members put their trust in those with bloodied hands? The residents of Hawkins look to you to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. It is your duty to take command. Image Source: Netflix, Stranger Things

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Buongiorno Delegates! As dawn breaks over the Sicilian hills, the shadows of Palermo stir with whispers of power, betrayal, and ambition. You, the esteemed members of Cosa Nostra’s inner circle, are here to navigate the treacherous waters of crime, loyalty, and influence. The year is 1865, a time of shifting power within the mafia. In this world, every glance holds a secret, every handshake seals a deal, and every smile hides a dagger. Your decisions will shape the future of the mafia empire, and nothing is as it seems. Expect a journey filled with clandestine meetings, high-stakes negotiations, and unexpected twists. Just when you think you’ve secured your position, an unforeseen turn will challenge your wit and resolve. In the shadows, power struggles brew, and reputations are always at stake. The law enforcement’s grip tightens, and amidst this chaos, only the cunning will survive. Every move must be meticulously planned, every word carefully chosen. The consequences are as unpredictable as they are severe. Let us embark on this extraordinary journey together, where the stakes are high and the outcomes uncertain. A Presto! Each participant will assume the role of a high-ranking mafia member, each with their own ambitions, loyalties, and secrets. The committee is tasked with reestablishing control, managing alliances, and securing the mafia’s future. Key decisions must be made about whether to escalate the conflict, seek peace with rivals, or forge new alliances with international criminal networks. As government forces close in and public opinion sways, every move could mean the difference between maintaining the empire or seeing it crumble. Image Source: Pinterest

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About the committee

In the year 1120, the sinking of the White Ship off the Normandy coast marked a pivotal turning point in English history. On board was William Adelin, the sole legitimate son and heir of King Henry I of England. Tragically, the vessel struck a submerged rock shortly after departing from Barfleur, causing it to sink. Despite rescue efforts, including attempts to save the heir to the throne, most passengers perished in the icy waters of the English Channel. The death of William Adelin disrupted the English succession. With no apparent heir and lacking a strong male heir, King Henry I sought to secure the throne for his daughter Matilda. However, his passing in 1135 triggered a bitter civil war known as The Anarchy. This conflict saw Matilda contend against her cousin Stephen of Blois, who claimed the throne with the backing of numerous nobles. The Anarchy, lasting from 1135 to 1153, plunged England into a period of political instability, lawlessness, and feudal warfare. It was characterized by shifting allegiances, brutal sieges, and devastation across the realm as both sides vied for control. The sinking of the White Ship and the subsequent Anarchy had profound implications for English governance and succession practices, influencing royal politics for generations to come. As a collection of prominent English political hopefuls, advisors, and allies from all sides, you are responsible for navigating this succession crisis to secure the throne. To do so, you must balance a desire for personal power with the security of the empire, as carrying on with political infighting for too long could leave the British Empire vulnerable to outside threats. Whether you decide to support Matilda, Stephen, or an unknown entity in their quest for the monarchy, you will need to act with both diplomacy and cunning as you forge alliances, negotiate power, and navigate the complex political and social climate of the time. Image Source: Kronheim, Joseph. “The White Ship.” The Oldie, 8 June 2021, https://www.theoldie.co.uk/blog/the-900th-anniversary-of-the-worst-ever-royal-disaster. Accessed 16 June 2024.

