The Public Investment Fund is one of the richest state-owned investment funds with estimated assets under management of USD 925 billion in 2024. The PIF was established in 1971 by Royal Decree M/24, which aimed to consolidate the investments of the Saudi Arabian government. Currently, more than 60 percent of the fund is directed within the country for Saudi business families—many of whom have close ties with the royal family and operate enterprises in the oil industry. However, the fund continues to diversify its plans to improve Saudi Arabia’s global reputation, investing large stakes into booming industries across the world.
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 21, 2025, at 23:59 PST. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide.
Topic A: Megaprojects (Click to show summary)
As the global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions increases, the PIF is looking to diversify their economy away from oil. In their ambitious goal of reshaping their economy, they have begun to create billion-dollar megaprojects as a means to introduce new sectors. Each of these projects require a significant amount of planning to account for their budget due to their sheer scale. However, recently, the PIF has been struggling to continue providing enough funds for the projects. Moreover, recent light of Saudi Arabia’s inhumane treatment of their workforce have driven much-needed migrant workers away, putting a strain on their original plan. As such, if the PIF continues without making any amendments, their megaprojects, and overall economy, are doomed to fail.
Topic B: Expanding Cultural Influence (Click to show summary)
Saudi Arabia is currently going through one of its largest reforms as it embarks on its goal of strengthening their global presence as a nation and in the international market. Managing Saudi Arabia’s vast sovereign wealth fund, the PIF has chosen to expand Saudi Arabia’s cultural influence by investing in sports and art. Their investments into events such as their football league and large-scale music festivals has caused these industries to rise in popularity on a worldwide scale. Despite these investments seeming to increase their cultural influence, the nation, and the PIF, faces significant backlash for greenwashing and sports washing to artificially bolster their public image. With limited funds and an ambitious goal, the PIF needs to address the allegations and continue its efforts in ensuring the success of Saudi Arabia’s transformation to a world power.
James Wong | Director
A grade 11 student at St. George’s School, James is honoured to serve as the Director of the PIF for this year’s iteration of VMUN. Since joining MUN in grade 8, James has been fascinated by the unique and joyful discussions with other delegates. From entering committee rooms to having fun in the hotel rooms, James has enjoyed the experience that MUN has offered. He has always enjoyed the inclusive atmosphere and hopes to do the same for this committee. Aside from MUN, James can be found spending time building his fantasy teams and exchanging all his players away after believing that percentages do not beat luck. James looks forward to meeting delegates and watching the insightful debate for VMUN 2025.
Christopher Lai | Chair
As a Grade 12 at St. George’s School, Christopher is pleased to serve as the Chair of the PIF at VMUN 2025. Since being introduced to Model UN five years ago, Christopher has been captivated by the passionate debates and collaboration within each conference. Having come a long way in overcoming his trepidation of public speaking, he has grown to gain a greater appreciation for diplomacy and conflict resolution on the international stage. Beyond the committee room, Christopher can be found playing a sport on the ice or on the water, working on various projects in his backyard, or procrastinating his schoolwork. Christopher looks forward to an exciting weekend with enthralling debate and hopes delegates will have an unforgettable experience at VMUN 2025.
William Hou | Assistant Director
Entering his final year at St. George’s School, William is very excited to serve as the Assistant Director of the PIF. While his first experience of MUN was behind the lens of a camera, the intricate debates surrounding public policy drew his interest to engage further with the MUN scene. Beyond the committee rooms, William can be found supporting his favourite Premier League team, Arsenal. In his words, “I love football,” and cheering for his team and laughing at United has been a constant joy. Additionally, he enjoys golfing or playing poker with his friends. While he knows that eras come to an end, William wishes everyone the best and looks forward to meeting you all at VMUN 2025.
You can contact the Director at pif@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.