The responsibility of an individual is vastlydifferent from what it was in the past, because we operate on a much largerplaying field; we are global citizens, held to account for the globalenvironment we create. As youths, we face an even greater challenge.Inevitably, we will inherit the world we inhabit – with all of its culturalconflicts, ecological catastrophes, and political uncertainties. We aren’t onlyresponsible for the environments we create, but for solving problems we’re borninto. We must play the hand that has been dealt to us.
Consequently, prioritizing young people is themost direct investment for a sustainable future. Whilst the United Nations hastaken actions to protect the rights of children around the world, because ofthe political climate that now surrounds us, these rights are not always thepriority. But they must be. Whilst many of the issues that the UN chooses toaddress are rather temporary in the bigger picture, an investment in the future— in children — lasts forever. Thus, children must be at the focal point of theUN’s efforts.
The 11th annual BERMUN2 Conference aims toestablish a socioeconomic and political platform for children and youths, togive them the tools for change. The topics we have crafted reflect the urgencyof the challenge at hand. These topics are assigned to the appropriate UNagencies, allowing delegates to engage the issues in the most realistic offorums. To begin, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and CulturalOrganization (UNESCO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) will confrontcritical problems that endanger children, as they attack disease and illegalorgan trafficking. Meanwhile, the United Nations Conference on Trade andDevelopment (UNCTAD) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)will focus on establishing a strong social and economic foundation for youths,with particular emphasis on empowering young women. In doing so, we hope toinspire holistic and meaningful debate amongst the BERMUN2 delegates.
Delegates, consider the many freedoms you enjoyas young adults. These are freedoms that not all children are granted. Let usput these children – whose rights have been compromised – on the top of theagenda. It is imperative that we approach the issue with thoughtfulness,empathy, and ingenuity. For the founding ideals of the United Nations areentrusted to us: the future policy makers and leaders of the internationalcommunity, but also the citizens that must eventually live in this community. We must rise to the occasion with vigor.
Bennet Windt, Secretary-General
Marian Bothner, President of the General Assembly
Max Hentges, Deputy Secretary-General
Juliet Reichert, Deputy Secretary-General
