1

Mumbai MUNtra
November 10,
2024
Edited by Sanya Deshmukh
and Veer Shah, IPC

United Nations Security Council

“Help Us”, they cried! -Sharanya Velamuri, IPC

If brutal warfare is causing misery everywhere, UNSC will solve

the problem then and there. On 9th November 2024, Day 2 of
the UNSC committee’s discussion on “De-escalating tensions in
the middle east with special emphasis on non-state actors.”
continued. Delegates resumed discussing the subtopic “role of
non-state actors in Israel Palestine conflict”.
China has remained neutral, maintaining good relations with
both Israel and Palestine. It started off by stating their stance
loud and clear – while they have strong ties with both the Arab
and Israeli block (exemplified by infrastructure projects like
partnering in the ‘belt and road initiative’), they condemn and
would like to shed light on illegal Israeli occupations.
South Korea stated “Non-state actors like Hamas have
mismanaged humanitarian aid in Gaza, which has hindered its
effective distribution.” While the Rafah crossing has been
closed since May, the Kerem Shalom crossing has become the
main entry point, creating logistical challenges and backlogs.
Additionally, aid workers face threats from Hamas, the Israel
Defence Forces (IDF), and criminal gangs, while donor fatigue
and poor coordination between Israel, Egypt, and the UN have
exacerbated the situation. Despite Israel's initial siege,
humanitarian aid has gradually been allowed in, with Israel
allowing up to 60% private-sector imports, though Hamas's
control and taxation continue to limit and delay effective aid

A Shift In Focus
distribution.
“Israel’s war in Gaza has gone on for far too long. The tens of
thousands of Palestinian civilian casualties cannot be justified
or explained away.” - French President, Emmanuel Macron.
Discussing solutions and problems are equally important. The
topic “Discussing humanitarian solutions in the ongoing Israel- -Tiya Bothara, IPC
Palestine conflict” was discussed and most delegates agreed
to peace talks and provision of aid. After a discussion for the last two days on numerous solutions
One of the biggest problems in delivering humanitarian aid like ceasefire, formation of two states, formation of a sub-
was that the access points, like the Rafah crossing and Karem committee, sanctions committee and many more the United
Shalom crossing are controlled by Israel and Egypt. The Nations Security Council on the third day started with
delegate of the UK proposed a two-part solution to this: (1) discussions for the draft resolution. In the middle, an
using a port operated by an international coalition and (2) interactive press conference was held in the committee where
enabling organizations like UNRWA to function while the journalists posed various questions to the delegates.
improving security for aid delivery. Establishing a new port,
controlled multilaterally by neutral parties fixes this problem After this, in classic UNSC style, the committee did not pass
and establishes a stable route. However, care must be taken any draft resolution and the delegates instead decided to shift
such that the site doesn’t get targeted for bombing etc and to discussion of another motion for five speakers.
feasibility of building a port in the middle of an active zone
must be considered.
France focuses on another aspect of this topic by addressing
concerns about illicit weapons transfers while humanitarian
aid is being provided through the key crossings. France
proposed strengthening the capacity of UNTSO and
amending the mandate to allow monitoring of weapons which
may be fruitful in improving coordination with other UN
organisations.
Israel expressed frustration over the lack of consideration of
its perspective in terms of both political views and security
concerns. With the problems identified and arguments
weighed, civilians will soon be saved.
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Mumbai MUNtra November 10,

