WHO Committee Guide: Healthcare in Conflict Zones

Index:
1. Letter form the secretary general
Index
Letter from the Secretary General……………………………………………………………. 3
Letter from the Under Secretary General……………………………………………………. 5
Letter from the Committee Chair…………………………………………………………….. 6
Introduction to the Committee…………………………………………………...…………… 8
Introduction to the Topic…………………………………………………………….…..…… 10
History of the Topic…………………………………………………………………………… 14
Current Situation…………………………………………………………………………...… 16
QARMAS…………………………………………………………………………………........ 20
Position Paper Requirements………………………………………………………………… 21
Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………...……… 23
Letter from the Secretary General
Dear delegates, Faculty advisors and others,
First and foremost, welcome to our Markham MUN Conference 2024! My name is Isabella
Campos, and as this year’s Secretary General of Markham MUN it is my utmost pleasure and
honour to be hosting all of you esteemed delegates, faculty members and guests in our school
campus. Along with our faculty advisor, Mr Malanaphy and my fellow secretariat, Xavier,
Bernardo and Esteban, we have worked tirelessly from the beginning of the year to make this
conference happen. We have strived to create an unforgettable experience for each and every one
of you that embodies the spirit of democracy, fosters a space for diverse perspectives and
motivates you to grow through what I am certain will be fruitful debate.
The exceptional experience of being secretary general and planning this conference has been an
invigorating challenge and demanding labour but most of all an absolute honour. As secretary
general, I get to lead the weekly activities which have motivated many of your chairs to reach
their full potential while they undertake deep moral and ethical issues that impact our world
today as well as aspiring to find the most impactful plausible solutions. I have also encouraged
many of your ushers and moderators to grow their interest in this wonderful activity and
integrate themselves into our community. I am beyond proud of the outstanding group filled with
extremely dedicated, creative and collaborative delegates who have driven me every step of the
way.
I would like to continue this letter by formally introducing myself and my love for MUN. I am
currently in S4 and have grown to like history, mathematics and debates. Nevertheless, my
passion for MUN is undoubtedly unmeasurable as it has created the most enriching experiences
of my high school. My peers and faculty have encouraged me to reach my goals, advocate for
injustices and debate vividly every step of the way. I joined this activity as an 11-year-old,
clueless of what it was, how much it would help me and the love I would grow for it. If there’s
one thing I would like to thank for my public speaking abilities and my concern for global issues,
it’s MUN. Above all, I am grateful to MUN as it was through this transformative experience that
I realised my desire to study international affairs and solidified my aspiration to pursue a career
in law. This activity gives you a more comprehensive intersectionality but it also allows you to
share your ideas, voice your concerns and empower yourself. One can be the most capable for
the job, but without being heard you can’t truly make an impact.
My advice for this conference is to enjoy every second of it because time flies and before you
know it you will be at the closing ceremony, or maybe even at your last MUN conference before
you graduate. Don’t dare think twice about approaching another delegate to come up with a great
master plan, raise your placard to participate or make a new friendship in your chaotic breaks
while you draft. Have confidence in your abilities and your growth, even if our conference is
your first, and reach not just for the best delegate gavel but also to be upstanding global citizens
and leave your own impact in our world.
Delegates, best of luck!
Kind regards,
Isabella Campos
Secretary General of Markham MUN
[email protected]
Letter from the Under Secretary General
Dear delegates, faculty advisors and others,
Let me be the second to introduce you all to Markham MUN 2024! My name is Xavier Martinez
and I am Markham College’s Under Secretary General for this year. Since the beginning of this
year, the Markham MUN team has been working day and night to bring this conference to life.
We had to find a balance between training and planning, had to attend meetings, gather chairs,
convince young MUNers to take part as ushers and hardest of all, convince teachers to let us use
their classrooms. Despite all the setbacks and inconveniences thrown our way, we are proud to
have created an experience that you all will hopefully treasure, learn from and enjoy.
