United Nations Educational, scientific, and cultural organization
Location: Boswell 220
Topic 1: Repatriation of cultural artifacts from European Museums to their places of origin
Topic 2: Safeguarding of cultural sites in conflict areas
As the preeminent international organization dedicated to promoting peace through traditional “soft power” means emphasizing the role of arts, history, and education, UNESCO seeks to resolve any conflicts that threaten the erosion of diplomacy as a result of cultural disputes between countries. Representing over 194 nations, 12 associate members, and a plethora of non-governmental organizations, UNESCO serves an invaluable role in arbitrating trans-national conflicts by reconciling the increasingly globalized international system with the cultural distinctiveness of each individual nation. As a result, this year’s UNESCO committee will primarily focus on contemporary debates surrounding the repatriation of cultural artifacts to their places of origin and the safeguarding of cultural sites in conflict zones, thus upholding the UN’s stated goals of peace, sustainable development, and human rights.
Director
Chaewon Kang
Kristen is a freshman from Fords, New Jersey double-majoring in Government and Economics. She recently directed general assemblies at WMHSMUN XXXVIII (SIDS) and WMIDMUN XXIII (DISEC). Outside of IRC, Kristen is involved in the James Monroe Scholars program, Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM), and Random Acts of Kindness Club. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, watching hockey, and visiting the sheep of Colonial Williamsburg.