Felsted MUN 2019

MUN Secretary General's Address

Dear Delegates and Advisers,

I would like to personally thank you for choosing - and welcome you to - the 10th Annual Felsted Model United Nations Conference. Whether this is the first time that you are sporting an MUN badge, or if you are a veteran of many conferences, the team of chairs and helpers has been working diligently so as to ensure that you are well-equipped for the spirited debates that are sure to ensue; and to make the whole process of the conference as seamless as possible.

The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’: the twelfth, and certainly one of the most important of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The drive for responsible consumption and production has certainly gained international recognition in recent decades, if not widespread support, but this almost ubiquitous awareness can lead to the assumption that there is also universal action. Indeed, despite the fact that, by 2018, 108 countries already had individual policies and initiatives relevant to sustainable production and development, coal still accounts for 28% of the world’s energy consumption. 

Furthermore, whilst it may be tempting to believe that the goal of sustainable growth and development is relevant only to big businesses and environmentalists, this is a somewhat deceptive fallacy, given that: firstly, sustainable consumption and production concerns not only carbon footprints and greenhouse gases, but also social and economic issues; moreover, even issues which were initially strictly environmental are having an increasing political impact, such as with rising sea levels leading to displaced peoples. The International Organisation on Migration estimates that up to 200 million people could be displaced by climate change by 2050, clearly indicating the socioeconomic offshoot of the equally atrocious environmental effects of irresponsible production. However, this conference aims to raise awareness of these seminal issues, and allow young people to grapple with them in an intellectually inspiring environment. I have every confidence that you and your committee will be able to present fresh and fruitful solutions to these issues that clearly must be addressed.

Having consistently taken part in MUN Conferences for around 6 years, I understand the protocol and appreciate the complexities of it at times, as well as the difficulties of speaking in front of so many people; this can be especially unsettling if it is your first time attending a conference such as this one. However, every single delegate, chair, and member of staff present has experienced this, and we have been working hard to create a cordial environment, and to provide you with the necessary resources to minimise any concerns you may have. If you would like to speak about any of these concerns, or simply have a question, please do not hesitate to contact me; I will do my best to ensure that the Conference proves a constructive and enjoyable two days for everyone in attendance.

I look forward to seeing you at the Felsted MUN.

Yours sincerely,

Elliot Reeve
Model United Nations Secretary General,
Felsted MUN 2019