UTMUN 2025

About the committee

For better or for worse, artificial intelligence (AI) has undoubtedly become a transformative force on the global stage. UN SAMOSA aims to serve as a forum for discussion on the impact AI has had on educational and workplace structures across the world. Specifically, Topic 1 will centre around the stake AI has had in shifting global education within the contexts of personalised learning, the roles of teachers, curriculum design and content delivery, as well as assessment and evaluation methods. The focus of Topic 2 on AI’s impact on workplace shifts will touch on AI’s implication in removing certain industries, its potential threat to workplace safety, marginalising economically advantaged populations with limited digital capabilities, and harming the environment.

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About the committee

International borders are simply boundaries separating nations from one another – right? Wrong. Their existence alone has been a tremendous source of international disagreement, and subsequent conflict has had intense repercussions on the people groups caught in the midst of these disputes. Topic 1 will address this particular issue – through discourse on improving oversight, coordinating humanitarian and economic relief, and supplementing intra and inter-regional relationships to safeguard these vulnerable communities. Moreover, borders have been a focal point for migrants trying to flee their home countries. Human rights violations committed against migrants at international border crossings embodies the premise of Topic 2. Debate will centre around enhancing legal protections, humanitarian aid and mental health resource access, long-term resettlement programs, and international and regional cooperation in providing support for these migrants. Ultimately, UN Borders aims to be a vital force in the exploration of the intersectionality between humanitarianism and national borders.

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About the committee

Every year post Covid-19, more and more people have been packing their bags, booking plane tickets, and exploring the world around them. But how does global tourism operate at its core, and is the world able to keep up with the industry’s rapid growth? UN Tourism gives delegates the opportunity to have a ring-side seat into the inner functions of this industry, by crafting an international tourism framework that prioritises economic preparedness, security, and ethics. Topic 1 will focus on the economic and security-oriented fronts, through discussion on sustainable tourism in the face of augmented travelling, and measures to resist fraud, terrorism, gender-based crime, among other public safety threats. On the other hand, Topic 2’s ethics focus will relate to how the proliferation of tourism has led to a lack of regard for animal welfare, environmental concerns, economically disadvantaged communities, and Indigenous groups.

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About the committee

Do you have a knack for swift, time-sensitive problem-solving? The UN Central Emergency Response Fund presents delegates with global issues that require immediate response mechanisms, and a forum for delegates to tackle these problems like champs! Topic 1 will focus on natural disasters, with subtopics including strengthening early warning signs, improving disaster response logistics and relief equity, and prevention strategies, through the creation of resilient infrastructure and incorporation of climate change adaptation into disaster management. On the other side of the spectrum, Topic 2 will focus on pandemic response. Through discussion on Covid-19, among other pandemics throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, delegates will discuss vaccine distribution inequity, the formulation of pandemic response mechanisms when causes are ambiguous, relationships with other medicine-focused international organisations to streamline aid, and use previous pandemics as mechanisms to inform future response-building.

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About the committee

Article 2 of the UN Charter requires member states to respect the sovereignty of other members – but in practice, does this principle genuinely hold? UN GAMES is built upon the premise of investigating threats to this foundational idea encoded within international law, by analysing the current intertwined forms of militaristic and economic dominance and coercion from one country to another. Topic 1 will focus on the militaristic side of this phenomenon – through discussion on disarmament, the geopolitical intentions of military buildup and occupation, and the delicate boundary between necessitating military force for national protection and aggressive behaviour. On the economic front, the committee will discuss debt-trap diplomacy, transparency in international financial agreements, regulation of foreign direct investments, exploitation of natural resources through unfair trade practices, and strengthening international trade agreements to prevent economic coercion.