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"BRAINZ!" (Translation: Greetings, delegates! It has been 2 months since a viral pathogen has spread across the planet, one that turns the infected into our kind--glorious zombies! Many nations have fallen; even The United States of America is in the midst of a ruthless civil war, spurred on by the chaos and destruction brought forth by our destruction. The United Nations and NATO have officially declared war on the zombies, and are trying to remove us while the World Health Organization researches a cure to the zombie pathogen.) "BRAINZZ!" (The State of California has broken away from the United States, and has formed a new nation: The Civic Republic of California, or CRC. The stubborn Californian leadership is holed up in San Francisco, desparately attempting to garner UN support before our unstoppable leadership, takes over! We must act fast, however; the US Federal Government's Scorched-Earth approach to stamp us out threatens both San Franciscans and Zombies alike.) "BRAINZZZ!" (Can your zombie characters help the horde invade San Francisco--the last bastion of California's defenses--before the merciless U.S. army cuts them down? Only you can decide; whether you're an undead actor, shambling scientist, or brain-hungry brigadier, it'll take all of our zombified blood, sweat, and tears to claim the city by the Bay as ours.) Note: Both Brainz over Brawn Committees are Joint Crisis Committees (JCCs). JCCs operate as normal crisis committees, but actions made in one committee will directly affect updates in the other!

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About the committee

It has been 2 months since a viral pathogen has ravaged the planet--one that turns the infected into shambling zombies! Many nations have fallen; even The United States of America is in the midst of a ruthless civil war, which was spurred on by the chaos and destruction brought forth by the zombies. The United Nations and NATO have officially declared war on the zombies, and are doing their best to combat the growing threat. Furthermore, The World Health Organization is close to finding a cure to the zombie pathogen--hope still prevails within the darkness. The State of California has broken away from the United States, and has formed a new nation: The Civic Republic of California (CRC). Current California leadership is stationed in San Francisco, which has been rendered as a designated safe-zone. The CRC is attempting it's best to to gather international support from the United Nations, along with other secessionist states. Their main enemy besides the zombies, is the US Federal Government (Federal Forces), whose drastic measures to eliminate the zombies at the start of the outbreak caused the state secessions to begin. Violence and lawlessness are prevailing in the world, despite the best efforts of the UN and the CRC. The Federal Forces are in the process of stamping out the secessionist movement's governments--including the one of the CRC cabinet. Additionally, rumors have been heard of advanced zombie attacks--suggesting a level of sapience amongst the shambling zombie herds. These attacks have been accompanied with strange reports of highly advanced military units, which allegedly have been seen being commanded by zombies... The CRC is spread too thin: they cannot fight two fronts against the Federal Forces and this new intelligent zombie threat--a threat which can be camouflaged anywhere, among the never-ending zombie herds... can you defend SF and gain international recognition before succumbing to the horde? Only you can decide. Note: Both Brainz over Brawn Committees are Joint Crisis Committees (JCCs). JCCs operate as normal crisis committees, but actions made in one committee will directly affect updates in the other!

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(Note: This is a double-delegate UNSC committee. At UCBMUN, UNSC committees contain both Crisis and GA sessions.) The year is 2013. The Gulf of Guinea is at the epicenter of a maritime crisis, plagued by rampant piracy threatening international trade and regional stability. Everyone is involved, from government officials and businesspeople to militias and the mafia! Petro-piracy, in particular, is emerging as a major issue, siphoning off vast quantities of oil and exacerbating the crisis. As regional leaders and key stakeholders, you must navigate these treacherous waters and devise a comprehensive strategy to combat this escalating issue. The stakes are high: can you stay afloat amidst the stormy seas of regional politics, balance the tidal wave of economic interests, and foster international cooperation to secure the waters? Your decisions will determine the future of maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. Will you rise to the challenge and lead the region into an era of smooth sailing and prosperity, or will your efforts be sunk by this monumental task? Image Source: U.S. NAVY. (2013, February 27). The Cameroonian fast intervention brigade conducts anti-piracy training during exercise Obangame Express 2013. Picryl. https://picryl.com/media/the-cameroonian-fast-intervention-brigade-conducts-anti-piracy-training-during-29bb4d Accessed 18 June 2024.

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About the committee

"It's a great huge game of chess that's being played—all over the world—if this is the world at all, you know." The Ad–Hoc of the Secretary–General is a premier Crisis committee of high–caliber debate at UCBMUN XXIX. The committee's topic itself will remain hidden and will be announced shortly before the conference begins!

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