Just like Isabella, I am currently in S4 and by the time the conference begins, I will have finished
my IGCSE examinations. I have a deep interest in physics and mathematics which is why I plan
on studying engineering later in life. Apart from this, I am also a musician and have a band of
my own called Lime and Tonic which you can listen to in spotify! Despite my interest in
different activities, the most impactful of all is MUN. Since joining back in 2020, Model UN has
changed my life drastically. My public speaking and negotiation skills have been massively
heightened due to MUN. Even though I do not have the desire to enter a diplomatic career, the
skills and abilities developed at MUN have helped me immensely. No matter what you want to
do in life, MUN has something to offer.
I encourage every single one of you to enjoy this conference, do your best and reach for your
goals but also take time to meet new people, approach them during breaks and create new
friendships. I wish you all the best of luck during this conference and hope you have a great time
debating and discussing just like we had a great time planning it.
Yours Sincerely,
Xavier Martinez
Under Secretary General of Markham MUN
[email protected]
Letter from the Committee Chair
Dear delegates,
I am more than happy welcoming you to the World Health Organization committee of Markham
MUN 2024! My name is Bernardo Quijandria, and I am an S3 student with two years of
experience in Model United Nations and debate. It's my absolute pleasure to be here, guiding you
through what I hope will be an enriching yet challenging experience.
My journey in MUN started back in 2022 when I first joined as part of the marketing team for
Markham, given the task of working on the posters and introduction videos for the conference.
And although I wasn’t given the chance to participate as usher or moderator, I was offered to join
as a spectator. This initial experience gave me a glimpse into the world of MUN, and I was
quickly captivated by the intellectual challenges and the dynamic environment it offered. Since
then, my speaking skills, confidence, and ability to socialise have developed tremendously. MUN
has provided me with countless opportunities to grow not only as a student but also as an
individual, and I hope that you will have a similar experience in this year’s conference.
As your chair for the WHO committee, I expect that we will all come together with one common
goal: to prioritise the preservation of human lives over all other economical and social ambitions.
Our discussions will touch on critical issues related to healthcare in conflict zones, and it is
essential that we keep in mind the moral responsibility we have as global citizens. It is crucial to
remember that behind the statistics, the reports, and the diplomatic language are real people
whose lives are being deeply affected. I urge you to approach this conference with empathy,
determination and a sense of purpose.
In this committee, we will examine the challenges that healthcare systems face in areas affected
by conflict, from the lack of infrastructure to political barriers that restrict aid. We will also
explore potential solutions to ensure that healthcare access is a right, not a privilege for all
civilians. I encourage you to bring forward innovative, realistic, and compassionate solutions that
reflect the urgency of these issues.
Finally, a bit about myself: outside of MUN, I think music plays a huge role in my life. I’ve been
taking the IGCSE course since the start of this year and primarily play violoncello, though I can
also successfully perform a couple of pieces in bass guitar and piano. I’ve been practising cello
ever since 3rd grade, only with a brief pause in the pandemic. In addition to music, I’ve also
attempted to take part in Spanish OEA-type debates, and had the chance to attend the HACIA
conference in Panama 2024. A conference organised by Harvard students, which similarly to
MUN simulates the proceedings of the Organization of American states and focuses mainly on
issues impacting the Americas. I credit the conference as the experience where I really found
myself in the public speaking aspect, allowing me to engage with critical topics in my mother
language with students from across the South American region.
I am truly looking forward to seeing how you engage with the topics at hand and to witnessing
the ideas and debates that will shape this committee.
Best regards,
Bernardo Quijandria
Committee Chair of WHO
[email protected]
Introduction to the Committee:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is the United Nations specialised agency focused on
serving the vulnerable, maintaining global security, and promoting international public health. It
was originally founded on April 7th, 1948, holding its first meeting the 24th of July of the same
year. Many of its staff, assets, and duties derived from the previous League of Nations’ health
committee. The WHO is integral to the United Nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development
goals (SDGs), promoting the preservation of mental and physical health, offering suggestions
and actions to improve overall well-being, investigating each country’s socio-political aspect and
healthcare situations, and improving life expectancy for all.