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About the committee

Thankfully, our world has not seen the usage of nuclear weapons since the close of World War II, and nuclear non-proliferation agreements have been enacted thereafter. But in no way does that mean that our globe is free from the danger atomic energy poses. UN IAEA explores how safe and peaceful uses of atomic energy can be employed to ensure global security. Topic 1 delves into ways nuclear safety and security can be promoted, through discussion on strengthening safety standards and regulations, safeguarding nuclear materials, enhancing emergency preparedness and response mechanisms, conducting peer reviews and safety assessments, and promoting transparency and public communication on nuclear safety issues. Topic 2 focuses on developing more peaceful applications of nuclear technology – including nuclear medicine and radiotherapy, agricultural and food security, water resource management, sustainable power generation, and research and innovation.

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About the committee

The ICPD is a landmark event that took place in Cairo, Egypt in 1994 which will give delegates a forum for multifaceted humanitarian discourse. Specifically, debate will revolve around female empowerment and gender equality, as well as urban reform, within the contexts of fertility, migration, and sustainability. Topic 1 will revolve around eliminating gender discrimination, enhancing educational and employment opportunities for women, supporting female political participation and leadership, as well as legal reforms to protect women’s rights. On the other hand, Topic 2, with its urban reform focus, will delve into development and population dynamics, poverty reduction, migration and urbanisation challenges, environmental sustainability and population growth, and strengthening data collection and research for informed policymaking.

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About the committee

Since its inception in 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has stood as a pillar of global defense and security, evolving to meet the demands of a constantly shifting geopolitical landscape. In Invisible Wars, delegates will delve into the forefront of cognitive warfare, where the battleground is the mind, and the weapons are information and influence. Explore the sophisticated tactics of weaponizing social media, employing neurotechnology in defense, manipulating public perception, and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence. But the threats don't stop there. You will also confront the harrowing reality of bioterrorism, examining the dangers of genetically engineered pathogens and the critical importance of intelligence sharing to bolster global bioterrorism preparedness. As a delegate, you will immerse yourself in high-stakes discussions, propose groundbreaking solutions, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of NATO's defense strategies. Are you prepared to confront these invisible enemies and defend the alliance from the shadows?

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As the Iron Curtain Falls: Collapse of the Soviet Union, 1991 Amidst the final throes of the Cold War, the world stands at a crossroads. The ideological struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union has defined global politics for decades, shaping alliances, conflicts, and the very fabric of international relations. Now, in 1991, the Soviet Union is disintegrating, and its collapse is poised to fundamentally alter the global power structure. Join us in this committee as we navigate the immediate aftermath of this seismic event. Explore the rise of new regional powers, address security challenges and peacekeeping in the post-Soviet space, and tackle the urgent task of nuclear disarmament. As delegates, you'll redefine diplomatic alignments, and confront the threats of global terrorism fueled by newly created power vacuums. You will further delve into the economic reconstruction of former Soviet states, from currency stabilization to foreign direct investment and the influence of oligarchs. With the future of international organizations and global energy markets at stake, your decisions will shape the path forward. Are you ready to steer the world through the end of an era and into a new global order? Note: This committee will have low to medium intensity crisis elements.

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About the committee

United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) In a world where every click, message, and movement is tracked, the line between security and personal freedom has never been thinner. Welcome to Who Watches the Watchers, a United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) committee where you will tackle the most urgent and contentious issues of our digital age. Topic 1 invites you to delve into the heart of modern privacy concerns. Engage in fierce debates on digital espionage against civil society, the rise of the surveillance state, and the balance between corporate surveillance and consumer rights. Protect freedom of expression against internet filtering, scrutinize the privacy implications of popular applications, and address how surveillance disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations. Topic 2 challenges you to scrutinize the powerful entities that operate in the shadows. While intelligence agencies provide crucial information for government decision-making, their secretive operations often lack oversight, raising concerns about unchecked power and potential abuses. Debate the role of technology companies in intelligence gathering and the human rights violations that can ensue. Discuss the ethical implications of whistleblowers like Edward Snowden, the democratic accountability of covert operations, and the evolving future of intelligence in the digital age. This committee is your chance to shape the policies that will define privacy and surveillance for years to come.

