Model UN Conference
Welcome from the Secretary General
Greetings Delegates,
The Boston College High School Model United Nations club cordially invites you to BC High Model United Nations Conference XXXIII on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at our campus in Dorchester, MA.
Our club is mostly student-led, which will be reflected in how we will run BC High Model UN conference XXXIII. Traditionally, our conference has brought together young men and women from across Massachusetts and New England. Our committees are mock versions of National and International organizations ranging from ancient times to the present and even futuristic topics. Our goal is for all delegates to walk out of committees with newfound knowledge and understanding of how the United Nations and other organizations work, by cooperating to resolve global issues.
Participants will engage in discussions with other students with different agendas and beliefs, with the final goal being to pass a resolution. By going through this process, delegates will retain a deeper understanding of the larger issue, while using their skills of negotiation, debate, and public speaking.
We eagerly await your presence and participation in BCHMUNC XXXIII.
With cordial regards from the entire BC High MUN secretariat,
Joachim Arokiaraj ’25
Secretary-General
Boston College High School Model United Nation
2025 Conference Agenda
8 – 8:50 a.m.
- Continental Breakfast: Hajjar Dining Hall
9 – 10:00 a.m.
- Opening Ceremony in Cadigan Gym
- Overview of the Committee Topics
- Welcome Address
Joachim Arokiaraj ’25, 36th Secretary General BC High Model UN - Welcome from the School
Mr. Adam Lewis. P’28, ’30, Principal of Boston College High School - Keynote Speakers
Representatives from Massachusetts Housing & Shelter Alliance (MHSA) - Delegate Reminders
- Introduction of the Committee Chair & Committee Dismissal
10:00 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.
- Morning Committee Sessions
12:10 – 1:00 p.m.
- Lunch in the Student Cafeteria
(Committees will be released for lunch in a staggered manner.)
1 – 3:30 p.m.
- Afternoon Committee Session
3:40 – 4:00 p.m.
- Closing Ceremonies in Cadigan Gym
- A Reflection About Model United Nations
Keynote Speakers
This year BC High Model UN is pleased to welcome our speakers from the Massachusetts Housing & Shelter Alliance (MHSA). MHSA is a nonprofit, public policy advocacy organization dedicated to ending homelessness in Massachusetts.
They collaborate with service providers, policymakers, funders and individuals across Massachusetts to transform the way the Commonwealth responds to homelessness and ensure all of our neighbors have a place to call home.
Contact & Date Information
(Committee preferences/assignment questions)
Conference Chairs
Joachim Arokiaraj ’25
ja.arokiaraj25@students.bchigh.edu
Vedant Agarwall ’25
v.agarwal25@students.bchigh.edu
Director of Finances
Christopher Curran ’25
cj.curran25@students.bchigh.edu
Assistant Director of Finances
William Remley ’25
wf.remley25@students.bchigh.edu
Moderator
Dr. Nicholas Argento, Social Studies Department
argento@bchigh.edu
December 6, 2024
Registration will open.
December 28, 2024
Background Guides are posted
Jan. 15, 2025
Registration and $100 deposit, checks made payable to BC High. Tell us your
committee and country preferences as well as the number delegates that you anticipate
attending. It is better to underestimate than overestimate your delegate totals. Contact
Secretary General Joachim Arokiaraj ’25 with questions:
Secretary General:
Joachim Arokiaraj ’25, ja.arokiaraj25@students.bchigh.edu
Under Secretary General:
Chris Brazeau ’25, cr.brazeau25@students.bchigh.edu
Director of Finances
Chris Curran ’25, cj.curran25@students.bchigh.edu
Assistant Director of Finances
William Remley ’25, wf.remley25@students.bchigh.edu
January 31, 2025
- Delegates totals are fixed on this day. After this date, schools are financially responsible
for the reserved delegate total. Final payments are due. Background guides and country
assignments posted.
