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 tries 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 22nd, 2024, at 23:59 PT. More information about position papers can be found on page 3 of the Background Guide.
Topic A: Weapons of Mass Destruction (Click to show summary)
Weapons of mass destruction have been a primary concern to the international community for decades. Due to their potential to cause detrimental effects, this security concern obligates states and various multilateral organizations to reinforce non-proliferation measures and enhance proper security. However, a proper balance between disarmament efforts and international peace must be established because of the importance that these weapons play in ensuring national security. Collective action and international frameworks will need to be constructed in order to prevent nuclear escalation.
Topic B: Maritime Security in the South China Sea (Click to show summary)
The South China Sea, located near the Western Pacific Ocean, stands as an enigmatic crucible of maritime security, commanding unyielding attention on the global stage. Its lengthy history of overlapping sovereignty claims has created a complex confluence of historical narratives and contemporary exigencies. More recently, natural resource exploitation, aggressive military buildup, and non-claimant states’ interest in maintaining trade in the region have contributed to the multifaceted challenges that plague the region. The differing interests that claimants and extra-regional states have in the South China Sea will necessitate multilateral cooperation and the consideration of both national interests as well as the collective security of this critical maritime domain.
Jessica Wu | Director
A Grade 12 student at Collingwood School, Jessica is ecstatic to be serving as the Director of DISEC at VMUN 2024. Having grown to love both the academic and social aspects of MUN since her first conference in Grade 8 and led by her passion for international affairs and global issues, she has returned time after time. Jessica is looking forward to experiencing yet another conference filled with thought-provoking speeches, hastily-written resolution papers, and endless laughter, but this time, as a member of the dais team. Outside of MUN, Jessica can be found binge-watching Netflix shows, watching sunsets by the beach, or studying frantically at the library with her friends. Jessica can’t wait to meet all the delegates and is looking forward to making VMUN 2024 a memorable experience for everyone!
Jason Yin | Chair
Entering his Grade 12 year at St. George’s School, Jason is honoured to serve as the Chair of the Disarmament and International Security Committee at VMUN 2024. Ever since stepping foot into the intimidating conference room at his first conference in Grade 8, Jason has been captivated by the competitive but collaborative environment of Model UN. From heated discussions during committee sessions to late-night walks with his friends, some of Jason’s fondest memories in high school were created at Model UN. Outside of the enriching world of Model UN, Jason can often be found playing basketball with his friends, complaining about his fitness tasks for tennis, scrolling through online shops for new clothes and shoes, and going to isolated areas to watch the sunset with his friends. Jason is eager to meet all the delegates and wishes everyone the best of luck in their preparation for VMUN 2024!
Jayna Sood | Assistant Director
Currently in her Grade 12 year at Southridge School, Jayna is beyond delighted to be the Assistant Director of DISEC at VMUN 2024. Ever since her first Model UN conference in 2019, she has been enthralled by the world of diplomacy and debate. She has forged lifelong friendships, gained a deeper understanding of international relations, and developed an appreciation for global affairs; MUN has truly been an instrumental part of her high school journey. In her spare time, Jayna can be found with her head in a good book, listening to Hamilton for the thousandth time, or drinking copious amounts of coffee. She is greatly looking forward to meeting all of the delegates and hopes to help create a memorable weekend for all.
Joy Lin | Assistant Director
Joy Lin is a Grade 11 student thrilled to serve as an Assistant Director for the Disarmament and International Security Committee at VMUN 2024. Her passion for Model United Nations stems from her deep curiosity for international news and fascination with global politics. She also loves communicating and making thoughtful debates, and is always happy to help! Beyond diplomatic pursuits, Joy engages in numerous creative hobbies ranging from artistic expressions through drawing and crafting with unique materials, immersing in documentaries and cinematic films, channelling her inner Gordan Ramsay experimenting with the culinary arts, and even just playing with digital software. She loves to explore and is always willing to try something new. Joy hopes to continue contributing to the MUN community and can’t wait to see everyone there!
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.