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About the committee

For centuries, the Arab world has been at the epicenter of global power struggles, with foreign intervention shaping its political and economic landscapes. From colonial oil interests carving up territories to modern-day military bases asserting influence, the region’s rich oil reserves have made it a focal point of global competition. As a delegate in the League of Arab States (LAS) committee, you will delve into these historical legacies and their enduring impacts. Engage in debates on how colonial interests, foreign military bases, and covert operations have dictated the political and economic trajectory of the region. You'll also explore the humanitarian impact of oil-driven conflicts and the economic dependency of Arab states on oil revenue, offering you a deep dive into the geopolitical complexities that continue to shape the Middle East. Beyond the politics of oil, you will tackle the future of unity and prosperity in the Arab world. Engage in thought-provoking discussions about the media portrayal of the Arab world, cultural imperialism, and the preservation of Arab identity. Examine the progress and prospects of women's roles in Arab societies and explore strategies for economic diversification beyond oil dependency. By debating these vital topics, you will have the opportunity to propose innovative pathways to regional cooperation, integration, and progress. How will you address the intertwined legacies of colonialism and foreign intervention to redefine the Arab world’s trajectory?

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About the committee

Step into the chambers of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and become a pivotal player in resolving some of the most critical international disputes of our time. In Sanctions, Sovereignty, and the South-China Sea, you will navigate the intricate and high-stakes world of international law, representing judges, witnesses, prosecutors, and state representatives. In the first case, Islamic Republic of Iran v. United States (2018), you will debate the reimposition of sanctions by the US after its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). This case challenges the balance of national sovereignty against international agreements, with profound implications for global economic stability and trade relations. You will dissect the legality of sanctions, explore the principles of non-interference and economic warfare, and debate the role of international adjudication in resolving such complex disputes. The second case, Philippines v. China (2013), brings to the fore the intense territorial dispute over the South China Sea. As delegates, you will grapple with the legal interpretations of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and examine the geopolitical tensions between rising powers and smaller states asserting their maritime rights. Discussions will delve into the economic implications for trade and resource exploitation, as well as the broader geopolitical ramifications of China's actions in the region. How will you leverage your understanding of international law to influence the ICJ’s decisions on sanctions and territorial disputes?

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Welcome to the world of international finance at The World Bank! In our first topic, Debt-Trap Diplomacy and Conditionality Agreements, you will debate the controversial strategies shaping developing economies. Dive into discussions on how conditionality agreements can exacerbate inequality and push for privatization, leading to the erosion of public services and loss of national sovereignty. Engage in debates about the pros and cons of foreign direct investment and examine the continued relevance of the Bretton Woods system in today’s economic environment. You'll dissect these pressing issues and propose innovative solutions that could redefine global lending practices. Our second topic, The Economics of Conflict, invites you to explore the intersection of economic strategies and warfare. You will analyze the tactics of economic warfare and cyber conflict, debating the weaponization of trade through blockades and embargoes, and the role of informal financial networks in sustaining conflicts. Discuss the impact of sanctions on conflict economies and scrutinize the involvement of multinational corporations in conflict zones. You will examine how these economic factors drive and sustain conflicts, and propose strategic reforms to promote peace and development. How will you use your understanding of international finance to navigate these complex debates and influence the future of global economic policies?

Countries

About the committee

Welcome to the Arctic Council, where the melting ice caps are not just a harbinger of climate change but a gateway to a new era of exploration, opportunity, and conflict. The Arctic, once a frozen frontier, is now a hotspot for nations vying to stake their claims on vast, untapped resources—believed to contain around 30% of the world's undiscovered gas and 13% of its undiscovered oil. As delegates, you will navigate the intricate web of territorial claims, sovereignty issues, and governance challenges. Dive into heated debates over indigenous rights and their critical role in shaping Arctic sovereignty. Analyze the legal frameworks that determine Arctic claims and grapple with the profound question: Should the Arctic be treated as res nullius (belonging to no one) or as the shared heritage of all humanity? Your mission will extend beyond territorial disputes. Engage in the exploration of the Arctic's future in international trade and global supply chains. Delve into the environmental and social impacts of the Arctic ice melt, from disrupting local communities to discovering subglacial ecosystems and unknown species. Uncover the implications of new Arctic waterways for global commerce and security. The Arctic Council committee will challenge you to consider the economic opportunities and the environmental risks of this rapidly changing region. Will you rise to the challenge and steer the course through this uncharted territory?

