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 22, 2027, at 23:59 PST. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide, on the Delegate Resources Page.
Topic A: Autonomous Weaponry (Click to show summary)
Autonomous weapons systems (AWS) are weapons capable of selecting and engaging targets without direct human intervention. These weapons can range from automated defence systems all the way to fully autonomous munitions that are guided by artificial intelligence. As these weapons continue to be innovated and deployed in modern warfare, questions of whether they align with international law and accountability for unlawful attacks rise. The key concern is that AWS removes meaningful human control from decisions that could impact innocent lives; their unregulated evolution risks lowering the barriers to future armed conflict; and there is also the risk of extending access to dangerous non-state actors. The dangers of not being able to hold such a powerful weapon accountable are what plague the international community.
Topic B: Red Sea Crisis (Click to show summary)
In the latter half of 2023, the Yemeni Houthi movement launched repeated missile, drone, and hijacking attacks against commercial and military shipping in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and much of the Red Sea. They frame their campaign as solidarity with the Palestinian people. Their attacks have disrupted one of the world’s most central trade routes, forcing many shipping companies to reroute to the Cape of Good Hope and other alternative routes, ultimately driving up global shipping costs and threatening food and fuel security for import-dependent countries. As a result, multinational coalitions have conducted retaliatory operations that emphasize freedom of navigation and the enforcement of international maritime law. The most pressing question remains: “How to restore security without creating further conflict?”
Alan Li | Director
If you ask Alan why he loves MUN, he would probably tell you about the alley, his nationalistic flag waving, and frantic directive scribbling during midnight crisis sessions. Entering his Junior year, Alan is ecstatic to serve as the director of the Disarmament and International Security Committee. Since being a victim of a nuclear bombing in grade 8, Alan has been an adept user of auraful intros, an avid enjoyer of Mango Loco, and has made memories that he will treasure for a lifetime. When he isn’t dropping fire intros, you can probably find him exploring nearby McDonald’s, debating on Oyapple, or sidequesting late at night. As the weekend draws to a close, Alan hopes that every delegate will gain something permanent: indelible memories and lifelong friendships.
Annie Lymburner | Chair
Entering her Grade 10 year at Rockridge Secondary School, Annie is excited to combine her love of politics and international law to help make the 26th iteration of VMUN a success! From debating the Yemeni Civil War at her first conference to shakily giving her first speech before 150+ delegates after accidentally applying for VMUN’s largest committee, she quickly fell in love with Model UN. Annie’s favourite moments are when delegates are yelling over each other, demanding Unmod extensions, while the dais fights through a Wi-Fi shutdown. She loves watching strangers become so invested in problems they had never heard of and feeling comfortable enough to give hooks involving rap battles. She hopes to bring that passion, energy, and unpredictability to VMUN, DISEC 2027.
Alina Somani | Assistant Director
Entering her senior year at St. Thomas More Collegiate, Alina is ecstatic to serve as the Assistant Director of DISEC at the 26th iteration of VMUN. Beginning her MUN journey in the tenth grade, Alina has navigated her way through the complex world of MUN to her final current proficiency. Her very first Dais guided her through the intimidating stares and intense speeches, leading her to discover a world of debate, late night snack runs, and last-minute resolutions. Aside from MUN, Alina can often be found reading a book she can’t put down into the late hours of the night, in her living room working on another sketch or henna design, or listening to her favourite music while making her way through piles of work. Alina can’t wait to meet the eager delegates attending VMUN 2027!
Yugo Tsao | Assistant Director
Entering grade 10 at St. George’s School, Yugo is honoured to be serving as your assistant director for DISEC at VMUN 2027. 3 years ago, Yugo’s MUN journey began as a nervous and anxious grade 7 student who didn’t know anything about the world around him. Now he a knows a little more (not really) and will do everything in his power to make sure that this conference is memorable for all delegates in DISEC. Due to his love for socializing, Yugo loves watching all of the engaging debate and fascinating discussions that happen on the conference floor. Outside of the committee you can find Yugo eating whatever looks edible, playing Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, or hanging out with his friends. Yugo cannot wait to make memories with everyone and cannot wait to see all of you at DISEC!
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.