URUMUN 2026

Topics

1. The Situation in Haiti: Addressing Gang Violence and State Collapse
2. Maritime Security in the South China Sea

About the committee

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will address two pressing crises that pose serious threats to international peace and security. The first topic, The Situation in Haiti: Addressing Gang Violence and State Collapse, examines the escalating instability in Haiti. Armed gangs have expanded their control over large parts of the capital, undermining state authority and contributing to widespread violence, displacement, and humanitarian suffering. Political uncertainty and weakened institutions have further limited the government’s ability to restore order. Delegates will explore how the international community can support security sector reform, strengthen governance, protect civilians, and provide humanitarian assistance — while carefully respecting Haiti’s sovereignty and long-term self-determination. The second topic, Maritime Security in the South China Sea, focuses on rising geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea, a region vital to global trade and economic stability. Overlapping territorial claims — particularly between China and the Philippines — have increased diplomatic friction and military activity. The militarization of disputed areas and challenges to freedom of navigation raise concerns about potential escalation. Delegates will consider how the UNSC can promote dialogue, reinforce international law, reduce the risk of armed conflict, and encourage cooperative mechanisms that preserve regional stability. Within the UNSC, delegates are expected to balance national interests with collective security, developing practical and diplomatic solutions that uphold international law while preventing further instability.

Chair

• Mohamed Qassem

Countries

Topics

1. Human Rights Violations in Counterterrorism Operations in the Sahel
2. Digital Surveillance and Political Repression

About the committee

The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) will address two critical challenges at the intersection of security and fundamental freedoms. The first topic, Human Rights Violations in Counterterrorism Operations in the Sahel, focuses on the complex security situation in countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. While governments in the region are combating extremist groups, reports have emerged of unlawful detentions, extrajudicial killings, and harm to civilians. Delegates will debate how counterterrorism operations can remain effective while fully respecting international human rights law, ensuring accountability, and strengthening civilian protection mechanisms. The second topic, Digital Surveillance and Political Repression, examines the increasing global use of spyware, facial recognition technologies, and online monitoring tools. In various regions of the world, such technologies have been used to track political opponents, journalists, and activists. Delegates will explore how to balance national security concerns with the protection of privacy, freedom of expression, and democratic principles, while considering the need for international standards and oversight mechanisms. Within this committee, delegates are expected to engage in principled yet pragmatic debate, proposing solutions that safeguard both security and fundamental human rights in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Chairs

• Floranne Keulen
• Jadon de Heer

Countries

Topics

1. Strengthening Global Vaccine Distribution After COVID-19 and for Future Pandemics
2. Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Developing and Developed Countries

About the committee

The World Health Organization (WHO) will address two urgent and interconnected global health challenges that continue to shape international cooperation. The first topic, Strengthening Global Vaccine Distribution After COVID-19 and for Future Pandemics, focuses on the inequalities and weaknesses in global vaccine access that became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Delegates will examine how the international community can improve cooperation, expand local production capacities, enhance technology sharing, and strengthen healthcare systems to ensure faster, fairer, and more effective vaccine distribution during future global health emergencies. The second topic, Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Developing and Developed Countries, addresses the alarming rise of drug-resistant infections worldwide. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in healthcare and agriculture have reduced the effectiveness of life saving medicines. Delegates will discuss strategies to promote responsible antibiotic use, invest in research and development of new treatments, improve surveillance systems, and strengthen international coordination to prevent a global health crisis. Within this committee, delegates are expected to propose realistic, policy-oriented solutions that reflect both national interests and the shared responsibility of protecting global public health.

Chair

• Paramie Vidarshana Undupitiya Gamage

Countries

Topics

1. Climate Change and Conflict in the Horn of Africa
2. Rising Sea Levels & Small Island States

About the committee

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) will address two urgent environmental challenges that directly impact global stability and human security. The first topic, Climate Change and Conflict in the Horn of Africa, explores how extreme droughts and environmental degradation have intensified food shortages, displacement, and tensions in countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia. Climate change has acted as a threat multiplier, increasing competition over water, land, and resources. Delegates will examine how regional cooperation, climate adaptation strategies, and international support can reduce instability and strengthen resilience in vulnerable communities. The second topic, Rising Sea Levels and Small Island States, focuses on the existential threat faced by island nations such as Tuvalu and the Maldives. Rising sea levels endanger territory, infrastructure, freshwater supplies, and even national sovereignty. Delegates will discuss climate adaptation measures, international climate financing, legal protections for displaced populations, and the broader question of global responsibility in addressing environmental displacement. Within UNEP, delegates are expected to develop forward-looking and cooperative solutions that reflect the shared responsibility of protecting both the environment and international peace.

Chair

• Eirini Liaropoulou

Countries