Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee
Committee description:
INTERMEDIATE COMMITTEE
Welcome to the Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM)! This committee focuses on advancing human rights, addressing humanitarian issues, and promoting global social development. When discussing matters of human dignity and justice, it is imperative to discuss the broader implications of international policy decisions on marginalized populations and vulnerable communities. The director of SOCHUM has previously served as a chair for four YMUN conferences and is excited to continue her role to promote constructive diplomacy, equity, and global awareness. She hopes to encourage delegates to engage in meaningful debate and collaborate on solutions to advocate for a long-lasting humanitarian impact.
Topic 1: Exploring the Impacts of Technology on Education and Digital Inclusion
As Nelson Mandela once profoundly stated, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” In our ever-evolving technological landscape, there has been an increasingly larger implementation of technology in the education sector. While this advance has provided unparalleled opportunities for access to learning resources, it has also simultaneously developed a significant gap in academic opportunities. The digital divide has become a prominent issue as not all students have equal access to the technology necessary for success in today’s educational environment. This divide is influenced by factors such as income, geography, and infrastructure, leaving certain populations at a disadvantage. Delegates will be tasked with addressing these disparities by considering the factors that contribute to equitable access to technology and how that has the potential to enhance educational outcomes.
Topic 2: Ensuring the Rights of Climate Refugees and Displaced Populations
Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing issues of the 21st century; the extensive effects of climate change reach the environment, society, and overall global stability. From destructive weather patterns to rising sea levels, climate change poses a significant threat to human health and livelihood. The harsh effects of climate change disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, who are often least equipped to combat and recover from the effects of climate change. One of the most pivotal challenges faced by vulnerable populations is climate-induced displacement, as communities are driven away from their homes due to increased sea levels, extreme weather, and desertification; displaced communities also often face challenges in accessing basic resources such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare due to limited infrastructure. Delegates will collaborate alongside one another to propose both short-term and long-term proposals to address the complex issue of climate change and its impact on vulnerable populations.
ABOUT YOUR DIRECTOR:
MaDDI BROWN
Maddi Brown (she/her/hers) is a junior in Pierson College, originally from a small town in Wirtz, Virginia. She is majoring in Physics and is excited to be entering her third year with YIRA. Throughout her involvement, Maddi has chaired multiple committees for YMUN in addition to serving as a director for YMUN Dubai II. She is thrilled to continue to be able to continue her involvement by serving as a director for YMUN South Asia. On campus, Maddi is a STARS I peer mentor, a program dedicated to providing guidance for underrepresented first-year students in STEM. Outside of academics, Maddi enjoys exploring new cities, live music and concerts, and trying new foods! With all that being said, she is looking forward to connecting with delegates, hearing their ideas, and fostering engaging discussions during the conference. If you have any questions about YMUN South Asia, Model UN, or anything else, please do not hesitate to contact her at maddi.brown@yale.edu.