The United Nations established the WHO to coordinate health affairs within its vast organisation.
Since its foundation, the organisation has been able to collaborate with NGOs, donors,
international agencies, and other UN entities. Initially, WHO focused on supporting health
research, classifying diseases and addressing public health issues. Their early priorities included
combating diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, venereal diseases, and other infectious
illnesses, as well as improving women’s and children’s health, nutrition, and sanitation in all
areas.
Today, WHO’s role extends far beyond these initial tasks, with their role in ensuring global
healthcare access more critical than ever. Conflict disrupts healthcare systems, leaving
vulnerable populations without access to basic medical care, and WHO has been instrumental in
coordinating emergency responses and setting international standards. The organisation works
alongside NGOs, donors, and other UN entities to deliver essential services in war-torn regions.
It mobilises resources quickly to provide trauma care, maternal health services, and mental
health support, addressing both the immediate needs and long-term effects of war on civilian
populations.
One prominent example of WHO’s impact can be seen in its response to the Syrian civil war,
where the healthcare system was decimated by years of fighting. WHO, in partnership with local
authorities and international organisations, established emergency medical hubs, delivered
vaccines to millions of children, and provided mental health support to those traumatised by the
conflict. Despite dangerous conditions, WHO ensured the continued operation of field hospitals
and emergency clinics in Syria’s hardest-hit areas. Another example is in Yemen, where WHO
has worked to address one of the world’s largest cholera outbreaks, exacerbated by ongoing
conflict. In collaboration with local health authorities, WHO supported the deployment of
vaccines and medical supplies, as well as clean water and sanitation efforts, helping to control
the spread of the disease.
Additionally, WHO’s work in South Sudan highlights its broader commitment to healthcare in
conflict zones. Amid the civil war and political instability, WHO has provided life-saving
interventions, including mobile health clinics that deliver maternal and child health services to
displaced populations. In these crisis zones, WHO not only supplies medical equipment and staff
but also strengthens local healthcare infrastructure to ensure long-term resilience. This dual
approach of providing immediate aid while building sustainable healthcare systems is key to
WHO’s strategy in conflict-affected regions.
As conflicts continue to become more complex and protracted, WHO remains at the forefront of
advocating for the protection of healthcare workers and infrastructure. Attacks on hospitals and
medical personnel are increasingly used as tactics of war, and WHO has been vocal in
condemning these violations of international humanitarian law. Through its Health Care in
Danger initiative, WHO tracks and reports attacks on healthcare facilities, working for
accountability and ensuring that healthcare remains a neutral and protected service in conflict
zones. By continuing to collaborate with local governments, international agencies, and NGOs,
WHO strives to guarantee that even in the most dire circumstances, civilians have access to
essential healthcare services.
Introduction to the Topic:
Civilians in conflict zones are among the most vulnerable and severely impacted groups during
times of war. While warfare has been a tragic aspect of human history, it is just in the recent
decades that comprehensive data has been collected to understand the extent of its impact on
non-combatants/civilians. By examining the vulnerabilities and main causes of civilians’
increased risk, the guide aims to explore the possible solutions, actions taken by countries, and
most prominent issues related to non combatants’ safety.
The concept of “Total war”, has blurred significantly the line between combatants and civilians,
with modern conflicts involving nations and non-state organisations targeting civilian
populations deliberately. The risks brought with modern warfare have been steadily increasing,
employing tactics like direct attacks, disruption of services, and blockage of resources
specifically for the endangerment of citizens. Specific blockades in areas of aid for victims of
crossfires become one of the most prominent targets in raidings of cities and towns. Food
sources, medical equipment and staff are strategically displaced to avoid the assistance of the
subjects.
