Letters from the author.
Take a look behind the anecdotes and experiences shaping the issues present at FDR.
General Assembly 1
On the first issue of the General Assembly 1 committee.
To the prospective delegate;
100,000. This is the amount of souls lost due to weapons of mass destruction. This issue is so broad in that the varying perspectives and discourse in the grand committee room may range from a willingness of the delegate to recategorise the very meaning of a WMD, in situations where, say, thermobaric bombs are to be utilised, such as those found in use in Ukraine, a broadening of the UN definition of a WMD would increase the death count as a result of such weapons to the millions, if not tens-of-millions. As such, the magnitude of the issue is greatly inflated.
Another possible perspective on the issue is the obvious MAD, or mutually-assured-destruction, doctrine. A defence of this doctrine would postulate a point of view that I, the author, find quite disturbing. We need to proliferate WMDs to keep safe. If all are equally armed, by rule of inflation, nobody is armed.
This issue really provides food for thought in that the weapons that killed hundreds of thousands are really the weapons that stop conflict that would murder, in cold blood, hundreds of millions.
This committee is for you if you enjoy challenging, and in some ways, morally taxing discussions where you are to balance human lives on your shoulders, with the only dataset being biassed statistics, hypotheticals, and your own conscience.
As the founder of FDR, I have grown very fond of the impact that the project me and my peers have built has had on hundreds of young minds from around the world, and I firmly believe that this committee is a solid next step in building the character of even more individuals, and potentially, even you, the reader.
See you at the conference.
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
General Assembly 1
On the second issue of the General Assembly 1 committee.
To the prospective delegate;
As a Romanian-Egyptian national, this is an issue I hold very dear to myself. I have seen, with my own two eyes, the many plans to privatise the Suez Canal in the past. I have witnessed moments of vulnerability in Egyptian history where the Suez Canal was the only playing chip available to the state apparatus, and the ramifications upon international perception of Egypt.
Today, the Egyptian government is holding negotiations that are more feasible than ever, to privatise the Suez Canal due to the ongoing financial crisis at home.
I really think that the potential privatisation of the canal is a monumental sight to see for our generation; the stretch of water that influenced Egypt’s history for the past 150 years, in the hands of a private corporation.
This issue is very heavy, albeit my personal connection to the topic. Ever since the canal was in function, it always served as an artery of trade, movement and liberty. It also served as an artery of the war apparati of the allies in WW1 and WW2.
Today, ships that are meant for military use freely pass through the canal as a result of the 1956 treaty.
This issue engages your ability to balance out the needs of the international community, trade and the importance that historical treaties and agreements possess.
Mic-drop.
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
General Assembly 3
On the first issue of the General Assembly 3 committee.
To the prospective delegate;
As a Romanian-Egyptian national, I have been privy to the rich amalgamation of cultures, histories, and geopolitical landscapes that these two nations possess. I have witnessed the impact of extrajudicial killings and forced disappearances on the lives of many, particularly those involving international defectors, refugees, and ex-POWs.
I recall a stirring anecdote, on the streets of Assiut, my father’s birth-town, of a man who was once a POW of Israel, during the Yom Kippur War. His stories were a chilling reminder of the realities that many defectors and refugees face.
His struggles were not only confined to the battlefield, but continued long after his release, reminding me, and you, that these issues extend beyond borders and persist longer than conflicts.
The extrajudicial nature of these acts, coupled with the forced disappearances, creates a haunting narrative that is difficult to ignore. As the delegate, you will be challenged to confront this matter, seeking justice for victims and establishing mechanisms to prevent such atrocities.
The diplomatic dynamics of this issue are as intriguing as they are complex. The dialogue you will engage in will test your diplomatic prowess, your ability to negotiate, and your capacity for empathy. Can we, nay, you, find a way to ensure justice is served without infringing on national sovereignty?
With love (for the conference).
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
General Assembly 3
On the second issue of the General Assembly 3 committee.
To the prospective delegate;
As a student at the International School of Bucharest, I have been fortunate to receive (somewhat) quality education, an opportunity that is unfortunately not universal. Having witnessed the stark differences in educational opportunities between Romania and Egypt, I think I quite understand the importance of addressing the issue of child labour and advocating for universal quality education.
