Dear Delegates,
Welcome to the 21st BERMUN2 conference’s SOCHUM committee! I am looking forward to meeting you all and having a good time in February!
While our conference theme, 'Decolonize.', might read to say that the ultimate goal is to reach governmental independence for all member states, the issue is deeper, as many underlying effects persist even after achieving governmental independence. Although “only” 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories remain, many of the Member States formerly under colonial rule will continue to face challenges created by both colonial and post-colonial systems that not only exploit them but have also created lasting effects, including the shaping of societies and divisions. Most prominently, colonial powers have often created or worsened ethnic divides by giving unequal treatment through varied access to power and resources. Therefore, SOCHUM’s topic, “Addressing post-colonial ethnic divides,” will demand that delegates understand how these divisions still influence social relations, economic opportunities, and political stability today and how it is necessary to resolve such disparities and move towards more inclusive and cohesive societies.
On a personal note, I am a ninth grader at the John F. Kennedy School. I have a passion for international and national politics and have always enjoyed debating with others. Outside of the debate room, you may find me playing tennis, practicing cello, with my friends, or at the gym.
I have attended two BALMUN and four BERMUN conferences and have been part of my school's MUN program for almost 3 years. Throughout these experiences, one thing has become crystal clear: MUN can only be what you make of it. Speak up, collaborate, and challenge ideas to gather and remember rewarding experiences.
Or, to put it simply:
The more we participate, the more fun we’ll have in debate.
I’m looking forward to seeing you all in February!
Sincerely,
Mattis Möbius