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About the committee

In January 2021, Reddit’s “r/wallstreetbets” catalyzed a short-squeeze on GameStop’s stock, significantly impacting major Wall Street players and hedge funds. Despite GameStop’s financial decline in previous years, the sudden surge in its stock price stunned industry insiders. This committee explores GameStop’s Board of Directors and hedge-fund executives’ responses to the crisis precipitated by the Reddit community and a YouTuber. Beyond GameStop’s immediate situation, the committee delves into the broader repercussions of this unprecedented event on the stock market. It investigates how social media platforms, like Reddit, can wield unexpected influence on financial markets, challenging conventional wisdom. Additionally, the committee examines regulatory responses, such as those from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and scrutinizes the actions of trading platforms like Robinhood (amidst others), which controversially restricted trading during the peak of the squeeze. This comprehensive exploration aims to illuminate the intricate balance between market freedom and regulatory oversight in modern finance. By analyzing the evolving dynamics of market participation, the committee seeks to provide valuable insights that can inform future policy decisions. Ultimately, the committee’s findings could shape regulatory frameworks aimed at preventing market manipulation while preserving the democratic nature of market engagement, ensuring a fair and transparent financial landscape for all participants. The delegates in the GameStop room have a chance to revive the company, amidst the chaos. The Wall Street Executives however, are losing money with their predictions. Each committee room’s actions, naturally, will have consequences on the other – but there will only be one room, which profits at the end.

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About the committee

The WNBA grapples with discussions on the imbalance in viewership compared to men’s sports, notably the NBA. This difference impacts not only player salaries but also recognition. The Board of Directors convenes to address these challenges and mirror the NBA’s success. Strategic decisions and effective solutions from the Board are crucial for the league’s trajectory. Enhanced visibility through increased marketing and promotions is vital, along with partnerships with major brands for sponsorships and engaging social media content. Collaborations with the NBA for joint campaigns elevate the WNBA’s status. Improving the fan experience and investing in grassroots programs are also key for growth and sustainability. The Board must innovate and adapt to changing trends in sports consumption, leveraging digital platforms and emerging technologies to engage fans and attract new audiences. You must also advocate for greater media coverage and representation, challenging societal norms and biases that undermine the value of women’s sports. The Board’s decisions steer the league towards greater recognition, financial stability, and parity with men’s sports. You aim to cultivate enduring support and interest in women’s basketball while ensuring fairness and equity. By aligning with the NBA’s success, the WNBA strives to bridge the gap in viewership and elevate the profile of women’s sports on a broader scale, enhancing opportunities for players and advancing the sport as a whole – and get nothin’ but net.

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Regarded as the biggest scandal in F1 history, the 2007 ‘Spygate’ scandal involving Ferrari, McLaren and to a slightly lesser degree, Renault enforced a rethinking of sporting politics. The scandal involved Nigel Stepney, a chief mechanic and technician of Ferrari leaking details of their car to individuals at McLaren and Renault. Delegates will begin the committee discussing engineering the car which you think will win them the 2007 F1 championship, dedicated towards revering Ferrari’s legacy. The delegates will also focus on the significant impact the scandal had on Ferrari’s esteemed reputation. You must navigate the crisis by addressing both the technical aspects of car engineering and the broader implications for the team’s legacy. This includes examining the damage to Ferrari’s image as a paragon of excellence and integrity in motorsport. Strategies will be formulated to restore trust among fans, sponsors, and the broader F1 community. The committee will explore public relations campaigns, potential legal actions, and internal policy changes to prevent future breaches. By concentrating on these multifaceted efforts, delegates aim to reinforce Ferrari’s standing in the sport and ensure that the legacy of innovation and success continues, despite the setbacks caused by the scandal. It’s your job to now drive Ferrari’s chances of success.

