Group of 77
Committee description:
INTERMEDIATE COMMITTEE
Welcome (double) delegates to DISEC, the Disarmament and International Security Committee! DISEC is one of the central committees within the United Nations, addressing issues related to disarmament and global security, as the name suggests. The committee serves as a platform where member states discuss the proliferation of weapons and the challenges posed by emerging security threats in a rapidly changing world. I hope we can engage in productive and meaningful debate while considering the needs and goals of the countries you represent. As the world feels increasingly unstable, the importance of your debate in this committee cannot be understated.
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