Committee Description

This year’s iteration of the UN Human Rights Office focuses on the critical intersection between human rights and civil society, encouraging delegates to adopt a nuanced approach to understanding how civil society serves as a cornerstone for strengthening democratic institutions and safeguarding individual freedoms. In political science, civil society is broadly defined as organizations and groups that operate independently of government and corporate control. These include a wide range of actors such as independent media organizations, community groups, charities, trade unions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and social or political protest movements. Given the expansive role and influence of civil society, the committee’s subtopics will examine three distinct yet interconnected dimensions. Delegates are encouraged to approach these topics holistically and develop solutions that reflect the dynamic and interdependent nature of civil society.

One subtopic explores the essential role of journalism, inviting delegates to consider strategies to protect the rights of journalists and uphold freedom of expression. Another examines how civil society groups, particularly trade unions, advocate for marginalized populations and how their influence can be supported and expanded. A third subtopic addresses the challenges faced by NGO and civil society workers in conflict zones, with a focus on ensuring access to legal, medical, and humanitarian support. While each subtopic highlights a different facet of civil society, the overall aim of the committee is to strengthen civil society’s capacity to promote stability, justice, and inclusive development.

The UN Human Rights Office dais looks forward to engaging with all delegates this fall. Delegates are encouraged to undertake detailed and thoughtful research, keeping in mind the complexity and diversity of civil society. Policy proposals should be equally innovative and reflective of the evolving nature of civil society around the world.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Joshua Kertesz at gaecosoc@ssuns.org

Rose Pellaton Cioffi

Chair

Rojina Aliakbarshirazi

Vice-Chair

Rameen Ali

Vice-Chair

Julia Bolan Cambell

Vice-Chair