Sanitary issues are particularly significant in rural communities and developing countries at
wartime. The destruction of water and sanitation infrastructure leads to outbreaks of diseases,
parasites among other infections. Cutting the supply of medical supplies, drugs, and equipment
converts health facilities into non functional aid stations, leaving the residents of areas without
medical services for prolonged periods. The restricted access to humanitarian assistance leaves
many vulnerable families and communities to seek for safety in often overcrowded spots, with a
lack of working shelters nearby. Such congested areas often result in poor hygiene practices,
limited supplies of food, and higher risks of diseases.
Civilians often face long-term challenges that extend well beyond the battlefield. Extended
conflicts often lead to the breakdown of essential services, including healthcare, education, and
sanitation. Vulnerable populations, such as women, children, the elderly, and the disabled, are
disproportionately affected by these disruptions, which leave them without access to critical
resources and basic services. The long term psychological trauma inflicted on civilians,
especially children, is another critical issue, as exposure to violence, loss of family members, and
displacement can result in deep psychological damages that persist in an individual's life.
The international community has looked to address the vulnerabilities of civilians in conflict
zones through various legal plans and humanitarian interventions. The Geneva Conventions and
their additional protocols established guidelines for the protection of non combatants,
emphasising the importance of protecting civilians from direct attacks and ensuring access to
humanitarian aid. Despite these efforts, violations of these protections remain frequent, and
enforcement is often weak. International organisations such as the United Nations and NGOs
play a crucial role in monitoring these situations, providing emergency assistance, and actively
supporting the rights of civilians in war torn regions. However, the complexity of modern day
warfare, paired with the involvement of rebel groups and non-state actors, continues to present
significant obstacles in ensuring the safety and well being of civilians during times of conflict.
How civilians are given healthcare access and protection in conflict zones
To protect the civilians caught in zones of conflict, the local state acknowledges the right for
defence of those not identified as combatants. Facing the significant challenges of ensuring the
access to healthcare and shelter becomes the local priority for international organisations, the
government itself and NGOs. Strategies and mechanisms employed for the security of citizens
opt for numerous manners of attending the urgent needs and providing assistance for those
affected or in risk.
One of the primary methods of delivering healthcare in conflict zones is through the use of
mobile clinics and hospitals. These facilities are designed to be quickly developed and set up in
areas where conventional facilities are non functional or non existent as a consequence of the
war. Some organisations notable for their humanitarian collaboration with civilians are the
United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR), Red cross, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), among many other governmental or
independent groups.
One of the most effective ways to deliver healthcare in conflict zones is through mobile clinics
and field hospitals. These facilities can be rapidly deployed in areas where conventional
healthcare infrastructure has been destroyed or is non-existent. Organisations like Médecins Sans
Frontèries and the international committee of the red cross frequently use mobile medical units
to reach those in need. These clinics provide essential services such as trauma care, maternal
health support, and vaccinations, ensuring that even those in remote or dangerous areas have
access to critical healthcare.
Safe zones and humanitarian corridors are established to protect civilians and provide a secure
environment for delivering healthcare. These zones, recognized by international humanitarian
law, allow organisations like the UNHCR and UNICEF to safely deliver medical supplies, food,
and essential services. In some cases, ceasefires are negotiated specifically to allow humanitarian
aid into blocked areas, as seen in parts of Syria. These strategies help reduce civilian casualties
while ensuring that basic healthcare can reach those who are cut off from conventional services.
With the advancement of technology, telemedicine has become a crucial tool in providing
healthcare in conflict zones. In situations where medical professionals cannot physically reach
affected areas, telemedicine allows healthcare workers to consult with doctors remotely,
diagnosing and treating patients via phone, video calls, or other communication tools.
Organisations working in conflict zones utilise this strategy to extend their reach, offering
support to local health workers or directly advising patients. This approach can be particularly
useful in areas where medical staff are short on members, allowing medical conditions to be
addressed without requiring patients or medics to travel.