2024

All India Political Parties Meet

Will the magnified lens of the police burn its

citizens? -Joshna Sharma, IPC
After two dynamic days of debate, the simulation of the AIPPM “Congress does not understand how to improve life; we do,” he
committee entered its final hours. The first committee session declared, contending that the reforms would expedite legal
showed a transition into the second agenda, focusing on the processes and prioritize evidence-based judgments. Hardeep
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatya Nagarik Singh reinforced this perspective, “Is the opposition
Surakshit Sinhata (BNNS). The conversation now shifted uncomfortable with a progressive police force, or with
toward crucial issues surrounding police reforms, their impact progress itself?”
on democratic freedoms, and the preservation of state
autonomy. However, Minister Omar Abdullah promptly redirected the
conversation, noting that this amendment proceeded despite
Udhav Thackeray led the discussion, expressing concern that warnings from the standing committee. He raised concerns
the new police reforms could create a "police state." He over prison overcrowding, suggesting that heightened police
argued, "This isn’t how we strengthen democracy; this is how powers could exacerbate a strained system.
we erode it." He posed the question of whether these reforms
genuinely safeguard citizens or merely impose restrictions on Following this, Akhilesh Yadav presented his critique,
their liberties. questioning the government’s double standards. The
Samajwadi leader highlighted instances where the
In addition, MK Stalin argued that the proposed changes government released rape convicts while prosecuting
threatened state autonomy by further centralising authority. journalists under sedition laws. He argued that the
Drawing parallels to agencies like the Excise Department and administration “cheats citizens.”, pointing out that the BNS
the CBI, he suggested that the police might become effectively rebrands sedition as “subversion.” This empowers
government-controlled entities. His remarks stirred strong the police to suppress dissent more readily. Yadav also
reactions in the room as he argued that the laws promote a criticised the absence of separation between investigation
Hindu-centric, Sanskritized narrative aligned with Sanatana and prosecution, a standard in other democracies, which
Dharma. “Sanatana Dharma must be opposed! It promotes burdens Indian officers with both roles and weakens legal
caste hierarchy and division; instead, our country should protections.
follow a secular, Dravidian model.”, he declared.
Yadav’s rhetoric marked the end of the discussions, leading to
“No high ranking posts for Agniveer a brief suspension for informal debate. The first session's
debates highlighted the fundamental divide on the BNS and
recruits” – Dr. S. Jaishankar BNNS, with some viewing it as necessary recalibration. Others,
Pawan Kalyan rose in defence of the reforms. He presented however, emphasised its dangerous encroachment on
them as progressive strides to improve the justice system’s personal freedoms and concerns over unchecked police
efficiency and enhance security. authority. Committee members expertly weighed the potential
consequences of these reforms for India’s democratic balance
and citizen rights.

In Conversation with Mr. Rahul Gandhi

-Arnav Chitlange, IPC
Q : You always target your opposition for unemployment of
our country’s youth. Don’t you think when your party was in
power, you could have generated enough jobs for the
budding lawyers of our country which would have solved 2
problems- unemployment and blocked cases. What is your
say on this?
A : When we got into power, the judicial state of the country
was in a shambles and because we spent our time in fixing
the state to a normal state, we were not able to create these
opportunities. I think it is time for the current government to
carry out these activities.
Q : Do you think that some cases like rape and murder could
have been prevented if severe punishment like death
penalties were given to the offenders?
A : No, I do not think that rape and murder cases deserve
death penalties because the offender can be made into a
good person again. If we kill them, aren’t we the murderers?
3

Mumbai MUNtra
Historical United Nations General Assembly
November 10,
2024

Justice or Just Us ? Insights From Albania

Q : With ethnic Albanians affected by the conflict in
-Anjali Agrawal, IPC Kosovo, what is Albania’s position on supporting
independence movements versus promoting regional
stability?
A : Albania supports the autonomy of ethnic
In the fourth session, Croatia facilitated a restrained caucus in Albanians in Kosovo and advocates for their rights,
respect to the use of already existing legislation towards holding but also prioritizes regional stability and condemns
states and individuals accountable for human rights abuses. The violence affecting the Balkan region.
delegates were active and presented a range of strategies on Q : How does Albania propose the international
mechanisms for accountability and justice, with an excellent community balance national sovereignty with the
input from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Bosnia's representative protection of ethnic minorities in the Former
indicated the request for an ad hoc tribunal, patterned like Yugoslavia?
Nuremberg and Tokyo, to mete out justice that is fair for all, A : Albania believes in respecting national sovereignty
irrespective of rank. In fact, only in January 1, 1991, that this ad while ensuring minority rights, calling for international
hoc tribunal was established into operation, while touting guidelines to protect minorities without compromising
individual criminal responsibility and insisting on it to supplant state sovereignty.
national courts in order for the outcome of justice is neither Q : What are Albania’s views on the effectiveness of
lacking nor wavering. Other provisions for the performance of UN intervention thus far, and how does it envision
the tribunal included witness and victim anonymity, as well as future peace efforts?
appellate jurisdiction to ensure that justice was done. A : Albania sees the need for stronger UN security
measures in the Balkans and recommends more
Romania used a very proper argument by telling the tribunal to resources for peacekeeping to address ongoing
act on established precedents. The representative insisted that challenges.
war criminals be extradited to UN custody, clearly stating that Q : How does Albania assess the risk of the conflict
this was a crucial issue regarding the prosecution of political spilling over into neighbouring countries, and what
and military leaders for inciting and planning crimes. The steps is it prepared to take to address this risk?
position of Romania was not exempted from debate, even as A : Albania is concerned about spillover and supports
some members and members of the executive board made the diplomatic and regional security efforts to prevent
committee seek clarification on issues of such jurisdiction and tensions from escalating across borders.
application. Romania emphasized the necessity of conducting Q. In light of escalating ethnic violence, does Albania
thorough and impartial investigations, therefore demanding a believe it has a moral or strategic obligation to
tribunal that should, in all respects, fulfil the tenets of the Geneva intervene, and if so, in what capacity?
and Hague Conventions. Their strident remarks on persecution A: Albania feels a moral obligation to support affected
of influential figures caught up with other delegates who drew communities through diplomatic and humanitarian
concerns over disputed jurisdictions. aid, working within international frameworks for
peace.
The delegate of the Albanian delegation highlighted a missing
dimension-the international accountability frameworks are
increasingly supported by existing frameworks, such as the
Human Development Index, developed by the UN in 1990. A
supplementary section should be integrated into the national
judicial system to evaluate and report on human rights
accountability.
This addition, Albania suggested, could allow for the grading and
ranking of countries’ progress in implementing legal frameworks
for human rights, fostering a preventive and constructive
approach rather than a purely punitive one. Their appeal to
recognize the broader impacts of legislation on national policies
was well-received, with several delegates expressing interest in
the potential for regular progress assessments. The fifth session
became an unmoderated caucus, where delegates freely
exchanged ideas on the draft resolution. Although the session
was lively, the committee could not come to a conclusive position,
as different views did not allow the formation of a common
stance on the final draft resolution.
4