Here, a memory of me, as a child, walking through the bustling streets of Cairo, crops up. Seeing young children selling trinkets instead of holding textbooks, with their innocence overshadowed by the weight of economic hardship. It's a sight that is etched quite sharply in my mind and I believe contributed to my insistence on the inclusion of the issue.
I was reeeeelatively young, so it was so incredibly jarring to see my parallel; children my age or younger, toiling away on the dusty streets of Heliopolis.
This is more than numbers and statistics. It is about the dreams of millions of children, their right to education, and their hopes for a better future. As the delegate, you will be tasked with finding solutions that not only combat child labour but also create an environment conducive to quality education for all.
You’ll be faced with the challenge of balancing economic realities with the idealistic goal of universal education. Is it possible to build a world where every child is in school?
Not creative enough to think of a closing for this.
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
General Assembly 4
On the first issue of the General Assembly 4 committee.
To the prospective delegate.
Ah, the sweet scent of croissants and the enchanting streets of Paris. Yet, beyond this charming façade lies a historical tale of power and control, the reverberations of which are felt even today in West Africa. As a delegate, you will be tasked with examining the ramifications of French postcolonial policy in West Africa, a topic that is as complex as it is intriguing.
The French Franc, or the CFA Franc, has long been a symbol of French influence and economic control over its former colonies. Yet, it is not just about monetary policy. It is about sovereignty, dignity, and the freedom to determine one's own economic destiny. You’ll be challenged to dissect the intricate web of relations and the residual impacts of colonial rule.
Let's take Niger, for instance. The current political situation in this landlocked nation is a direct consequence of past policies. It is a manifestation of the postcolonial hangover that is yet to be fully addressed. The question you will confront is, how do we rectify a historical wrong, without repeating the sins of the past?
In this committee, you must be prepared to face the ghosts of history, armed with nothing but your wit, empathy, and a profound understanding of the complexities of international relations. Are you ready to embark on this journey?
This committee is for you, if your heart beats faster at the thought of untangling complex historical narratives and seeking justice for nations still grappling with the echoes of the past.
À bientôt au comité.
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
General Assembly 4
On the second issue of the General Assembly 4 committee.
To the prospective delegate,
The illicit trade of cultural artefacts, an issue that is close to my heart, and perhaps, after your time in this committee, close to yours too. As an Egyptian, I have seen the scars of the past etched into the present, in the form of empty pedestals and hollow museum displays.
Recalled is a moment of dissonance. About 3 weeks ago (from the time of writing this) I was standing before the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum, an artefact taken from the land of my birth. It was a poignant reminder of the cultural erasure that occurs when historical treasures are ripped from their native soil. (I obviously then paid £12 for a Rosetta Stone pin from the souvenir shops).
The issue extends beyond borders, and the dialogue you will engage in will require a deep understanding of international law, cultural heritage, and the shadowy world of black markets. It is a battle against time and greed, as every stolen artefact is a stolen piece of history.
As a delegate, your task will be to find a way to stem the flow of these priceless artefacts, to restore them to their rightful home, and to ensure that the stories they tell are not lost in the annals (haha) of time.
Have you got the courage to stand against the forces of erasure and bring light to the shadows?
Until we meet in the grand halls of debate, remember, history is watching.
Toodles (pronounced in a British accent).
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
Economic and Social Council 1: Labour
On the issues of the Economic and Social 1: Labour committee.
To the prospective delegate;
Pop quiz: What do a taxi driver in New York, a bicycle courier in London, and a programmer in Bangalore have in common? They are all part of the swelling ranks of the gig economy. Yes, dear delegate, the world of work is changing, and it's about time we confronted the elephant in the room.
The gig economy brings with it the promise of flexibility and autonomy, but it also pulls along a long tail of issues, from volatile income to precarious employment. And it's not just the 'gig-ers'; many contractors are feeling the squeeze, often finding themselves stuck between the devil and the deep blue sea.
This committee is for those who don't mind getting their hands dirty in the nitty-gritty of labour law, international regulations, and the murky waters of corporate accountability. If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and stand up for the rights of workers across the globe, then welcome aboard.
Now, onto our second issue. The UAE, a land of skyscrapers and sprawling deserts, has become a refuge for many fleeing conflict and economic hardship. But even here, the spectre of inequality looms large, casting long shadows over the shimmering skyscrapers.
