From November 9th to 11th, 2018, delegates throughout the United States traveled to Rhode Island to attend the 22nd session of the Brown University Simulation of the United Nations (BUSUN). With an annual theme of “promoting vital dialogue”, delegates were challenged to come up with unique solutions to global health issues that approached Sustainable Development Goal 3: “to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.”
By 6:30 PM, faculty advisors and delegates began to pour into Salomon Hall for Opening Ceremonies. Keynote speaker Dr. Adam Levine, Director for the Humanitarian Innovation Initiative at Brown University, spoke about his experience in responding to humanitarian crises throughout the world. Having led research in regions such as Asia and Africa, Dr. Levine’s unique perspective enabled him to discuss the challenges involved with the delivery of humanitarian assistance as well as the future of responses to global health issues. Secretaries-General Colette Bare and Jourdan Smithwick followed Dr. Levine’s presentation by calling BUSUN XXII into session.
Keynote speaker Dr. Adam Levine at Opening Ceremonies
After Opening Ceremonies, delegates entered their committees for the first session of the conference. With a total of 37 committees, this year’s BUSUN offered a wide array of General Assemblies, Specialized Committees, and Crisis Committees. From cryptocurrency regulation in the European Union to the Algerian War of Independence in the National Liberation Front, delegates had the opportunity to debate a set of diverse issues from both present and past.
Delegates completing their working papers in an unmoderated caucus
Outside of committee sessions, delegates had a wide range of activities to choose from. Prior to Opening Ceremonies, delegates could attend workshops to learn about the structure of Crisis Committees or advanced parliamentary procedure. For prospective delegates, the BUSUN Secretariat not only provided delegates with campus tours of Brown University but also the chance to experience classes relating to international relations. Finally, by the end of the second day, delegates were invited to “A Night at Brown,” BUSUN’s annual social with music, photobooths, and games for delegates to enjoy.
Delegates participating in the delegate dance at “A Night at Brown”
At the end of committees’ final sessions, delegations gathered once more at Salomon Hall for Closing Ceremonies. Before chairs spoke distributed committee awards, Secretaries-General Colette Bare and Jourdan Smithwick took the time to present the Erinn Phelan Award. The Erinn Phelan Award was established in 2011, in honor of former BUSUN Secretary-General Erinn Phelan after she became the victim of a hit-and-run accident. With the goal of promoting women leadership and empowerment, the Erinn Phelan Award is given to delegates that best embody its virtues.
This year, delegates Aliyah Logan and Alice Blackwood received the Erin Phelan Award
With BUSUN XXII gaveled out of session, many delegates left Brown University excited for next year’s iteration of the conference.