United Nations Human Rights Council

The Fourth Pillar of Democracy, Romania Raises Concern Over Beaten

Journalist
Crumbling -Shiv, IPC
Romania jumped in with another shocker, sharing a

-Ananya Shetty, IPC

case of a foreign journalist who was reportedly beaten
by police. China’s response? Basically, that it was
justified, as the journalist had broken local policies.
The discussion on the causes and effects of human rights This didn’t sit well with some delegates, who argued
violations against journalists in conflict zones took some that “local policy” might be crossing a line when it
interesting turns, with some bold comments and even a bit of comes to human rights.
humour.

Georgia jumped in first, talking about how their journalists are

well-trained and ready to survive in conflict zones. When the
Chair asked what kind of person they thought had the "survival
skills" to report in dangerous areas, Georgia casually replied,
"The ones who come alive!" The comment definitely lightened the
mood, but it also raised some serious questions about what it
really takes for a journalist to be prepared for the risks they face
in warzones.

Things got a little tense when Georgia asked China about the
assault on a BBC journalist in their country. China responded by
turning the spotlight onto India, accusing them of mistreating
journalists too. This back-and-forth made the room a bit
uncomfortable, with both sides defending their actions.

At one point, China even suggested that journalists in India

might not have been prepared for the customs in China. It felt
like they were trying to say that the treatment of journalists was Lost in Debate
just a result of cultural differences or misunderstandings, not
necessarily about press freedom being violated. -Shiv, IPC
The conversation was supposed to be about the risks
Throughout the debate, it became clear that journalist journalists face specifically in conflict zones. Instead, it
harassment and abuse are not just isolated incidents in one turned into a general debate on censorship and police
country—they’re happening globally, and in many cases, violence, brutality. Things got so chaotic that the Executive
intimidation, and harassment are everyday challenges for Board (EB) had to step in multiple times to get the
reporters in conflict zones. The delegates were split on how to discussion back on track. This resulted in a complete
tackle the issue, with some pushing for stronger international shift from the original agenda to a completely new
protections and others more focused on national concerns. one, to align with the focus of conflict zones.

As the session went on, it was clear that while everyone agrees on
the need for press freedom, there’s still a long way to go in
creating global protections for journalists who risk their lives to
tell the truth.

