3rd Social Cultural Humanitarian (3rd SCH)

Topic Update!

Download the topic update (pdf)

3rd Social, Cultural, Humanitarian (SCH)
Chair: Joey Donaldson
3rdSCH@bruinmun.org

 
Dear Esteemed Delegates,

 
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to BruinMUN 2011’s 3^rd SCH!  My name is Joey Donaldson and I am honored to be your committee’ chair for BruinMUN 2011.  First of all, I would like to introduce myself to all my future delegates.  I am from the Sacramento suburb of Elk Grove – meaning that I am a proud native of Northern California (and yes, our infamous phrase “hella” will be used in committee and I would look highly upon delegates using it themselves).  A part from my hometown, I am a Junior at UCLA studying History and Political Science.  Upon graduation, I hope to volunteer abroad with an organization such as World Teach or the Peace Corps.  After this chapter of my life is complete, I will attend law school in which I will study either international or constitutional law.  Unlike all of my future delegates, I did not participate in MUN in high school due to the fact that my school didn’t offer it.  Here at UCLA, I have been a part of Model United Nations since I was a freshman and have been active in all facets of the organization.  I currently hold the position of Director of Internal Relations for UCLA Model United nations.  Aside from academics and Model UN, I am a brother in Sigma Pi Fraternity as well as a delegate for UCLA’s Interfraternity Council (IFC).  During my spare time though, I enjoy playing music as I can play both acoustic and bass guitar.  I also enjoy going to Venice Beach every chance I can get and simply enjoying the sublime atmosphere that UCLA has to offer.

 
When you walk into 3^rd SCH, you will be presented with two issues of great importance: whaling in Japan and the effects of climate change on indigenous people in South America.  The first issue is very unique as it combines conflicting cultural sentiments and humanitarian efforts surrounding the Japanese people.  While critics justify the end of the practice with reasons such as the extinction of a rare species and violations of the International Whaling Commission, Japanese fishers argue that the West is infringing upon their long standing cultural traditions because of cultural difference among countries.  The second issue deals with an entirely different manner.  We have all become aware of the growing concern of climate change and how it affects our world’s future.  However, this issue holds even greater resonance for South America.  Changing weather patterns have dramatically interfered with traditional food-growing and gather method, as well as water supplies.  Although both of these issues are divergent in terms of substance, both of which embody the goals of the 3^rd SCH and ultimately the United Nations at large. I am excited to see the constructive debate and creative solutions that will occur amongst you delegates.

 
If you have any question, concerns, or just want to introduce yourself informally before the conference begins, please do not hesitate to contact me.  I always enjoy meeting new and exciting people that share a passion for Model UN.  I cannot wait to see all of you the first day of committee and see what fantastic ideas you have for debate.  I hope your experience at BruinMUN 2011 will be an unforgettable experience and truly enjoy yourself at UCLA!

 
Sincerely,

Joey Donaldson

3^rd SCH, Chair

Topics

Download Topic Synopsis! (pdf) Updated June 1. Document is password protected.

Topic A: Whaling in Japan:
The onset of the 20th century brought about staunch opposition to Whaling in Japan, even though it has existed since the 12th century. While critics justify the end of the practice with reasons such as the extinction of a rare species and violations of the International Whaling Commission, Japanese fishers argue that the West is infringing upon their long standing cultural traditions because of cultural difference among countries. Issues of cultural sovereignty, international regulations regarding whaling, humanitarian efforts regarding extinct species, and even health issues all play an integral role in resolving this issue.

Topic B:> Effects of Climate Change on indigenous people in South America:
Although the world has already begun experiencing the effects of climate change, the indigenous people of South America have been hit hard. Changing weather patterns have dramatically interfered with traditional food-growing and gather method, as well as water supplies. Many indigenous communities find it difficult to adapt in a culturally sustainable manner. Debate and resolutions should aim to rebuild the infrastructure of these people, as well providing vital instruction that can augment the traditional methods of these people in hopes of combating the effects of climate change.