So, are you ready to wade into these complex issues, armed with nothing more than your knowledge and your burning passion for social justice?
XOXO, Gossip Girl.
(Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed)
Economic and Social Council 2: Equity
On the first issue of the Economic and Social 2: Equity committee.
To the prospective delegate;
In the world of Monopoly, the game is over when one player has all the money. In the real world, the game never ends, but the gap between the haves and the have-nots just keeps growing.
From the penthouses of Manhattan to the favelas of Rio, the story is the same: inequality. The question is, are you ready to rewrite the narrative?
Now, let's turn our gaze to the issue of housing affordability. Home, they say, is where the heart is. But for many, the heart is being priced out of the housing market. It's time to tackle this issue head-on, to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has a place to call home.
Our second issue takes us to the heart of the Egyptian desert, where a new capital city is rising from the sands. It's a symbol of progress, but also a stark reminder of the challenges of anti-insurrectional development.
If you're ready to dive into these heady issues, to grapple with complex economic theories, and to navigate the labyrinth of international law, then this committee is for you.
You're coming to FDR, right?
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
International Criminal Court
On the issue of the International Criminal Court.
To the prospective delegate;
My late nights spent delving into the disturbing details of the brutality in the Central African Republic were often brightened by my cheerful video calls with Violeta, the conference director, whose insights on the issues were invaluable.
This case and its complex implications stirred a maelstrom of emotions within me during long evenings walking the streets of Bucharest. Outrage at the crimes committed, sorrow for the victims, and determination to see justice served welled up inside.
Yet studying the proceedings against the accused warlords also kindled a glimmer of hope that accountability is possible, even for those who believe they are untouchable. Our committee offers a chance to thoughtfully analyse how international law can pierce that veil of impunity.
I look forward to our debate and to learning from each of your unique perspectives. Although heavy, the path to justice and reconciliation begins with a single principled step. Let us take it together.
Writing this an hour before public release.
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
UN Supervision Mission in Syria
On the issue of the UN Supervision Mission in Syria Committee.
To the prospective delegate;
Researching the tragic failure of the 2012 Syrian Supervision Mission often left me crestfallen, especially during late nights musing over cups of (fuze)tea. Yet Violeta, our wise conference director, provided a thoughtful perspective, reminding me that with every misstep there is opportunity for growth.
The answers, I believe, lie in the collective wisdom of our committee. Together, through thoughtful dialogue embracing myriad perspectives, we can build a principled foundation. Although the road ahead is lined with ethical thorns, arduous challenges demand creative solutions.
I have (erm) faith that our shared values of human dignity, empathy and justice will light the way forward. The Syrian people deserve nothing less than our full commitment to getting this right.
Although the path forward is lined with ethical thorns, our committee offers hope. Through open-minded dialogue and collective ingenuity, we can craft a meaningful plan of action. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves?
Yikes, Violeta, take it away.
Signed,
Adam Abdel-Hamid Ahmed
International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda
On the issue of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda.
(Thanks, Adam!)
Dear prospective delegate,
As I sit here, sipping my tea and pondering the complexities of international law, I can't help but think of the Rwandan Genocide. It's a heavy topic, I know, but bear with me. The UN's inaction during this tragic event is a stain on humanity's conscience, a glaring example of the international community's inability to act in the face of unspeakable horror.
But fear not, dear delegate, for I have a plan to make this issue more palatable. Let's imagine, for a moment, that the UN was not a solemn gathering of world leaders, but a rowdy pub full of tipsy diplomats. Picture it: the Security Council as a group of patrons loudly debating the finer points of international law, while the General Assembly is a raucous karaoke session where nations belt out their national anthems with varying degrees of enthusiasm and tunelessness.
Now, imagine you're the bartender. You're the one responsible for keeping the peace, pouring drinks, and, most importantly, listening to the troubles of the world's leaders. You, dear delegate, are the prosecutor in this scenario, tasked with the unenviable job of trying Jean-Paul Akayesu for his role in the Rwandan Genocide.
It's not an easy task, I assure you. Akayesu is a slippery character, with a penchant for using his charm and charisma to evade responsibility. But you, dear delegate, are no stranger to a challenge. You've spent countless hours researching, pouring over documents, and practicing your best "prosecutorial glare." You're a force to be reckoned with, and you won't let Akayesu get away with his crimes.