China’s Call-Out on India Over Manipur

-Shiv, IPC
Right off the bat, China took a jab at India by bringing up the
Manipur case, where journalists reportedly faced harassment,
torture, and even assault. India didn’t stay quiet, though. They
clapped back by questioning China’s media censorship
policies, pointing out that restricting the press doesn’t exactly
scream “freedom of speech.” China wasn’t fazed, insisting that
censorship is part of its national laws and that foreign
journalists need to stick to them.
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United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

A Dividing and Contrasting Tapestry

-Paulomi Babre, IPC

The GSL opened on a somber note, as delegates The first agenda was then closed, and discussions on the
articulated the increasing imperatives arising before civil second agenda began. The General Speakers List
society organizations (CSOs) around the world. Sri Lanka, opened with a focus on the alarming rate of
grappling with an impending economic crisis and the environmental crimes. Guatemala pointed out that the
aftermath of a civil war, was a significant focus. growing menace of animal trafficking and organized
crime reflected the broader issue. Meanwhile, the
Bolivia condemned Saudi Arabia and China for repressing Philippines underscored the business nature of
human rights by restricting freedom of speech through environmental crimes, which are often overlooked due to
surveillance and digital authoritarianism. their low-risk nature and high rewards.

After the GSLs, the Committee of the Whole (COW) took A surprising voice in the environmental discussion, Saudi
place. Colombia recognized the importance of CSOs but, at Arabia, delivered a stinging judgment on environmental
the same time, expressed concern regarding their misuse, crimes and their crippling effect on the planet. El
citing the tragic case of Zakia, a women's rights activist who Salvador challenged this green facade by questioning
was massacred in Afghanistan. Congo also mentioned how whether Saudi Arabia's commitment to environmental
homosexuals were killed in the UAE and were victims of sustainability was compatible with its dependence on the
sodomy. highly polluting oil industry. This left Saudi Arabia
stumbling in the dark, unsure how to respond to the
El Salvador, a strong advocate of human rights, sought pointed question.
better coordination among CSOs and rebuked China's
efforts to suppress dissent within the UN. Saudi Arabia, Madagascar, with poetic eloquence, remarked, “Bombs
which is often vocal regarding human rights issues in other and missiles are not the real power; our natural
countries, surprisingly proposed amendments to the environment is.”
treaties on arms imports. However, it remained silent on the
fate of CSOs within its own territory. The Mod delved deeper into the issue of preventive
measures against transnational environmental
As the debate continued, it became clear that rising threats organized crime. Discussions included perfecting
against CSOs, including physical violence, intimidation, and international cooperation, enhancing intelligence
legal harassment, were being highlighted. Funding exchange, and improving the capacity of law
emerged as a significant issue; Colombia and Ecuador enforcement.
stressed the need to avoid the undue influence of large
donors. Colombia also retorted to El Salvador by stating, Solutions were found and truths were uncovered. CSOs
“More than half of your CSOs have been funded by us. So, I are crucial and must be safeguarded with proper
think you should worry about your country more than ours.” measures. Crimes such as wildlife and human trafficking
must be eradicated across all countries worldwide.
 6

International Labour Conference

Man vs Machine: The Modern Industrial

Revolution -Raniya A., IPC

“History is often defined as the study of the past or the study

of change, and it is precisely history that has brought upon us
the dawn of artificial intelligence.” These powerful words were
spoken by a delegate representing the Japanese government
at the Mumbai MUN 2024 International Labor Conference.
This referred to the first agenda item: assessing the impact of
digitalization and artificial intelligence (A.I.) on employment
practices at the conference.

Delegates were given 90 seconds each to share their views on

the agenda, representing various nationalities and portfolios
(government, employer, or worker). The session featured
contrasting perspectives as delegates discussed concerns
and potential solutions.

Certain delegates shared their ideas to increase e-skills

among the youth to compensate for reduced labour
workforce requirements. “A.I. should not be viewed with
superstition and fear, but rather embraced with open arms,”
staid the representative of employers in India.

Several employers and government representatives from

different nationalities agreed, including the Chinese delegate
representing employers, who stated, “Increased digitalization
results in a better economy, and this change should not be
seen in a negative light, as it would only generate more jobs
for the workforce.”

