United Nations Security Council
Approximately 15 Delegations - Double Delegate
Welcome to the United Nations Security Council Crisis Committee on the Militarization of the Arctic at ILMUNC XLI! Delegates will be thrust into the rapidly evolving geopolitical tensions as global powers vie for dominance over the Arctic's strategic and resource-rich landscape. With rising military presence, disputes over territorial claims, and environmental concerns, delegates must balance diplomacy, security, with creativity. As national interests collide, each representative must navigate shifting alliances and critical crises, working to prevent the Arctic from becoming a new arena for global conflict.
Dear Delegates,
Welcome to ILMUNC XL! My name is Leanne Griffiths and I’ll be your Crisis Director for the UN Security Council- Militarization of the Arctic. On behalf of me and your staffers, I would like to express how excited we are to welcome you to the conference! I am honored to help guide you through this complex and pressing issue that sits at the intersection of geopolitics, environmental change, and international security.
The Arctic region, long considered a frozen wilderness at the top of the world, has increasingly become a focal point for global powers. Melting ice caps and the opening of new sea routes have not only heightened interest in the Arctic's vast natural resources but have also led to a strategic recalibration by many nations. The region, once regarded as a zone of peace, is now witnessing a growing military presence, with countries vying for control over new shipping lanes, untapped energy reserves, and strategic military positions. The Security Council has a critical role to play in addressing the militarization of the Arctic. As delegates, you will be tasked with navigating the competing interests of Arctic and non-Arctic states, balancing national security concerns with the need to preserve the Arctic as a region of peace, and ensuring that any militarization does not threaten global stability.
In regards to my background information: I’m currently a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences studying Political Science, concentrating in International Relations. Additionally, I intend to minor in French and Legal Studies on the Pre-Law track. I’m also Co Chief of Staff in INTERCOL, the University of Pennsylvania’s collegiate Model UN team. Outside of MUN, I am a member of the Government and Politics Association, Penn Chorale, Kite and Key tour guide society, and a member of a panhellenic sorority. On weekends and after class I can be found taking the beloved trolley into center city to get to Trader Joes on 22nd street, walking the Schuylkill River trail or around Rittenhouse Square, and going on endless dinner dates with friends, thanks to the INSANE food scene here.
Originally from the Princeton area of New Jersey, I thoroughly enjoy my new home-city of Philadelphia (except for the Sixers), and have quickly grown to love attending Penn. Hurrah, Hurrah! I’m incredibly excited to extend a warm welcome to you all at ILMUNC this January.Please feel free to email me or your chair regarding questions about committee. We’ll see you in January!
Leanne Griffiths
Crisis Director, United Nations Security Council – Militarization of the Arctic
leanneg@sas.upenn.edu
Dear Delegates,
I am excited to welcome you to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of ILMUNC! My name is Ceci, and as the co-chair of the Militarization of the Arctic Committee I look forward to guiding you through engaging and impactful discussions that explore various aspects of international peace and security.
Imitating the United Nations Security Council, our UNSC focuses on issues related to international peace and security. Maintaining global stability is a collective effort that relies on both international and regional organizations. As we confront the complexities of military presence in various regions, I look forward to hearing your ideas on how to best regulate and address these activities. In the context of the Militarization of the Arctic, our discussions will be vital in shaping strategies to ensure peace and security in this increasingly contested region.
A little bit about me, I am a senior at Penn studying political science with minors in Spanish, consumer psychology, and data science. I’m from Greenwich, CT, and in my free time I love to go on runs, try new coffee shops, and play with my two golden retrievers. This will be my first conference that I have helped to plan with ILMUNC and hope that you all have an enriching and valuable experience! I am excited to work with you all and see where our committee will go.
Leanne, Alia, and I are all looking forward to working with you in the UNSC committee. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding the committee.
Best,
Cecilia Duncan
Co-Chair, United Nations Security Council – Militarization of the Arctic
cfdunan@sas.upenn.edu
Dear Delegates,
I am excited to welcome you to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) of ILMUNC! My name is Alia Goldstein, and as the chair I look forward to guiding you through engaging and impactful discussions that explore various aspects of international security.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is a pivotal part of the UN system, tasked with maintaining international peace and security. Among other things, the UNSC has the critical authority to impose sanctions and the use of force, and oversee peacekeeping operations. Its decisions are binding on all UN member states, giving it a unique, powerful position in addressing global conflicts and crises. Through facilitation of diplomatic dialogue and coordinated responses, the UNSC aims to prevent escalation of disputes and promote stability worldwide, making it essential for international governance and the maintenance of global order.
A little bit about me, I am a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences studying international relations and public policy. I’m from southern Indiana, and I participated in my high school’s Model UN club all four years. This will be my second conference that I have chaired with ILMUNC and I hope that you all have an enriching and valuable experience! Outside of ILMUNC, I am part of Penn’s competitive Model UN team and am involved in Greek life on campus. I love hiking and thrifting, as well as exploring Philadelphia in my free time.
Leanne, Ceelia, and I are all looking forward to working with you in the UNSC committee. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding the committee.
Alia Goldstein
Chair, United Nations Security Council – Militarization of the Arctic
aliagold@sas.upenn.edu