Countries

About the committee

Facebook (now Meta) until recently, was considered the most used social-media platform across the world. Despite the proliferation of social-media apps such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, the usage of Facebook/Meta has waned. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most revolutionary platforms, reshaping our technological landscape. The substantial financial gains for Mark Zuckerberg are undeniable. In this committee, Harvard delegates, not yet Facebook creators, will collaboratively pioneer what could be one of the most successful and dynamic social media platforms globally. Set in 2004, the committee’s focus is on crafting what will evolve into Facebook. Harvard students, cognizant of social networking’s transformative power, will innovate a platform redefining online connection. Drawing inspiration from platforms like Friendster and Myspace, you’ll brainstorm features prioritising user experience, privacy, and scalability. Discussions on interface design, functionality, and requisite technology will ensue. Your efforts lay the foundation for one of the internet’s most influential and pervasive platforms.

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About the committee

In January 2002, Hershey faced financial struggles while Wrigley dominated the chewing gum market. Rumours swirl about Wrigley’s interest in buying Hershey, potentially monopolising the chocolate market. Delegates anticipate Wrigley’s offer, planning their response. Wrigley aims to expand its market share and persuade Hershey to accept the acquisition. Conversely, Hershey seeks to bolster sales and possibly counter Wrigley’s offer by acquiring Wrigley itself. Beyond economic concerns, health issues related to chocolate overconsumption, innovation in chocolate and candy products, effective marketing strategies, and environmental sustainability in cocoa farming pose significant challenges. As the committee delves into the chocolate market’s complexities, you encounter multifaceted challenges extending beyond Hershey and Wrigley’s competition. Health concerns require innovative product development and moderation promotion. Continuous innovation is crucial to meet evolving consumer preferences. Effective marketing is vital for brand differentiation and consumer engagement. Sustainable cocoa farming practices are essential to mitigate environmental impact. The committee’s discussions will centre on these pressing issues, demanding strategic foresight and collaborative efforts to navigate the turbulent chocolate market. It won’t be easy, but a victory for either side would be sweet.

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Hungary has been part of the Austrian empire since the Hapsburgs pushed out the Ottomans. However, the proud and idealistic Hungarians have wanted greater independence for decades. In 1848 Hungarians staged a revolution against the Habsburgs with the hope of further democratic freedoms. While things started out with peaceful reforms it ended with a violent conflict and a Hapsburg invasion. The Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria ascended to the Hapsburg throne following this chaos and with his military background and political ambition made his resentment towards the Hungarian nobility known. Now both parties have been brought to the table by a mix of economic and political necessity. Austria no longer has the military power or economic strength to preserve the military dictatorship of its empire, but it cannot risk losing valuable territory. The Hungarians are vying for the reinstatement of the pre 1848 reforms and greater political autonomy. Behind the scenes the influential empress Sisi has begun pushing her husband to hear the Hungarians' requests. The initial negotiations were fraught with difficulty even dissolving at one point but now they are in the final stretches. Both sides struggle to admit they need something from the other but can they find their way to a compromise before one of them collapses?

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In the 1650s emperor Aurangzeb defeated his brothers in a struggle for the Mughal throne. With three brothers to contend with he used every political and military connection at his disposal to cement his power and he got exactly what he wanted. Now upon his own death in 1707 he has prompted his sons to carry on the tradition by leaving the line of succession decidedly vague. Initially all three sons, the Princes Muzzam, Azam Shah, and Kam Bakhsh, were in contention but Muzzam faced Azam Shah at the Battle ofJajau and Azam Shah along with his forces were defeated in a single day. While his brothers were distracted Kam Bakhsh moved his forces to Bijapur and established his own empire, breaking up the Mughal territory. Both remaining sons have built large coalitions and have divided the loyalties of the Mughal nobility who find they have to pledge to either side. With a weakened empire it is up to the two remaining sons to battle it out for control of the Mughal empire and their family legacy. Prince Muzzam has already defeated one brother and has prepared his forces to march on the other, it is time to see who is worthy of their father’s crown.

