The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional, political, and economic union of 10 member states in Southeast Asia. With a combined population of over 600 million and area of 4.5 million square kilometers, ASEAN is the fifth largest economy in the world and one of the most important players in the global trading system. ASEAN’s primary objectives are threefold: (1) to accelerate economic growth, social progress, and cultural development; (2) to promote regional peace and stability, respect for justice, and the rule of law; and (3) increase collaboration across a range of economic, social, cultural, technical, scientific, and administrative spheres.
This committee is specifically designed for intermediate and experienced delegates. 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: Democracy in Southeast Asia (Click to show summary)
Democracy refers to the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems. As a form of government, democracy has played a pivotal role in the development of human civilization, helping transform the world from authoritative power structures into popular rule. Today, after a period of increased democratization, many democracies around the world are experiencing democratic backsliding. Southeast Asia, in particular, has regressed in the past two decades from one of the world’s largest and most economically dynamic democracies into one of extreme democratic regression. As such, ASEAN’s efforts to reinforce democratic values will not only hold the potential to impact the region’s stability and prosperity but also the broader global political landscape at large.
Topic B: Piracy in the Strait of Malacca (Click to show summary)
Stretching 800 kilometres from the westernmost corner of Malaysia to the tip of Indonesia’s Bintan Island, the Strait of Malacca is among the world’s narrowest, busiest, and most important waterways. It serves as a critical trade route for countries in Southeast Asia and beyond, accounting for over a third of the world’s total marine commerce. In recent years, piracy in the Strait of Malacca has risen sharply; economic hardship and ecological degradation near coastal communities have pushed many into embracing the path of this criminal activity. Given the strategic significance of the waterway, the implications of rising piracy incidents are far-reaching. Beyond the immediate threat posed to the safety of crew members and their cargo, there also exists the risk of widespread supply-trade disruptions, thus negatively impacting an already fragile system of regional and international trade.
Jimmy Wang | Director
A Grade 12 student at Southpointe, Jimmy is distinctly honoured to serve as the director of ASEAN. Ever since attending his first conference at the start of Grade 8, Jimmy has been deeply immersed within the whirlwind of enriching experiences offered by Model United Nations—from political discourse to policy debate to international relations. Outside of MUN, Jimmy can be spotted intensely following the NBA, binging another anime series (recommendations needed), or hanging out with friends. Jimmy eagerly anticipates VMUN and a weekend of diplomacy!
Marin Jensen | Chair
Marin is entering her final year at Rockridge Secondary School. She is passionate about Model UN and watching delegates grow, developing their knowledge of interesting international issues, the role of the United Nations in world conflicts and public speaking skills. Outside of Model UN, Marin is an avid skier, sailor, swimmer, field hockey player, and is working to become a lifeguard. She enjoys spending time with friends and family and walking her two golden retrievers. Marin is enthusiastic about this iteration of VMUN.
You can contact the Director at asean@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.