February 7, 2025
- Conference Chair Vedant Agarwal ’25 sends moderators committee assignments
v.agarwal25@students.bchigh.edu - Final payment is due to BC High. Make all checks payable to:
BC High 150 Morrissey Blvd. Boston, MA 02125
Attn: Dr. Nick Argento Model UN Moderator
March 1, 2025
- BCHMUM XXXIII – Continental Breakfast served at 8:00 a.m. – Opening Ceremonies at 9:00 a.m.
Meet the 2025 Officers
2025 Committees & Background Guides
Committee background guides posted on December 28, 2024
Conference Position Paper
Preparing a one to two page double spaced position paper is required for all delegates at the conference. We require this to focus everyone’s attention on the committee topics ahead of time. We have found that preparing these promotes more thoughtful discussion. Do not let this requirement impede your decision to attend this conference. We are only trying to make the discussion better.
Committee Levels
A = Advanced
I = Intermediate
B = Beginners
Middle School = Middle School specific
Chair: Lucas Silaj
Co-Chair: Micheal Foster
Grand Crisis Manager: Bill Goodwin
Crisis Director: Rhodes Lee
Download the background guide here.
Description:
The Three Kingdoms of China are at war, and unification of China is far from close. China has been in turmoil and conflict for years now, and now there are three nations left. You, the Shu Dynasty, must find a way to use your strengths to your advantage in order to finally unify China. Use your strengths, skills, and intellect to devise a means of achieving such a goal.
Questions to Consider:
- How will you engage with the other two hostile nations?
- How will you keep your people happy and thriving in this time of conflict?
- How will each of you–individual delegates–use your strengths and positions to uphold your power and the Shu Dynasty’s power, to finally unify China?
Chair: KinYuan Wong
Co-Chair: Jack Fruitkin
Grand Crisis Manager: Bill Goodwin
Crisis Director: Jayden Ng
Description:
Following the fall of the great Han Dynasty, three different kingdoms rose from the ashes. As the Wei Kingdom, we are the rightful successors to the preceding Han Dynasty, as declared by the Mandate of Heaven. Although they have fabricated claims to our lands, the Shu and the Wu Kingdoms are simple pretenders to the throne of China. Border disputes have brought tensions between the three kingdoms to a boil. Will we, the Wei Dynasty, go for peace, or battle?
Questions to Consider:
- How will the Wei Kingdom deal with the two other pretending kingdoms?
- How can we enforce peace if at all possible?
- How will we keep our subjects happy and our kingdom prosperous throughout the conflict to ensure stability?
Chair: Will Remely
Co-Chair: Ned Kiely
Grand Crisis Manager: Bill Goodwin
Crisis Director: Junior Martins
Description:
For years now chaos has ruled China. With the fall of the Han Dynasty, dozens of warlords began to fight for power in an ever evolving set of alliances and rivalries. Now these warring states have coalesced into three kingdoms: the Wu, the Wei, and the Shu. Though all three dynasties claim to be the successors to the Han, none has more right to the throne than us, the Wu. But even with our rightful claim to all of China, the other two kingdoms still pose a threat to us. Border tensions have grown in the recent months so now is the time to act.
Questions to Consider:
- How will you work with the other members of the Wu court to deal with the other two dynasties and unify China?
- How will you ensure internal stability within Wu?
- How will each of you maintain your own power within Wu while protecting it from outside forces?
Chair: Michael Roosevelt
Co-Chair: Evan Concannon
Description: A major event from History has just occurred. A crisis meeting has been called with prominent figures to resolve the issue. The event has been brought to global attention, with foreign nations watching the response from the United States. A resolution is needed to establish peace, while also confronting the issue swiftly. Delegates do not know which of the 12 major events they are dealing with beforehand. These events range from the Watergate Scandal in 1972, to the War in Ukraine. Delegates will have to deal with unpredictable scenarios, and hold the future of America in their hands.
Questions to consider
- What is the root cause of this discord?
- What is an effective immediate response?
- Can we build a path to assure more civility within the population?