The government delegate of Germany argued that the first

priority shouldn’t be A.I. but rather the workers. Most
delegates agreed that there was no need to eliminate the
human workforce. Instead, they viewed A.I. and rapid These fears highlight the broader challenges nations
digitalization as tools that could help increase work hours face in implementing A.I. on a global scale. Questions
without putting pressure on labour. Some demanded the use arose about each nation’s limitations in A.I.
of human centered A.I. in order to not let workers lose their implementation. When asked about digitalizing a
jobs. The French employer representative assured the largely rural population, India claimed that it had
committee that workers would be prepared, not displaced. partnered with Microsoft to build skills nationwide.
China, when asked whether its citizens supported rapid
Despite these promises, many worker delegates voiced digitalization, responded, “The people of China work
concerns. “If we depend on A.I. completely, staffing actions will together for China.”
be determined by an algorithm that may be carelessly
designed,” aid by the worker delegate representing the U.S. In the end, it was clear that a rapidly digitalizing
Another worker delegate representing Russia agreed with workforce requires proper management. While the
these fears and mentioned its own concerns regarding the debate continues, we are closer than ever to finding a
digital divide among its citizens. better way, a way that can reshape the world.
7

World Bank

Disputes and Tensions Delay Critical Discussions Press Conference Highlights with Bhoomi
-Krati Maheshwari, IPC Mehta, IPC
The press conference featured several tough
The World Bank committee session continued with intense
questions from the media. One of the most intense
debates surrounding the first agenda: reconstruction
moments came when reporters asked the
strategies for fragile, conflict-affected areas (FCAs). The
representative from the Central African Republic
session was filled with powerful speeches, accusations, and
(CAR) about a controversial statement made by the
tensions between delegates, as disagreements surfaced
delegate: “Gender equality is not a priority.” The
alongside shared concerns.
press pushed back, suggesting that CAR's focus on
other urgent issues, like conflict, was overshadowing
The day began with Iran delivering a strong opening speech,
gender equality. Unfortunately, CAR’s response
emphasising that social and environmental issues should be
didn’t do much to clear things up, and the press
prioritised equally with violent conflicts, urging all countries
seemed less than impressed with the explanation.
to pool resources in support of FCAs. Building on this, Mexico
highlighted pressing issues like poverty, poor governance,
It was a tense moment, with no resolution in sight.
and environmental degradation, criticising the institution’s
In contrast, Iran's representative had a strong
failure to provide adequate resources, which has allowed
moment when responding to an accusation from
corruption to spread in many countries.
France about smuggling weapons to Russia via Iraq.
Iran’s response was clear, detailed, and effectively
Germany expressed frustration with the World Bank’s reactive
addressed the claims, leaving little room for doubt.
approach, saying that simply assisting after a crisis isn’t
The answer was praised for its precision and
enough and calling for more proactive intervention. Germany
straightforwardness, standing out as one of the
also claimed that the World Bank’s interactions with some
most impressive moments of the day.
nations had been excessively harsh, which sparked further
debate. One delegate responded by questioning whether
However, not all countries were as prepared. Yemen
leniency would open the World Bank to exploitation, noting
faced a tough question about whether they could
that, as a financial institution, it must adhere to certain
guarantee that the World Bank’s pledged aid
standards to maintain integrity.
wouldn’t be misused or wasted. Yemen hesitated
before responding with “no comment,” a response
France intensified the debate by calling out Iran, questioning
that left many wondering if they simply didn’t have
how Iran could advocate for resource pooling while allegedly
an answer, and it felt like a missed opportunity to
smuggling weapons from Iran through Iraq to Russia. Iran
offer clarity.
exercised its right to reply, dismissing these accusations as
“fake news” and underscoring that such allegations threaten
Despite all the action in the press conference, the
its international integrity.
second agenda item still wasn’t addressed, which left
everyone questioning the flow of the session. Was it
Denmark then shifted the focus by raising concerns about
a strategic decision to focus on other issues, or was
the World Bank’s limited support for women, highlighting that
it simply an oversight? This lingering question now
women in fragile regions are particularly vulnerable to
hovers over the proceedings, leaving participants
violence and poverty. Denmark urged the World Bank to
wondering what could have been accomplished if
prioritise gender equality as a key factor for social stability.
time had been allotted.
However, the call for gender inclusivity largely went
unaddressed by other delegates, exposing how such issues
are often sidelined in international discussions.

Towards the end of the day, Syria made a final speech about
the agenda’s significance for its country, detailing recent
efforts to support the working class. Norway quickly
questioned Syria on the representation of women in its
labour force, pressing for information on protections for
women. Syria admitted to having no specific laws for women,
concluding with the statement that gender equality is not a
current priority, given their ongoing struggles.

