The United Nations Children’s Fund is an international organization that works to promote and protect the rights and well-being of children worldwide. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates under key principles outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. These objectives include: (1) Child Survival and Development; (2) Basic Education and Gender Equality; (3) HIV/AIDS; (4) Child Protection; and (5) Policy Advocacy and Partnerships. UNICEF approaches these goals through 20 different divisions including the UNICEF Division of Data Monitoring, the Emergency Response Team, international policy advocacy branches, and many more. The scope of UNICEF’s objectives has been far reaching, establishing involvement in over 190 countries and directly engaging with an estimated 7 million children worldwide.
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 27, 2025, at 11:59 pm. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide.
Topic A: Preventing Child Marriage (Click to show summary)
Child marriage is defined as any formal marriage or informal union involving a person under the age of 18. The practice affects millions globally, with 12 million girls married each year. Child marriage is rooted in poverty, gender inequality, cultural traditions, and lack of education, leading to significant risks such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, and health complications from early pregnancy. While global child marriage rates have declined, the practice remains prevalent, especially in the least developed countries, where little has been done to prevent such unions. Moreover, child marriage is not exclusive to developing countries—the minimum age of marriage in England and Wales was only raised to 18 in 2023. Addressing this issue of child marriage is crucial for safeguarding the rights and futures of children across the globe.
Topic B: Expanding Access to Childhood Vaccination (Click to show summary)
Each year, 4 million deaths across the globe are prevented by childhood vaccination campaigns. Despite existing national immunization programs, around 20 percent of children born annually lack access to essential vaccines, with the disparity most severe in developing countries and rural areas. The inequity in vaccine distribution is exacerbated by economic constraints, vaccine nationalism, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed significant disparities in global vaccine distribution, highlighting the challenges of equal access to immunization amidst vaccine nationalism and hoarding. Wealthier nations secured vaccines early, leaving developing countries with limited access. Inadequate healthcare infrastructure, economic constraints, and vaccine hesitancy further exacerbate the issue, leading to preventable diseases claiming countless young lives.
Mary Lu | Director
A Grade 11 student attending Rockridge Secondary, Mary is honored to serve as a Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund at VMUN 2025. Mary began her Model UN journey in Grade 9 at the insistence of her upperclassmen, and discovered her interest in global issues and public speaking through her shaky first speech. Since then, she has created unforgettable memories with each conference attended, and forged meaningful friendships with amazing people. Outside of MUN, Mary can be found rereading her favorite 551-chapter web novel, playing video games, practicing the violin, or agonizing over math. Mary is excited to meet everyone and looks forward to a weekend of productive committee sessions!
Fiona Xing | Chair
A Grade 12 student at Crofton House School, Fiona is extremely thrilled to serve as the Chair of the United Nations Children’s Fund at this year’s iteration of VMUN 2025. Since beginning her Model United Nations journey two years ago as a confident yet deeply confused delegate, she has since learned the proper Rules of Procedure and to raise her placard only after the Dais team says, “now.” Her love for these invigorating debate-filled conferences grows exponentially with each one she attends. Outside of Model UN, Fiona can be found on highways at ungodly hours of the night, indulging in ice cream after every meal, and scribbling in her journal. She hopes that the experiences gained from this conference will be incredibly memorable for all who attend.
Sin Li | Assistant Director
Currently in Grade 11 at Semiahmoo Secondary, Sin Li first became involved in Model United Nations through his participation in his school’s debate club. His first conference in grade eight where he represented Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, made him fall in love with the constant debate, discussion, and socialization that is unique to MUN. Although his historical knowledge is not extensive, Sin is particularly drawn to the complexities of international politics that can be seen within MUN committees. Beyond his passion for Model United Nations, Sin loves to listen to music, follow esports and Formula 1, and occasionally will dabble in gaming himself. He is always open to friendly conversations with delegates, especially over cafes and cafe recommendations, and is ecstatic to serve as Assistant Director for the United Nations Children’s Fund at VMUN 2025!
You can contact the Director at unicef@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.