*This is not a crisis committee, it is simply the term used to describe this time period
Chair: Madoc Robinson
Co-Chair: Jack Fanning
Description: This Financial Crisis Committee will center upon the 2008 financial risks that lead to the collapse of the U.S. economy in September 2008. We will consider the time frame immediately moving forward from the collapse. We will seek solutions from members of the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGO’s), and the federal government. This committee seeks to implement restrictions and prevention of future financial crises. This committee will discuss financial reform and whether to rescue or not bail out the banks, other financial institutions such as Lehman Brothers, as well as manufacturers such as General Motors. This committee will discuss the financial future of the world and how to weed out corruption
Questions to Consider:
- How do we deal with the banks and the recovery of the economy?
- How do you regulate banks and financial instruments?
- How do you ensure currency and banks are fair?
Chair: Chris Brazau
Co-Chair: Evan Welsh
Description: The Israel-Palestine Crisis committee will simulate a “real-time” emergency debate focused on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Delegates will take on roles of both Middle Eastern and International powers to try and resolve and mitigate further conflicts. This committee will address urgent issues such as territorial disputes, humanitarian crises, security concerns, and potential solutions for peace. Delegates must be prepared to engage in fast-paced negotiations, balancing national interests, and explore new conflict resolutions all in the midst of ongoing crises that will be put on their shoulders. This committee will challenge participants to think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate under pressure as they seek to facilitate realistic solutions. Delegates will be expected to act respectfully at all times and refrain from the use of any anti-semetic, racist, or hurtful comments.
Questions to Consider:
- How can we address the immediate humanitarian needs in Gaza?
- How can we resolve key issues like territory, Jerusalem, and security?
- How can regional powers and the international powers come to a ceasefire?
- What role should international legal bodies play in addressing war crimes?
Chair: Himnish Jindal
Co-Chair: Jayden Goncalves
Description: This committee is set during a time when the Cholas, Pandyas, and Cheras, vie for dominance. However, while these kingdoms are powerful on their own, as external threats challenge them, they are tasked with finding a way to preserve Tamil sovereignty and culture amongst these threats. A popular proposed solution to this issue is the creation of a Tamil Confederation, but in light of the rivalries between the dynasties, also an extremely controversial one. Delegates will be faced with the task of balancing the need for unity between rival dynasties with issues regarding the preservation of regional autonomy, creating a solution that will protect Tamil sovereignty, preserve culture, and ensure prosperity among threats of northern invasions and rising powers.
Questions to Consider:
- How should the Tamil Confederation be governed to ensure that the governance structure enables unity and collective decision-making, but still preserves the sovereignty of each kingdom?
- What should the Tamil Confederation do to address the external threats it faces from northern empires and rising maritime powers? How will these actions ensure both military as well as economic stability for each dynasty?
- What steps can the Tamil Confederation take to preserve Tamil culture and identity, while encouraging collaboration between the dynasties? What can it do to maintain this in external relations?
Chair: Tate Lonsdale
Co-Chair: Tyler Senat
Description: Hello MP’s! With the clean energy revolution and the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), the world has grown increasingly reliant on China for its supply of Rare Earth Elements (REEs), used for everything from skyscraper tall wind turbines to the batteries that power solar grids and cars. Unfortunately, China has proven to be an enemy of NATO and its allies. As a result, many nations look to Canada, with its vast REE deposits, to provide stability and raw materials should China halt export. Within Canada however, a growing movement of Indigenous peoples see these existing and proposed mines as an encroachment on their sacred lands, and worry about ecological devastation caused by toxic runoff and heavy machinery.
Questions to Consider:
- How will you balance the demands of NATO with the rights of Canada’s Indigenous peoples?
- How will you help protect NATO supply chains during future global conflict?
- How will you ensure that the Indigenous peoples of Canada are fairly treated under these new systems?
Chair: Christain Velez
Co-Chair: Jay Remly
Description: The Mass and Cass Homelessness Crisis Committee is tasked with addressing the intersection of homelessness, public health, and urban safety, focusing on the situation in Boston’s Mass and Cass area. Delegates will explore the causes and consequences of homelessness, including housing insecurity, substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and systemic inequities. This committee aims to develop sustainable, humane and innovative solutions that balance the rights of unhoused individuals with the concerns of local communities and businesses. Delegates will consider international best practices, local governance strategies, and public-private partnerships to address this urgent urban crisis.