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241 BC: Sensing the mounting danger of Qin’s quest to expand its borders and unify the seven states after Qin’s successful campaign against Wei, a newly formed coalition army—the combined forces of six other states, Zhao, Chu, Wei, Yan, Han, and Qi, threaten Qin’s borders. Led by generals and strategists from powerhouse states Chu and Zhao, the coalition army has defeated Qin armies stationed at the Chu/Qin borders and continues to rapidly advance. As the coalition army captures city after city, Qin must fend off the invaders while maneuvering through various political power struggles erupting in the inner court. The young King of Qin’s coming-of-age ceremony is fast approaching, marking the day he assumes full power over state affairs, which are currently handled by his regent, the Prime Minister. Political factions rallying against the King have started to gain power. With ambitious politicians and princes vying for the throne, delegates must navigate conspiracies in the court and beyond. Based on the serialized manga series Kingdom and historical events, delegates will represent Qin generals, strategists, members of the King’s court, and statespeople. Over the course of the conference, delegates must work together to develop battle plans and strategies to overcome any obstacles on their path and pave the way for the unification of the seven states. Delegates will also be tasked with maintaining diplomatic relations with other states and other powerful forces, all while dealing with the intrigue of the inner court. History has its eyes on you as you rewrite the fate of Qin and China.

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Year 3070, in a galaxy far far away: A mysterious plant emerges from a series of planets called the Spice Isles. Extremely difficult to cultivate and prized for its anti-aging and healing properties, spice is the most valuable and highly sought-after commodity across the galaxy. Recent developments in the hydroponic growing technology for spice cultivation and the discovery of new spice variants have spurned major superpowers to vie for control of trade routes and distribution channels. The Crimson Merchant Guild, backed by the Pantune Empire, one of the largest forces on the United Inter-solar Senate, an assembly of planetary governments, was among the first to establish dominance in the spice trade. The Drgyle Republic, an emerging group of formerly individual planets, seeks to oust the guild by disrupting its monopoly over the spice trade. The Republic has been making moves on the guild’s outposts through squads of raiders, threatening the delicate balance of the budding spice trade. Delegates from either side of the conflict will be faced with trying to maintain and take over control of key trade posts and technologies to establish themselves as the number one spice traders in the galaxy. Inspired by the Portuguese and Dutch Spice Wars in the 17th century and various sci-fi media including Dune, Star Wars, and Cowboy Bebop, this is a joint crisis committee, with the Crimson Merchant Guild (Pantune Empire) on one side and the Drgyle Republic on the other. Delegates will represent merchants, politicians, and diplomats in the Empire and Republic’s councils, responsible for maintaining domestic power, seizing commercial opportunities, and forming strategic alliances. Trade relations via the Spice Isles are the key to success. Amidst chaos that stretches to the furthest reaches of the galaxy, who will arise victorious? Who will hold the world in their palm?

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Born in Azcapotzalco and elected king, Izcóatl has established himself as a powerful ruler both on the battlefield but also at home. By avenging the death of his predecessor at the hands of Maxtla of the nearby Tepanec, a rival city state, he was able to forge military alliances with nearby city states and create lasting relationships. After he and his allies defeated Maxtla a power vacuum formed in central Mexico, and Itzcóatl did not want to risk leaving it empty for long. He returned to his allies with a treaty that would bring together Itzcóatl’s Tenochtitlán and the neighboring states of Texcoco and Tlacopan. With the completion of the new tri-partie government the leadership convenes for the first time as the Aztec Empire to discuss how they wish to govern. Everything is up for debate including agricultural development, imperial expansion, and even road infrastructure. With the concerns of an increasingly large population and the opinions of now three times the ministers it may be that the most difficult part of ruling an empire is before them not behind.

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About the committee

This committee is suitable for only the most experienced delegates. It is designed to challenge delegates to engage in a high level of debate in one of UTMUN’s most creative and innovative committees. The topic of the committee will not be released prior to the first committee session and neither research nor a position paper is required to participate. HINT: DCI Jedburgh 1947-52

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