The day concluded with tensions running high, as critical

issues remained unresolved and the second agenda item
was left untouched. The session highlighted the complex and
often conflicting priorities among delegates, leaving a
pressing need for greater alignment in future discussions.
8

World Health Organisation | United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space

WHO COPUOS
Yaun, Diplomacy, and the Global Health Mask Guardians of the Galaxy: Space Debris
-Devanshi, IPC -Sharvari S, IPC
The Chinese delegate's recent request for funding under the Tackling the agenda for sustainable space exploration,
Immunization Agenda 2030 (IA2030) has raised some interesting the committee session of COPUOS began with a
questions, given China’s vast financial resources. After all, it’s like moderated caucus.
watching a millionaire ask for a handout—it certainly grabs The delegation of Israel talked about the achievements
attention. While China has contributed significantly to global of the Israel Space Agency or the ISA and the
health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with vaccine delegation of Australia, following the point of
donations and production, this move seems a bit out of left field. information, grilled Israel that if their Prime Minister is
Why ask for funding when China is already one of the leading corrupted then how will their space agency not
vaccine manufacturers and suppliers worldwide? be corrupted too. The committee was filled with an
The situation highlights a larger issue: the ongoing need for uproar of table banging from the other delegates and
vaccine equity. Countries like India, Nigeria, and Pakistan, with it seemed like the delegate of Australia left the
their larger populations and fewer resources, are in much delegate of Israel speechless.
greater need of external funding to ensure equitable access to
vaccines. These nations face enormous challenges in reaching Yet, to reply to the accusation, the delegate of Israel
remote areas, often stymied by poor infrastructure and political spoke about how their space agency has collaborated
instability. This is where the divide in global health priorities with countries like the USA and its space organisation
becomes apparent, echoing the sentiment from Charles Dickens’ NASA thus proving that it is not corrupt at all. The
A Tale of Two Cities: "It was the best of times, it was the worst of delegate of Australia expressed their dissatisfaction
times." Some countries thrive, while others struggle to provide with the answer.
basic healthcare services.
China's request could signal a shift in how the global community A series of GSLs later, the session was paused.
views healthcare priorities—perhaps this is China’s way of Resuming the session with the agenda of mitigating the
positioning itself as a leader in global health, or maybe it reflects space debris in context to sustainable space
a deeper negotiation about resources and influence. Either way, exploration, the delegate of Sweden which mentioned
it underscores the importance of equitable distribution of being a supporter of many debris free rocket missions
resources, so no one is left behind in the race for immunization. was cross-questioned by the delegate of China that if
While China has the resources to fund its own health initiatives, Sweden cannot manage their on ground
the delegate pointed out specific challenges the country faces in environmental issues, the space debris problems
achieving the IA2030 goals, particularly in remote and rural would take centuries to solve. Sweden’s riposte was “If it
areas. Despite its economic strength, ensuring equitable access takes centuries to solve, should we just stop making
to vaccines remains a complex task, particularly for marginalized efforts now?” The response yielded impressed looks
populations in less accessible regions. This reinforces the point from the other delegates and left China’s criticism
that, while China may be financially well-positioned, global health futile.
issues are far more nuanced than simply having the funds—
implementation remains a key challenge. Further speeches continued throughout the session,
leading to Australia’s speech regarding their efforts
towards constructing biodegradable satellites which
Delegate Drama are designed to reduce space junk like LignoSat and
-Kamakshi Bahuguna, IPC Optimus which are made from materials like
“Imagine this,” a delegate exclaimed, “superpower countries like biodegradable wood. LignoSat can disintegrate upon
the USA are ready to swoop in with drones and machines, re-entry into earth’s atmosphere and Optimus can
delivering life-saving vaccines and healthcare to refuel, repair and de-orbit old satellites. This plan of
underdeveloped nations! This innovative approach could action was criticised by The Russian Federation by
drastically reduce human-to-human disease stating that how would biodegradable materials work
transmission!” in outer space where no biotic organisms thrive as well
This filled the room filled with nods of approval, as delegates as degradation would create more space debris so
envisioned a future where drones danced through the skies like how exactly is this method helping to reduce it.
benevolent fairies, sprinkling health. However, the mood shifted
when representatives from South Africa and Nigeria raised their Passing a motion for an unmoderated caucus, the
voices with valid concerns, “Drones are often seen as weapons of committee experienced an uproar of energy as
war! How can we differentiate between a health-giving drone and delegates formed alliances, created blocs and ran
one that’s armed with teeth? It’s like trying to spot a needle in a around gathering delegations to form alliances with. It
haystack!” was a good change of scenery too see all delegates
The committee was united in its goal: to ensure that innovation in actively interacting and collaborating for further
healthcare reaches every corner of the globe—preferably proceedings.
without turning the skies into a battlefield!!
9

United Nations Development Programme | United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

The Press Conference that brought all the heat

to a Climate Change Convention! -Ananya Salvi, IPC

 India’s fast-growing economy has a substantial carbon

footprint. How does India plan to balance its development
needs with its commitment to support SIDS in addressing
climate change? Does the government acknowledge any
responsibility for contributing to the challenges faced by
vulnerable nations, or is it more focused on internal
growth at this stage?

