Based in Washington, D.C., the World Bank is the world’s largest development bank. It supplies loans to developing countries, focusing its efforts on agriculture, urban development, environmental protection, and governance. It works with countries to develop realistic debt-repayment plans as it strives to end poverty and build shared prosperity. Delegates in this mid-sized committee will question the balance of money and power, working to combat poverty and corruption in our world’s peripheral countries.
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 February 1st, 2023, at 23:59 PT. More information about position papers will be found on page 3 of each Background Guide.
Topic A: Diversifying Developing Economies (Click to show summary)
The diversification of an economy evolves a nation from a developing to a developed country. Most developing nations struggle to sustain a wide variety of exports and often rely on a few significant exports to fund their endeavours. These reliant economies are very fragile and are often influenced by the demand for these few exports. Because the economies of developing nations are not as powerful or diversified as complex economies, attempting to diversify a nation’s economy without external support is extremely risky. It could potentially lead to infrastructural weakness and debt, which stem from overextending a developing country’s capabilities. These underdeveloped economies, although fulfilling demands in the international market, impede the speed of development of their nations.
Topic B: Economic Recovery of Conflict Zones (Click to show summary)
Conflict zones are areas where armed conflict has or is likely to occur between parties, although they could also be an area under strong military tension. Conflicts in these areas often destroy infrastructure and weaken the local economy and government. Even as the conflict ends, the damage to the economy is unavoidable and slows reconstruction and development. These effects are especially detrimental to developing nations, as their previously weak economies spiral into a breakdown. The international market also suffers consequences as the warring nations’ main exports will decrease in supply, resulting in skyrocketing prices. The economic recovery of conflict zones could not be more imperative to restoring the economy and infrastructure of post-conflict nations.
Andreas Zhang | Director
Currently in his sophomore year at St George’s School, Andreas is ecstatic to serve as the director of World Bank at VMUN 2023. Ever since making his first speech in an online conference 2 years ago, Andreas has been completely immersed into the atmosphere of Model UN. Whether it is intense placard raising, or dinner out with friends, Model UN has created some of Andreas’s most treasured memories. Outside of the world of Model UN, Andreas can be seen attempting to smash a badminton birdy across the net, struggling to keep his robot together, and watching his drumsticks fly out of his hands while playing. Andreas wishes the delegates all the best in their preparation and can’t wait to see everyone in VMUN 2023!
Chloe Mau | Chair
Chloe Mau is a senior attending Bellarmine Preparatory school in Washington State, and she is beyond honored to serve as Chair of the World Bank for VMUN 2023. Since attending her first conference way back when in middle school, Chloe credits Model UN for entailing some of the most memorable experiences in her high school experience. Everything, from the one-of-a-kind community to the innumerable skills she has attained from being involved in Model UN, Chloe is grateful to have been a part of it all since Day 1. Besides being completely captivated by the global politics of MUN, you can find Chloe snowboarding, messing with her cat, Squid, playing piano, or bouldering! The avid bubble tea fanatic is hopeful to make her last VMUN memorable, not only for herself, but for all attending delegates.
Daniel Zhan | Assistant Director
During his senior year at Semiahmoo Secondary School, Daniel is honoured to serve as the Assistant Director of the World Bank at VMUN 2023. From his first experience as a Model UN delegate, the unique speaking and diplomacy in Model UN has been a top priority. Politics and history are specific interests which spur his intentness in Model UN. From his Model UN journey, he has made unforgettable memories and learned greatly from his involvement. In his free time, Daniel listens to a wide variety of music, binge watches his favourite shows and movies, and reads anything related to politics or current global events.
You can contact the Director at wb@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.