Questions to consider:
- How can local and state governments collaborate to implement effective and sustainable solutions for the homelessness, particularly high-need areas like Mass and Cass?
- What role should public health initiatives, such as harm reduction programs and mental health services play in addressing the homelessness crisis?
- How can policymakers balance the immediate need to maintain public safety with the long-term goal of ensuring dignity and rights for individuals experiencing homelessness?
Chair: Patrick Kelly
Co-Chair: Calvin Flaherty
Description: As the world gathers in Los Angeles to celebrate the spirit of competition and unity, the issue of Performance-Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) continues to challenge the integrity and fairness of international sports. Balancing the advancements of modern medicine with the ethical implications of competitive fairness, the committee is tasked with determining the boundaries of this growing asset, with the fate of global athletics in their hands.
Questions to Consider:
- How can we ensure a level playing field while respecting athletes’ health and rights?
- What role should global regulatory bodies play combating doping, and how can they collaborate with nations to foster clean sports?
- Should PEDs remain in athletics to optimize performance and increase entertainment?
- Should PEDs be accessible to athletes from all countries?
Chair: Max Achab
Co-Chair: Micheal Carrol
Description: A rapid influx of refugees, particularly Middle Eastern women, have been seen across the United States and the entire world. Recent laws, especially instituted by the Taliban in Afghanistan, have silenced the voices of women in Middle Eastern society. A number of laws such as the banning of women from speaking in public, dressing how they like.
Questions to Consider:
- What legislature has your nation passed to protect refugees?
- How has your nation handled refugees historically?
- What solutions do you think will be useful to both your nation and to the refugees?
Chair: David Fleurme
Co-Chair: Luca Buccini
Description: The topic at hand is whether or not the new Jurassic Park should be opened to the public? Should it be used only for scientific research? Or should it be opened at all? The committee will address the ethical, financial and legal ramifications of reanimating dinosaurs, monetizing the park, and selling merchandise related to the opening of the new Jurassic Park.
Questions to Consider:
- What is your delegation’s stance on the reanimation of dinosaurs as a whole?
- Do you benefit from the opening of the park and how does that affect your stance on the issue?
- What are the ethical and social issues to consider?
Chair: Elijah Lamousnery
Co-Chair: Artem Pagliuca
Description: This committee seeks to explore the ever-evolving role of the Jedi Order within the Galactic Republic during the Clone Wars. Traditionally viewed as peacekeepers, the Jedi have become deeply involved in the Galactic Republic’s political and military affairs. As generals leading the Republic’s armies, advisors to the Supreme Chancellor, and guardians of galactic peace, their influence has grown—but so too have the ethical and practical challenges they face. Delegates in this committee will debate whether the Jedi’s increasing involvement compromises their core values of neutrality, while also exploring the Republic’s reliance on their guidance. The decisions made here will shape the Jedi’s legacy and the future of the Republic.
Questions to consider:
- Should the Jedi take on military leadership roles?
- Do their spiritual beliefs conflict with their political duties?
- Is their involvement in the Clone Wars compromising their integrity and the trust of the galaxy?
Grammys Voting Council (Beginner)
Chair: Dante Minacapelli
Co chair: Aaron Dargie
Description: The 67th Annual Grammy Awards Voting Council is an Exciting committee where delegates will take on the role of members of the Recording Academy’s Voting team. Voters will hold different backgrounds of musical expertise and debate on their choice for the 2025’s winners of “Song of the Year” and “Album of the Year.” Additionally, voters will look back on Grammy voting procedures of the past, along with the controversies and inequalities surrounding outcomes, in order to make the best choices for this year’s winners recognizing the art and the process it took to get there. Aside from choosing the two winning awards, the goal of this committee is to debate on reforms in the voting process that will allow for more unanimous, fairer decisions.
Questions to consider:
- What defines a fair outcome in the Grammys voting process?
- Does the current voting system allow for collective decision making and a true focus on the artistic process?