 Maldives often highlights rising sea levels as an

existential threat, yet the country’s own water pollution
and coral reef destruction contribute to environmental
vulnerability. How can the Maldives address its internal
pollution issues before blaming the global community?

 Singapore is known for its advanced environmental

policies but remains one of the world’s largest oil refining
hubs. How does Singapore reconcile its economic
reliance on fossil fuels with its calls for global climate
action, especially when advocating for the well-being of
SIDS?

 The United States has had a fluctuating commitment to A Snippet from Day 1:
climate action, depending on its political leadership.
The conference session saw delegates understanding
Given this inconsistency, how can SIDS rely on any
the urgency and reality of climate action, focusing on
promises or aid from the United States, knowing its
both the shared responsibility of all nations and the
climate commitments may change every election cycle?
unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing
States (SIDS). The meeting was filled with discussions on
 Russia has faced criticism for viewing climate change as
global warming and the necessity of transparent,
an economic opportunity, rather than a crisis, due to the
effective measures to combat it. From funding
potential for accessing new resources in a warmer Arctic.
mechanisms to sustainable development strategies,
Does Russia intend to continue capitalizing on climate
delegates put forth a range of proposals and concerns
impacts for its benefit, knowing that this stance may
that sparked spirited debate.
isolate it globally and mark it as an antagonist to small,
vulnerable nations facing existential threats?
The Delegate of Argentina proposed a model of
private-public partnerships as a way for SIDS to
 Mauritius has called on major polluting countries to take
finance their climate resilience efforts. However, this
greater responsibility for climate change, yet its own
solution was met with an anointed query from the
tourism and fishing industries put significant pressure on
Delegate of Mauritius, who questioned Argentina’s
its marine ecosystems and coral reefs. Is Mauritius
ability to meet its own carbon emission goals, given its
prepared to impose restrictions on these industries to
dependence on agriculture—a sector notorious for its
protect its environment and demonstrate true climate
high carbon footprint. The challenge highlighted the
leadership, even if it impacts its economy?
difficulty of balancing economic priorities with
environmental responsibilities, a delicate balance that
 China has made strides in renewable energy but remains
many nations must struggle with
a major investor in coal projects, both domestically and
abroad. How does China justify these conflicting actions,
The main crux of the session was visible: the time for
especially when they pose risks to vulnerable nations
hesitation is over. Delegates recognize that only with
facing climate-induced destruction? Will China prioritize
collective action, bold ideas, and an unwavering
profit from coal investments or its international
commitment to accountability can the international
responsibility as a major power in climate leadership?
community hope to solve climate change. As the world
watches, the pressure mounts for these nations to
Watch the press conference exclusively on Mumbai MUN’s
move from dialogue to decisive action.
YouTube Channel!
 10

