Group of 77
Committee description:
BEGINNER COMMITTEE
Welcome to the Group of 77 at the United Nations! This committee will aim to promote economic cooperation and infrastructure development in the Global South, collaborating on issues such as trade, finance, and climate change. As a coalition of over 130 developing nations, our goal is to advocate for fairer trade practices, climate justice, and the protection of national sovereignty in the face of globalization, emphasizing international negotiations on sustainable development and economic reform. The chair has spent the past two years on the YMUN secretariat and is thrilled to return for a third year to guide delegates through this committee. The chair is deeply committed to fostering an environment that encourages informed debate, collaborative problem-solving, and the amplification of underrepresented perspectives.
Topic 1: Financing Sustainable Infrastructure Projects in Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
Many Least Developed Countries (LDCs) face critical infrastructure gaps that hinder economic development and the well-being of their populations. These challenges, further compounded by climate vulnerability, rapid urbanization, and limited financial resources, have left many groups vulnerable. Sustainable infrastructure, such as renewable energy systems, resilient transportation networks, and water and sanitation facilities, is essential for achieving long-term development goals. However, financing these projects remains a significant challenge due to weak credit ratings, high perceived investment risks, and limited access to international capital markets. These constraints disproportionately affect rural and marginalized communities, where infrastructure needs are greatest but investment is least likely to occur. Delegates will consider how international organizations, including the UN, can collaborate with city planners and local organizations to improve financial mechanisms to support sustainable infrastructure in LDCs. Solutions may include mobilizing concessional finance, leveraging blended finance models, fostering public-private partnerships, and developing new strategies for urban planning and public transportation.
Topic 2: Strengthening South-South Trade Agreements to Reduce Dependency on Developed Economies
With a large majority of developing countries being economically dependent on trade with developed economies, they are left vulnerable to external shocks, shifting trade policies, and unequal trade terms. This dependency often hinders sustainable development, limiting value-added production and further perpetuating global inequalities. Strengthening South-South trade agreements offers an avenue to more equitable and resilient economic growth for developing countries. These agreements can help diversify markets, build regional supply chains, and promote the exchange of technology and skills. However, barriers such as weak infrastructure, regulatory misalignment, and limited institutional capacity often impede effective implementation. Smaller or more fragile economies struggle to negotiate favorable terms and access to broader trade networks. Delegates will consider how the international community can support the expansion and deepening of South-South trade agreements, through the implementation of technical assistance, capacity building, investment in cross-border infrastructure, and the harmonization of trade regulations. These efforts aim to reduce dependency on developed economies and foster a more balanced and cooperative global trading system.
ABOUT YOUR DIRECTOR:
ABBY ZHENG
Abby (she/her) is a junior in Benjamin Franklin College from Newton, Massachusetts. She is majoring in Architecture and Urban Studies, with a certificate in Chinese Language. She is excited to serve as the USG of Branding for YMUN South Asia! On campus, she is often frequenting Atticus, the Elm, and Willoughbys in search of a good matcha latte. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hanging out with friends, and trying new restaurants around New Haven. She is a true foodie and self-proclaimed food critic. She cannot wait for this year’s conference! Feel free to reach out to her at branding@ymunsouthasia.org