Chair: Christopher Curran
Co-Chair: Aidan Tyne
Description: The Senate Gun Control Committee focuses on the pressing issue of gun violence and the regulation of firearms within the United States. The committee’s primary objective is to evaluate and propose legislation aimed at reducing gun-related deaths, improving background checks, regulating gun ownership, and addressing the broader public safety concerns surrounding firearm access. Delegates will assume the roles of U.S. Senators, representing various political ideologies and regions, and will engage in vigorous debate to craft comprehensive and balanced policies that address public safety while respecting constitutional rights. Key topics may include assault weapon bans, universal background checks, mental health screenings, concealed carry laws, and gun trafficking prevention. As part of the committee, delegates will collaborate to form coalitions, navigate partisan divides, and ultimately work towards viable solutions that reflect both public concern and constitutional principles. The committee will strive for meaningful progress on this highly divisive issue, with the goal of drafting a legislative framework that balances the needs of national security, public safety, and individual rights.
Questions:
- What are the root causes of the modern-day gun control crisis and what is relevant about the history of the United States when it comes to gun control?
- How have recent gun control policies impacted communities and individuals?
- What are the ethical considerations in addressing gun control, and how can they be balanced with national interests?
- What types of guns should be banned in America and what guns should be kept for self defense?
- How can gun control policies keep communities more secure and safe, while also not going against Amendment II of the Constitution.
Chair: Patrick Reed
Co-Chair: Logan Dinh
Description: UNICEF is the world’s largest humanitarian organization focused on the safety and rights of children. Within this committee, delegates will focus their efforts on child soldiers, and all youth affected by armed conflict. We will explore the many ways in which children are so exploited and abused in war zones, whilst creating solutions to prevent this exploitation and hold accountable those who send children to battle.
Questions:
- What are the root causes and motivations of this crisis?
- How can we write effective legislation, whilst recognizing the plethora of ways in which children become tools of war?
- How can nations create systems to protect child soldiers, when so many of them are unaccounted for?
Chair: Scott Beouy
Co-Chair: Elijah Cincotti
Description: Delegates are tasked with analyzing key issues like labor rights in supply chains, the impacts of automation, and the role of trade unions while also proposing innovative and equitable solutions to foster sustainable economic growth and protect workers dignity worldwide.
Questions to Consider:
- How can the ILO effectively balance the opportunities and challenges posed by technological advancements, such as automation and the gig economy, to ensure fair and inclusive labor practices?
- What strategies can be implemented to strengthen international cooperation and corporate accountability in eradicating forced labor and child labor from global supply chains?
- In what ways can the ILO make sure that its supervisory mechanisms are effective in holding corporations and governments accountable for their actions?
- In our rapidly developing world how can the ILO ensure that the rights of workers are protected against the effects of automation and artificial intelligence?
Chair: Miguel Alamo-Gotera
Co-Chair: August Millon
Description: The ILO Model UN Committee works for social justice and the enhancement of working conditions globally. The representatives of member states are present to discuss some current labor issues: decent wages, safety in the workplace, gender equality, and fight against forced labor. With collaboration and negotiation, the participants write down resolutions that can help them come out of these challenges. This represents the ILO’s mandate to promote decent work and sustained economic growth. This committee is a dynamic platform for discussing the intricacies of global labor policies and creating international cooperation that guarantees dignity and rights for all workers.
Questions to Consider:
- What are the major labor issues in your country, and what policies or programs has it implemented to address the issue?
- How might member states collaborate to ensure that labor standards are respected in global supply chains?
- What should be the role of international cooperation in balancing economic growth with workers’ rights?
Chair: Bruno Andrews Mundo
Co-Chair: Talin Patel
Description: The ILO Model UN Committee works for social justice and the enhancement of working conditions globally. The representatives of member states are present to discuss some current labor issues: decent wages, safety in the workplace, gender equality, and fight against forced labor. With collaboration and negotiation, the participants write down resolutions that can help them come out of these challenges. This represents the ILO’s mandate to promote decent work and sustained economic growth. This committee is a dynamic platform for discussing the intricacies of global labor policies and creating international cooperation that guarantees dignity and rights for all workers.
