Presently, the world is in a stateof instability, insecurity, for some even chaos. We are confronted withalarming news every day, as we learn about terrorist attacks in Berlin orDamascus, shootings in the United States, suicide bombings in Baghdad. Thoughconvinced of the positive role the United Nations should play as peacekeeperand peacemaker, we are shocked by its inability to counter the impendingchallenges we are all facing.
The UN was built on the belief in acommon human identity, defined by the right to enjoy a life of security, feedone's family, have shelter, and to be properly clothed. This collectiveidentity is the uniting factor in our endeavor to seek stability. Satisfyingthese basic human needs is the prerequisite for peaceful cooperation amongstpeoples and nations. Therefore, we call upon the United Nations to find ways tocombat these prevailing problems in order to restore global confidence andadvance international cooperation.
Delegates, we have chosen committeetopics that reflect the urgency of this year’s theme. The current crisis in theEurozone is jeopardizing the common currency, threatening economic prosperity,and weakening consensus within the European Union. Diminished trust in Europeanpolitics and declining European influence on the international stage willinevitably further contribute to a sense of instability. Moreover, terroristattacks in Europe and worldwide add to the individual's skepticism in theability of those in power to ensure an environment of security. Attempts tocounter the feeling of insecurity through an increase in surveillance makepeople suspicious of the government’s intentions, while at the same timereminding them of potential threats to their own well-being and security.Ultimately, governments must provide citizens with the sense that their needsmatter, that a common identity remains a common objective. The common identitywe speak of is inclusive – not exclusive; it respects and incorporates therichness of diversity. Consequently, when addressing the question of intangiblecultural heritage, the focus will lie on reassuring societies that traditions,languages, literature and artwork are still valued in a globalized world, andstill an essential facet of our shared heritage both now and in the future.
These two lines of identity – commonneeds and recognition of individual needs – should serve as an approach toproviding stability in a seemingly unstable world. Therefore, we call on you,delegates, to be aware of the interdependence between the global common goodand the common good for your nation when debating the issues at hand. Let yourcountries’, your peoples’ needs be heard and contribute to the process ofseeking stability in an unstable world.
Juliet Reichert, Secretary-General
Katharina Schier, President of the General Assembly
Robert Kamradt, Deputy Secretary-General
Maxwell Hammer, Deputy Secretary-General