History of the topic:
The security of people and the availability of healthcare are particularly difficult problems in
conflict areas. Medical service delivery is severely obstructed by population dislocation,
destructure of infrastructure, and intentional attacks on healthcare facilities. In order to maintain
access to healthcare and safeguard people during conflicts, the World Health Organisation is
essential in tackling these issues.
In the period of the Cold War, battles on the grounds of Asia, Africa, and Latin America
emphasised the necessity for stronger strategies in the protection of health care while in conflict
areas. Unfortunately, such efforts to international cooperation were often frustrated by
geopolitical rivalries. The post-colonial conflicts especially experienced in Africa led to major
disruptions within the healthcare systems — demanding that there be a more direct intervention
as well as support from global organisations.
At the end of the 20th century, there emerged an international humanitarian law that was meant
to improve the protection of civilians. The Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions, born
in 1977, reinforced the responsibility to keep civilian populations and medical services safe
during times of conflict..
The establishment of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2002 further strengthened
accountability for war crimes, including attacks on healthcare facilities.
Real-world examples of WHO’s efforts in conflict zones highlight their critical role. In the
Syrian civil war, WHO provided life-saving services to millions of civilians trapped in conflict
zones. The organisation established emergency health centres, delivered vaccines to children,
and supported trauma care in areas where healthcare infrastructure had collapsed. Despite
ongoing attacks on hospitals, WHO's presence ensured that critical healthcare services continued
to operate.
Similarly, in the ongoing Yemen conflict, WHO has led efforts to contain the cholera epidemic,
exacerbated by the war. WHO coordinated the delivery of vaccines, medical supplies, and clean
water, while also supporting emergency healthcare services to address the severe humanitarian
crisis. Without WHO’s interventions, the death toll from preventable diseases would have been
significantly higher.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), WHO has worked to combat a health crisis
worsened by years of conflict, including Ebola outbreaks. WHO’s teams have played a vital role
in containing the spread of the virus, training healthcare workers, and ensuring that medical
services reach displaced populations. These efforts reflect WHO’s ongoing commitment to
addressing healthcare challenges in the world’s most unstable regions, while advocating for
stronger protections for medical services under international law.
Current Situation
Economic barriers
Economic imbalances significantly shape the
ability of nations to effectively address health
crises in conflict zones. The collapse of local
economies during conflicts often results in the
depletion of essential resources, leaving
healthcare systems underfunded and
understaffed. The scarcity of financial
resources restricts the ability to procure necessary medical supplies, maintain healthcare
infrastructure, and ensure that healthcare workers are adequately compensated. Inflation and
disrupted supply chains further heighten these challenges, making it difficult to deliver essential
services to affected populations. Furthermore, the cost of conflict diverts funds away from
healthcare and towards military spendings, prolonging cycles of poverty and limiting access to
life-saving interventions. Addressing these economic challenges requires international
cooperation and financial support to rebuild economies and ensure that healthcare systems in
conflict zones can operate effectively.
Moreover, conflict disrupts employment and income sources, worsening poverty among the
afflicted population. Economic disparities with conflict zones create unequal access to all public
services, including the ones of healthcare. Even if medical facilities are available, many families
can not afford the cost of treatments or transportation to reach healthcare centres. The inequality
is particularly significant and pronounced in rural and marginalised communities, where the
economic burdens leave vulnerable populations without access to live-saving interventions.
These imbalances in the economic aspect not only reduce the capacity of healthcare systems to
function but also prevent affected populations from receiving the care they desperately need.
Political barriers
Political barriers can often be regarded as formidable challenges in delivering healthcare and
humanitarian aid in conflict zones. Governments or the controlling factions may impose
restrictions on the movement of said organisations, either for strategic reasons, or purposes of
cutting back on costs, preventing essential services from reaching the people most in need.
In order for humanitarian work to be effective, there must be neutrality and impartiality upheld.
However, this is undermined when the help becomes politicised and resources are administered
based on the political benefit rather than for the need of people.
International sanctions and diplomatic tensions add another layer of complexity to the barriers.
