From fast-paced conflict resolution to revolutionary policy changes, the Disarmament and International Security Committee lies at the forefront of the United Nations General Assembly. As the first committee of the General Assembly, DISEC addresses conflicts and threats to international peace, and attempts to maintain global stability and security. Although its resolutions are non-binding, DISEC’s efforts are highly influential and often lay the groundwork for resolutions in other committees of the United Nations. The vast membership of DISEC makes it an especially important organ for dealing with issues of an international scope.
This committee is designed for both beginners and experienced delegates alike. Position papers, although strongly recommended, are not required. However, delegates who wish to be considered for an award must submit their position papers by January 12, 2026, at 23:59 PST. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide, on the Delegate Resources Page.
Topic A: Cyberwarfare (Click to show summary)
Cyberspace is the newest domain of geopolitical conflict, in which cyberwarfare takes place. Cyberwarfare has transformed traditional warfare by allowing increased stealth in offensive operations, such as using malware that is difficult to trace back to the responsible entity. Additionally, cyberespionage and obstruction of government telecommunication are used to support traditional warfare operations, since said support can render an enemy’s defence significantly weaker. As governments start to digitize various aspects of their nation as a means of development and advancement, the frequent lack of sufficient cybersecurity also renders them more vulnerable to attack by other nation-states. International discourse must occur as to how adequate cybersecurity can be made accessible to all nations and how the modernization of warfare can occur at a manageable rate.
Topic B: Somali Civil War (Click to show summary)
Somalia has been engulfed in constant clan warfare and political tensions since 1991, making it one of the longest-lasting ongoing civil wars. With factors like climate change, historic clan rivalries, and jihadist groups, the Somali civil war is notably unique from other conflicts. Additionally, its proximity to a crucial maritime trade route and its secessionist regions have exacerbated foreign political interests in Somalia, further complicating attempts for a united Somalia. After decades of international funding and support, the consistent concerns of corruption, lack of resources, and the dire humanitarian crisis have caused significant donor burnout and redirection of attention towards other pertinent geopolitical conflicts. It is critical that the international community does not let the situation in Somalia deteriorate further than it already has.
Karissa Lin | Director
As a Grade 10 student at Crofton House School, Karissa is honoured to serve as the Director for DISEC at VMUN 2026. Since entering her first Model UN conference two years ago as an ambitious beginner, she has grown to enjoy the competitive discourse of mock-diplomacy and cherish the supportive community in every committee room. Whether a curious first-timer or a seasoned gavel-hunter, she knows that every delegate will walk out of the VMUN Closing Ceremony with valuable friendships, a newfound or renewed love for MUN, and a silly story about sprinting down flights of stairs with a suitcase in hand. Outside of the committee room, Karissa can be found crashing out over debate, “locking in” at Breka, and carefully curating her Pinterest boards. Despite her lack of athletic aptitude, she looks forward to a memorable weekend of her favourite (non-spectator) sport at VMUN 2026!
Sin Li | Chair
Entering his Grade 12 year at Semiahmoo Secondary, Sin Li, who first became involved in Model UN through his participation in his school’s debate club, is now honoured to serve as the Chair of DISEC at VMUN 2026. Despite experiencing his first conference in Grade 8 as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (which he’d never heard of before the conference), the constant debate, discussion, and socialization that is unique to MUN made him fall in love. Although his historical knowledge may not be particularly extensive, Sin is still drawn to the complexities of international politics that can be seen within various MUN committees. Beyond his passion for MUN, Sin loves to listen to music, follow esports and Formula 1, and read webnovels. He can often be found bothering his friends, procrastinating his homework, or checking out new cafes. Sin is absolutely ecstatic to meet all the delegates at VMUN 2026!
Christen Chiu | Assistant Director
In her Grade 11 year at Crofton House School, Christen is delighted to serve as the Assistant Director of DISEC at VMUN 2026. Ever since being dragged to her first conference, Christen has become captivated by the fast-paced, thrilling atmosphere exclusive to the venue ballrooms. Moreover, Model UN has given Christen the greatest opportunities to form some of her most precious friendships and memories. Outside of the committee room, Christen can be found figure skating, convincing herself that her Brandy Melville store credit qualifies as financial investment, or choosing runs solely based on how good the route will look on Strava. Christen looks forward to meeting all delegates for a weekend of fruitful debate!
Simrat Kaur Matreja | Assistant Director
As a Grade 12 student at Khalsa Secondary School, Simrat is honoured to be serving as the Assistant Director of DISEC. Since joining Model United Nations in Grade 9, Simrat has been intrigued by competitive delegates’ endless energy and confidence and the extent to which relevant world issues were tackled. From being a novice delegate raising her placard for the first time as Austria in WHO to leading the hosting duties of their school conference, the memories and experiences of MUN have made her the speaker and leader she is today. Outside the committee room, Simrat may be found overusing her Thesaurus, adding to her ever-growing list of responsibilities, or bravely attempting to tutor her younger brother. She looks forward to guiding delegates at VMUN 2026 and has already begun compiling a list of adjectives for the unfaltering and verbose speeches she will be listening to.
You can contact the Director at disec@vmun.com. Any questions regarding the committee or its debate procedures will be answered by email. Position papers must also be submitted to this address.