Welcome to RUMUN 2012!

Dear Advisors, Delegates, and Guests:

On behalf of the Institute for Domestic and International Affairs, I would like to invite you to attend Rutgers Model United Nations 2012.  The conference will be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Brunswick, New Jersey, from November 15th to 18th.  During this four-day simulation of diplomatic dialogue, students will represent various countries and international actors.  They will participate in debate and propose resolutions within their respective committees, highlighting some of the most pressing issues affecting our global community today.  Students will not only have the opportunity to work toward developing their analytical and communication skills, but also widen their perspectives, engaging them as global citizens and allowing them to grow as both students and leaders.

By providing an exciting, professional environment that promotes cooperation and outside learning, RUMUN presents a dynamic experience that reaches beyond the conference itself.  Composed of hardworking Rutgers students, our diverse staff spends a year researching topic briefs, and will be available throughout the conference process to offer guidance and assistance to delegates, helping ensure that they leave with a memorable understanding of international affairs.

At RUMUN 2012, participants will explore the role that population growth plays in many of the world’s most pressing issues.  Titled “Eight Billion Reasons for Change,” the thematic focus deals with issues directly related to exponential population growth and efforts that are complicated by increasing populations.  Today, this overarching issue has placed unique development challenges on state governments.  From resource security and economic instability to various population policies, this theme encompasses issues that challenge participants to enact stopgaps for the short-term while creating sustainable solutions for future generations.  While the 7 billion people already on Earth pose challenges today, these will only be exacerbated as the population continues to grow.  Reaching 7 billion people does not give us a time to panic but instead serves as a call for action.  We are 7 billion people that have 8 billion reasons to change!

To provide a comprehensive educational framework, RUMUN 2012 will have a number of distinctive topics.  Traditional bodies will look to address complicated challenges ranging from the economic ramifications of population aging and the legality of population control measures to the question of Western Sahara and humanitarian aid to Gaza.  Set in 2014, the 21st World Petroleum Congress will address a number of issues related to petroleum and population.  Meanwhile, the Chinese Politboro and Indian Cabinet will debate the state of their respective population growth before coming together to formulate bilateral agreements.  How students debate and compose resolutions within such committees will give valuable insight as to the role of the UN in a global environment strained by exponential population growth.

Registration for RUMUN 2012 will begin May 1 on the IDIA website.  Due to limited space, I strongly encourage you to register as early as possible.  If you have any questions related to the conference or registration process, please do not hesitate to contact us.  We also organize outreach programs in schools, where experienced staff members help students prepare for the conference, and would be more than happy to provide more information.  Whatever your needs, we will always be here to help.  Thank you for your interest in RUMUN 2012, and we hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Drew Woods
Secretary-General
Rutgers Model United Nations 2012