The 8th edition of Lakshmipat Singhania Academy’s Model United Nations (LSA MUN) unfolded from November 23rd to November 25th within the school's premises. Drawing participants from esteemed city schools, including St. James School, Calcutta Boys’ School, Don Bosco Park Circus, Sri Sri Academy, Delhi Public School Newtown, and I.P. Memorial, the event was a spirited battleground of wordplay, wit, and vigour.
A Confluence of Minds
The Chief Guest, Dr. Kunal Sarkar, Vice Chairman of MEDICA SUPER SPECIALITY Hospital and founder trustee of Calcutta Debating Circle, set the tone for the event. Addressing the students, Dr. Sarkar emphasised the need for them to compete not just with each other but with machines in the evolving times. School Director Ma’am Meena Kak and Principal Ma’am Jaya Misra expressed their excitement about the event, highlighting its role in developing leadership skills and fostering negotiation abilities among students.
UNSC (United Nations Security Council)
The United Nations Security Council began with a round of GSL speeches, wherein each member state expressed their views on the Russia-Ukraine crisis. As the impending crisis loomed, each country vehemently expressed its concerns, while some appreciated Russia’s actions. The UN Security Council resumed its second day of GSL speeches, which were subsequently halted to allow for the distribution of the public communiqués, which were either drafted by individual delegates or in conjunction with other delegates. The third day of UNSC began with an update from the Wagner Group heads, who unveiled to the public that they had kidnapped the chairperson of the UNSC. As each delegate aimed to get back the chair, their negotiation skills were tested as they aimed to cut a deal for themselves, while trying to stop the war. In the end, the Pro Russian bloc emerged victorious, bringing an end to the war, and in getting back the chairperson of the committee.
Source: Lakshmipat Singhania Academy
DISEC (Disarmament and International Security of Committee)
The delegates started off the conference rather slow but quickly picked up pace as updates were given. Calm, composed and relaxed speeches in a GSL and Moderated Caucus turned into heated open floors as delegates furiously accused each other of violating international laws. Updates soon followed the American show of force, a ceasefire in Yemen and the opening of the Bab el Mandeb and the interception of Russian convoys carrying chemicals to Iran. Several memorable lines from the committee such as “Remember Qasem Soleimani”, “Tik Tik Boom”, and “You Ripe what you Plough” among others were coined, making this the most memorable day of the conference. The last day was all about the Working Papers as two papers were introduced to the committee. The delegates aggressively debated against each other and eventually managed to get both papers scrapped, ultimately failed.
Source: Lakshmipat Singhania Academy
UNODC (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) witnessed significant achievements, addressing issues from drug cartels targeting Chinese residents to fostering active participation from representatives worldwide. China's public communique triggered a shift in the committee's direction. Despite facing obstacles, the committee demonstrated dynamism and commitment to addressing challenges, reflecting in their proactive approach on the final day.
IPC (International Press Corps)
The International Press Corps (IPC) conference ignited debates on the authenticity of the Chinese Government's aid to Chinese media agencies violating journalism ethics. Updates on popular media houses’s controversial claims unfolded, leading to discussions on forming an external body to monitor global media agencies.
The Closing Ceremony
The Closing Ceremony was an emotional affair, celebrating accomplishments and acknowledging participants. The Secretary General Ronit Dev Chatterjee, after the Prize Distribution Ceremony, officially declared the conference closed, marking the end of Lakshmipat Singhania Academy's Model United Nations 2023. A testament to diplomacy, debate, and camaraderie, the event left an indelible mark on all those who participated, fostering a spirit of global awareness and collaboration among the future leaders of tomorrow.