Sanctions, while often aimed at controlling the actions of oppressive regimes or unethical
practices, can inadvertently prevent aid from reaching civilians in need. Restrictions on financial
transactions or trade can make it difficult for organisations to import medical supplies or fund
local initiatives, leaving populations without vital support. Inefficiency coming from bureaucracy
and a lack of coordination between different levels of government-national, regional, and
local-can also impede the effectiveness of the implementation for health initiatives.
Further aggravating these challenges is inefficiency within governmental structures. Poor
coordination between national, regional, and local governments can slow down or even block the
implementation of health programs. Overlapping responsibilities and weak communication
between different authorities create logistical problems, delaying aid delivery and reducing the
effectiveness of healthcare efforts.
Overcoming these political barriers requires efforts to properly coordinate governmental
institutions with humanitarian organisations or completely depoliticizing aid, ensuring that
human principles are prioritised and upheld.
Social barriers
The social barriers in conflict zones are deeply rooted in cultural, educational, and
developmental disparities, which can vary significantly across countries and regions. These
barriers often manifest themselves as stigma and discrimination against vulnerable populations,
including those affected by disease or conflict-related trauma. In many societies, fear of
judgement and social exclusion prevents individuals from seeking the healthcare they need,
whether due to the stigma associated with certain illnesses or the fear of being targeted for
accessing aid. Gender dynamics further complicate these challenges, as women and children
often face increased vulnerability due to established social and economic barriers and cultural
norms. In some cases, victims of gender-based violence may be unwilling or unable to access
healthcare services due to societal taboos or the threat of punishment. To effectively address
social barriers, there must be a focus on education, community engagement and the
empowerment of marginalised groups. By encouraging an environment of understanding and
inclusivity, these deeply ingrained social barriers can be dismantled, allowing for more equitable
access to healthcare.
In addition to stigma and discrimination, a lack of awareness and education about healthcare
services in conflict zones contributes to social barriers. Many individuals in conflict-affected
areas are not informed about available health resources, preventative measures, or treatment
options. This lack of knowledge is often caused due to poor access to learning, especially in rural
or remote regions. Without adequate health education, people are less likely to seek care early or
understand the importance of interventions, further deepening health crises in these areas.
Another significant social barrier is the breakdown of community networks and support systems
during conflict. When families and communities are displaced, traditional sources of support
such as family members, community leaders, and local health workers may no longer be
accessible. This deconstruction leaves individuals isolated both emotionally and physically,
making it harder for them to seek or receive the help they need. Social isolation can also lead to
increased mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, which are often left untreated due
to the lack of mental health services in conflict zones.
To overcome these social barriers, it is essential to involve local leaders and community
members in healthcare initiatives. Tailoring programs to fit the cultural context and educating
communities about the benefits of healthcare can help bridge the gap between traditional
practices and modern medicine. Additionally, building trust through consistent and transparent
engagement with affected populations is key to breaking down these social barriers and
improving access to healthcare services.
Ethical barriers
Ethical barriers in conflict zones often revolve around the principles of neutrality, impartiality,
and the protection of human rights. Humanitarian organisations must navigate complex ethical
dilemmas, such as whether to negotiate with armed groups to gain access to civilians or how to
allocate limited resources when demand far exceeds supply. Delivering aid in rebel-controlled
regions often require negotiations with armed groups, which could be seen as legitimising their
control. For instance, in the Syrian Civil War, humanitarian organisations have faced the ethical
dilemma of providing aid in areas controlled by different factions. The Assad regime has been
accused of using aid as a weapon by restricting access to humanitarian assistance in areas held by
opposition forces, leading to starvation and lack of medical care. On the other hand, withholding
aid due to these ethical concerns risks the lives of civilians in desperate need. Decisions about
resource allocation-such as prioritising certain populations or regions for aid-often involve
difficult ethical trade-offs, especially when resources are scarce. The ethical challenges increase
when providing aid runs the risk of unintentionally worsening the conflict or endangering aid
workers as targets of violence.
