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Dear Delegates,
I am thrilled to welcome you to this year’s BERMUN2 Special Political and Decolonization Committee!
This year's BERMUN2 conference theme is “Decolonize.” It is a necessary focus as the effects of colonialism continue to polarize economic disparities, political instability, and power structures. While colonial rule may have ended in many regions, it is essential to recognize that its impact persists through unequal trade systems, exploitative trade relations, border conflicts stemming from inaccurate national boundaries, and lasting societal divisions.
In this year's GA4, we will be discussing the topic “Post-colonial Responsibility for Current Inequalities and Injustices in Africa.” It examines how former colonial powers and the international community have contributed to present-day challenges faced in Africa, such as political instability, economic underdevelopment, exploitation of resources, and social inequality. A lot of the problems stem from governments prioritizing imperial interests over local development and colonial exploitation, leaving behind long-lasting divisions, leading to bloody disputes, like the genocide of the Tutsi by the Hutu in Rwanda. Delegates need to consider the role that multinational corporations play in perpetuating these injustices. A prominent example is Shell, the British-Dutch oil conglomerate that is linked to thousands of oil spills in the Niger Delta, contaminating farmland, rivers, and drinking water. Although there are many multinational corporations like Shell, it is important to recognize the indirect influence that many companies have on the exploitation of Africa. Another one of these companies is Apple. While Apple does not mine cobalt itself, it is heavily reliant on the cobalt from the mines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo to produce batteries for its products, and therefore funds the exploitation of thousands of kids and adults who are forced to work 14-hour shifts, with little to no safety equipment, in unsafe working conditions.
Let's all approach the topic with an open mind, a strong historical understanding of the topic, and a willingness to engage in respectful and fruitful debate.
On a more personal note, I am a 15-year-old freshman at the John F. Kennedy School in Berlin. In my free time, I play soccer and golf, as well as the violin and piano. I speak English, German, and a little bit of Hindi. Occasionally, I enjoy watching soccer, Formula 1, and some international cricket. My favorite soccer team is FC Bayern München, and I think Germany will win the World Cup this year! As for Formula 1, my favorite drivers are Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. My favorite subject is politics because it covers important global and domestic events and topics.
This is my third year as part of my school’s MUN program, my 10th conference, and my second as a chair! I am looking forward to seeing all of you in February!
Jonathan Lugani
