The International Maritime Organization (IMO)
Addressing Maritime Security and Sustainability in International Waters
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The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the UN’s specialized agency responsible for ensuring maritime security and preventing pollution from ships that affects the oceans and the atmosphere. As maritime activity continues to expand and develop, new challenges threaten regional stability and long-term sustainability. In this committee, delegates will come together to address critical concerns in maritime security, environmental protection, and global governance.
Background Guide Coming Soon!
Topic A - Militarization of the South China Sea:
The South China Sea is a critical global hub due to its massive trade structure, natural resources, and military influence. With this route among the world's busiest maritime routes, militarization has intensified regional tensions, increased the risk of conflict, and threatened the stability of international shipping. By debating this topic, delegates will focus on navigating conflicts resulting from maritime militarization. As tensions continue to escalate, the importance of diplomatic solutions and multilateral discussions grows more urgent in order to preserve regional stability and uphold international maritime law.
Topic B - Decarbonization of the Maritime Industry:
The shipping industry is a fundamental driver of global trade, connecting economies by facilitating the movement of goods across international waters. However, its heavy reliance on fossil fuels has made it a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accelerating environmental degradation. As climate change concerns intensify, there is growing pressure to transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. While debating this topic, delegates will work to address the environmental impact of maritime shipping by exploring practical decarbonization solutions while keeping in mind the sustainable, economic, and political factors that may affect the continued efficiency of maritime trade.
Staff
Hasvita Sai
Chair
Hasvita is a third-year data science and statistics major with a minor in history from Valencia, California. She joined UCSB's Model UN in her freshman winter and has loved every second of it. In her free time, she enjoys binging TV shows, finding cute drinks at new cafes, and driving. Outside of MUN, you can find her co-chairing the AS Elections Board or hanging with her AΣK fam. She aspires to attend graduate school for finance somewhere, hopefully not in California (lol). She’s excited to serve as your chair for the IMO committee this fall and hopes you will all enjoy SBI as much as she will preparing for it.
Addy Nguyen
Co-Chair
Addy is a second-year Political Science major from Orange County. She did Model United Nations in high school for all four years, and joined UCSB’s MUN team last fall. She plans to attend law school and become an attorney and international ambassador. In her free time, Addy enjoys spending time with friends and family, thrifting at vintage markets, and eating at new cafés and restaurants. She is thrilled to see thoughtful debate and discussion in IMO this year!