MUN ki Baat
Opinion Editorials by
members of the IPC,
Mumbai MUN 2024

Featuring Ananya Salvi, Joshna Sharma, Anjali Agrawal

Diplomatic Déjà Vu: France's Strange Leap to 1994
What the world stands to lose as SIDS Drown
~Anjali Agrawal
-Ananya Salvi
Just as it was an anticlimactic seriousness in H-UNGA,
Nature forgives in silence, letting storms pass and rivers cleanse,
debating the crisis in former Yugoslavia, a French
but its wrath falls hardest on the innocent—those who have done
delegate gave the committee an unexpected comic
the least to harm it. Nature forgives, but when its patience wears
intermission. Serious, with a sense of gravity, she
thin, it’s often the gentle souls, those least deserving, who feel the
addressed the room, voice saturated in conviction yet
full weight of its fury.
found her words "the Rwandan genocide," an event meant
Does that sound fair to you? If it doesn’t, then know that this is the
to start some year later according to the freeze date of
reality that we are living in.
May 1st, 1993. One mistake and she interwove a patch of
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are among the first to face a
history with just a little science fiction in there to bring
problem they did not create. Their carbon footprint is a fraction
those stuck in the room, and the executive board a
of the world’s largest polluters, yet they bear the consequences of
chuckle.
the world’s failure. Allowing these islands to drown is a grave
The reaction was swift, though. Delegates looked around;
injustice. It is the duty of wealthier nations, the ones responsible
some shared barely-suppressed giggles before the room
for the emissions choking our planet, to step in and help SIDS
erupted in laughter. And, as has become tradition in this
adapt and survive. To ignore this duty would be to abandon
version of Model UN, the EB didn't waste any time in
humanity.
turning a gaffe into a punchline. "That's like Lawrence
When an island drowns, so does its ecosystem, its coral reefs, its
Bishnoi taking responsibility for Salman Khan's murder
ancient mangrove forests whose roots shield coastlines. These
today!", quipped one of the EB members effectively
ecosystems are not only beautiful but vital; they stabilize our
encapsulating the absurdity that France had embarked
planet, protect biodiversity, and serve as home to countless
on a quantum leap through time! What was perhaps
species. Coral reefs alone support nearly a quarter of all marine
initially a very powerful call to action ended up being a
life. If these dissolve into rising seas, the loss to our planet’s
lesson, not on the relevance of accuracy, but on the
biodiversity will be catastrophic, a ripple effect felt in every ocean
relevance of accuracy to facts-especially, and even more
and coast around the world.
so with extremely sensitive topics. France meant to
As SIDS disappear, we not only lose geography but also humanity.
perhaps contextualize the atrocities of genocide, but her
Cultures, unlearned languages, stories of resilience, adaptation
mention at the wrong time was a classic reminder of the
and being one with nature, the fishermen who know the ocean
Model UN "freeze date" rule that is probably forever
better than most marine devices, the weavers, the tribes, all of
cemented in the memory of everyone on the committee at
them lose their home just because of the world, ignoring its
this moment. Words, of course, count in diplomacy, but
responsibility chooses to ignore the repercussions of their
here one misstatement sent France on an unintended trip
actions.
to 1994.
The people of these islands have resilience in a world of
The moment brought a welcome reminder in the room: it's
expanding chaos. They have found ways to sustain themselves
all too easy, even for passionate delegates, to slip up.
through hurricanes, droughts, and ocean surges, skills that will
France's accidental "time travel" may not change
soon be essential for us all. Their knowledge of sustainable
committee proceedings, but it certainly added a
fishing, agriculture, and communal unity are lessons we cannot
memorable and very human touch to the day. These
afford to lose. If their voices are silenced, we are left adrift in our
moments make Model UN unique- the balance of high-
own ignorance, at a loss for the wisdom that might just help us
stakes debate with the inevitable quirks that keep us all
survive.
grounded. But, most of all for the French delegate, it
When an island drowns, the loss extends beyond just land and life,
makes for some nasty humour to remember that it doesn't
it is a loss of conscience. It signals that humanity has chosen
work that way; instead, it reminds her of the notion that an
indifference over empathy, abandoning the values
error may soon creep in. The opposite of diplomatic
of accountability and justice. Watching entire nations disappear is
blunders cannot be helped, and in this instance, her
a moral failure, a warning about the type of world we create.
unintentional tribute to 1994 really freed the entire
committee to find levity-and quite likely a good-natured
Poetry, Politics, and Pointlessness: AIPPM's Infinite Loop ribbing by the EB.
-Joshna Sharma
Like most committees, a major issue the AIPPM faced over the past two days was that of circular conversations. Members joined
the conga line of speeches with few standing out, and even the use of poetry became redundant and repetitive after the fourth
or fifth occurrence. Whilst ruling party members repeatedly emphasised the benefits of the widely discussed Agneepath
scheme, the opposition remained fixated on concerns about future job placements and the lack of long-term benefits.

Delegates seemed oblivious to how saturated the topic had become, each more interested in hearing themselves speak than in
contributing meaningful points. Furthermore, the committee lacked diversity in its discourse, primarily sticking to the
Agneepath Yojana for the entirety of the first two days.

Committee discussions and conferences were often disrupted by frequent contributors like MK Stalin and S. Jaishankar. While
the points they raised were interesting and valid in their own right, these interventions diverted valuable time away from more
focused debate on the agenda. Instances like these serve as a stark example of why justice often takes so long to be delivered.
When powerful politicians prioritise delivering the wittiest line or the largest insult over substantive dialogue, the true purpose
of these discussions is lost in the noise.