Questions to Consider:
- What are the major labor issues in your country, and what policies or programs has it implemented to address the issue?
- How might member states collaborate to ensure that labor standards are respected in global supply chains?
- What should be the role of international cooperation in balancing economic growth with workers’ rights?
Awards
Ben Maher was a two-time BC High Model UN Secretary General. He continued his Model UN work in college at Georgetown University. He had and continues to have now, a great love of writing including his work as a journalist with incredible interviews with the Occupy Wall Street protestors in Washington, DC. It is why we named this award after Ben.
A one to two page position paper is required for all participating delegates at the conference. We require this to focus everyone’s attention on the committee topics ahead of time. We have found that preparing these promotes more thoughtful discussion. Do not let this requirement impede your decision to attend this conference. We are only trying to make the discussion better.
Delegates have two choices:
1. Submit the paper one week early to be considered for the Benjamin Maher ’11 Best Paper Award, on February 28, 2024 by emailing the paper to the appropriate BC High Committee Chair. These papers must be properly cited using the MLA format.
OR
2. Bring a hard copy with them to the conference on March 2, 2024.The Committee Chair is happy to help you with the paper. His school email address can be found on the cover page of the background guide.
We thank Catholic Memorial High School and Mr. Vin Bradley for creating the idea for this award.
We name this award after Chris Gidopoulos ’95. Chris was an amazing, award winning Model UN delegate. He continued Model UN at Harvard University. When he passed away unexpectedly in 2013, BC High Model UN decided to name the People’s Choice Award in Chris’ honor.
Given in committee. Austin was a BC High Secretary General who wrote our club’s constitution. He was known as Mr. Model UN. He is currently a global stock analyst who works in the international business world.
History
Founded in 1986, the BC High Model United Nations Club gives students the experience of diplomacy and learning about international issues. The BC High Model United Nations Club engages in an authentic simulation of the United Nations system by learning about the UN system, the skills of debate, compromise, conflict resolution and negotiation. MUN team members have fun learning about the workings of world diplomacy through the lens of current events.
Currently our club has 250 members. Students participation choose their participation levels. There are weekly Wednesday meetings, weekend conferences, or overnight conferences. Some students attend everything while others participate when they are able.
BC High is proud to participate in conferences around the United States. We are also grateful to have hosted some remarkable speakers over the last several years.
Listed are a sample of the exciting opportunities our students have been a part of and wonderful speakers we've hosted:
- St. John’s High School – Shrewsbury Model UN (October)
- Stanford University Model UN–Palo Alto, CA (November)
- College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA (November)
- Vanderbilt University Model UN
- Catholic Memorial High School Model UN (November)
- New York City Visit to the United Nations—tour and interview of a mission rep
- St. John’s Prep— Danvers Model UN (December)
- Seekonk High School (January)
- Yale University Model UN (January)
- North American Invitational Model UN at Georgetown University
- University of Chicago Model UN
- Duke University
- University of Georgia
- Sandwich High Model UN (April)
- Diego Aria
President of the UN Security Council - Quanuquanei Karmue
Executive Director & Co-Founder at Save More Kids - Hon. A. Paul Celluci
US Ambassador to Canada and former Massachusetts Governor - Rick Walsh’02 Special Assistant to the Undersecretary of State
US State Department - Dermott Groome
Chief Prosecutor, The Hague, Netherlands - Congressman Michael Capuano
(D-MA) - John Bird
CIA Analyst Cuban Missile Crisis - Sheryl & Matt
Boston Homeless Shelter - Jared Owen
Massachusetts Recovery Center for Addiction - Gregory LoGerfo’91
US State Department – Acting Principal Deputy Coordinator Bureau of Counterterrosim - Ambassador Linda Thomas Greenfie
Registration
*Registration for BC High Model UN XXXIII is now closed. If you would like to be on the waiting list for the BC High Model UN Conference, please contact Dr. Nick Argento, argento@bchigh.edu
If you elected to make a deposit instead of paying your full delegate balance, please make your final payment by February 7, 2025.