Multiple aid organisations face the decision whether to comply with government demands, which
could alter their neutrality, or refuse and risk further harm to civilians. United Nations Agencies
generally work within the framework of international law and often rely on the host government
approval to operate in a country. And contrary to the U.N organisations, many humanitarian aid
groups such as Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) operate under the principle of impartiality and
neutrality, meaning they provide medical care based on need alone, regardless of political
affiliations.
QARMAS
We strongly recommend you consider the following list of QARMAs (Questions A Resolution
Must Answer) when discussing the topic of healthcare access and protection for civilians in
conflict zones during the conference to ensure a lively and deep discussion.
● What steps can be taken to protect vulnerable populations, such as women and children,
from the health impacts of war?
● What are the primary economic, political, and logistical barriers impeding the delivery of
healthcare and protection to civilians in conflict zones and what strategies can be
implemented to overcome these?
● How can international law be enforced more effectively to ensure the safety and
protection of healthcare facilities, personnel, and non combatants?
● How can countries balance national security concerns with the need to provide
humanitarian aid in conflict-affected areas?
● How can the global community better coordinate the delivery of medical aid to civilians
in regions with ongoing military blockades?
● What role should international organisations play in monitoring and reporting violations
of healthcare protections in war zones?
Position Paper Requirements
Position papers should be submitted within the given deadline. They should not be any longer
than a single page, excluding bibliographies. We expect delegates to submit it as a formal
document that demonstrates knowledge on the topic and the delegation’s stance on the issue; as
well as stating the nation’s proposals to be discussed over the development of the conference.
● Font: Times New Roman 11 pts
● Line Spacing: 1.15
● Pages: 1 page (excluding bibliography)
● Bibliography format: MLA format
● Images are optional for the header but won’t be accepted elsewhere in the document
The documents should additionally include the delegate’s name, educational institute, the
country they represent, the issue to be discussed and the name of the committee. We encourage
delegates to reference their work by including bibliographies and send their position papers
within the deadline, otherwise, they would not be eligible to win a prize. We ask for the
documents to be submitted in PDF form and to be sent via email.
Position papers are documents presented by delegates prior to the conference, and they should
serve to clarify the position of their country or character on the topic being discussed. The
position paper should be divided into three sections of content (not necessarily corresponding to
three paragraphs). The first should put the issue in context, with specific reference to the impact
it has on the delegate’s country or character. The second section should outline the solutions that
have been proposed in the past, both nationally and internationally. The best position papers will
not only detail past actions, but also analyse these with respect to the reasons for their
comparative failure or success. Lastly, the third section should be used to propose new solutions
in accordance with the policy position adopted. The bibliography is mandatory for all position
papers. If one is not included, the whole of the document will be considered plagiarised and an
automatic zero will be awarded - position paper grades count towards award decisions.
Please keep in mind that it is essential to submit a position paper in order to win a prize. Position
papers should be sent in before 11:59 pm on the 22nd of November 2024 to the email address:
[email protected]
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conflict. International Review of the Red Cross, 95(889), pp.167–187.
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3. Kingsley Chukwuka Agbo, Usman Abubakar Haruna, Amos Abimbola Oladunni and
Don Eliseo Lucero-Prisno (2024). Addressing gaps in protection of health workers and
infrastructures in fragile and conflict-affected states in Africa. Discover Health Systems,
3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s44250-024-00106-5.
4. Broussard, G., Rubenstein, L.S., Robinson, C., Maziak, W., Gilbert, S.Z. and DeCamp,
M. (2019). Challenges to ethical obligations and humanitarian principles in conflict
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SCALING HUMANITARIAN INNOVATION. [online] humanitariangrandchallenge.org.
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need to assess the application of humanitarian principles. International Review of the Red
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7. Debarre, A. (2018). Hard to Reach: Providing Healthcare in Armed Conflict. [online]
www.ipinst.org. Available at:
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