As you stand before the "bar" of justice, you begin your argument. You speak of the horrors that took place in Rwanda, of the innocent lives lost, and of the UN's failure to act. You paint a vivid picture of the chaos and bloodshed that ensued, and the role that Akayesu played in it all.
But, just as you're getting into your stride, you hear a faint meowing noise coming from the back of the room. It's Mr. Whiskers, the adorable cat who's managed to sneak into the proceedings. You can't help but smile at the sight of him, even as you're discussing the gravest of topics.
You continue your argument, your words dripping with conviction and passion. Akayesu may have thought he could outsmart the system, but he underestimated the determination of the prosecution. You're like a dog with a bone, refusing to let go until justice is served.
As the hours pass, the atmosphere in the "pub" grows more tense. The diplomats are on the edge of their seats, sipping their drinks nervously, while the General Assembly is singing a rousing chorus of "Don't Stop Believin'." It's a surreal moment, but you're focused on the task at hand.
Finally, after what seems like an eternity, you finish your argument. You've made your case, and now it's up to the "judges" to decide. Will they side with justice, or will they let Akayesu off the hook? The tension in the room is palpable, and you can't help but feel a sense of nervous excitement.
And then, in a moment of dramatic flair, the judges deliver their verdict. Akayesu is found guilty, and the room erupts in cheers. It's a victory for justice, and a reminder that even in the face of unspeakable horror, the international community can come together to hold those responsible accountable.
As the delegates pour out of the "pub," you can't help but feel a sense of pride and satisfaction. You've done your part in bringing a criminal to justice, and you've done it with style and grace. And who knows, maybe one day, the UN will be able to look back on this moment with a sense of humor, and maybe even a few laughs. After all, as the great philosopher, Dolly Parton once said, "If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain."
But for now, let's focus on the task at hand. The trial of Jean-Paul Akayesu is a significant step towards justice for the victims of the Rwandan Genocide, and it's a reminder that those who commit such atrocities will not go unpunished. It's a small victory, but a victory nonetheless.
And as you leave the "pub" and make your way back to your office, you can't help but feel a sense of hope. Hope that one day, the world will be a place where such atrocities cannot happen again. Hope that the international community will continue to work towards justice and accountability. And hope that, in the face of such darkness, there will always be a glimmer of light.
Thank you for your time, dear delegate. I hope this letter has given you a glimpse into the complexities of international law, and the importance of holding those responsible for such crimes accountable. It's not an easy task, but it's a necessary one. And who knows, maybe one day, we'll be able to look back on this moment and smile, knowing that we've made a difference.
On the brink of despair.
Signed,
Ana Violeta Banica
Supreme Court of the United States
On the cases of the Supreme Court of the United States : Atkins v. Virginia and Hall v. Florida
To the prospective advocates and jury,
The best closer of Netflix’s “Suits” once said, “don’t play the odds, play the man”. The judicial system of the United States is a game of chance and connections, where knowledge is power.
Atkins v. Virginia questions the constitutionality of applying capital punishment on individuals with intellectual limitations, implying that the Eighth Amdendment’s prohibition against ‘cruel and unusual punishments’ barred the execution of such defendants. The Court held that such executions are disproportionate and excessive, given the diminished culpability of individuals with intellectual disabilities and the evolving standards of decency in society. The decision relied on the concept that executing intellectually disabled individuals goes against the principle of retribution and the fundamental notions of human dignity.
If you’re selected to be advocate, the case before you is to define a precedent that could forever change the way things work. You’ll face an immense challenge, where breaking under pressure is not an option. Once again, as Harvey Specter said, ‘when your back’s against a wall, break the goddamn thing down’. This is your chance to obliterate any barriers that come your way, and fight like hell for what you believe in. Millions of lives are at stake, can you help them?
Subsequently, Hall v. Florida argues the margins of one’s intellectual quotient, or better know as the IQ, which pin-points the distinction between who can be eligible for the death penalty. The ruling mandated that states must consider a more holistic evaluation of an individual's intellectual capabilities and limitations, rather than relying solely on a fixed IQ score threshold. Are you able to shift the verdict in your favor? Will you manage to set a new standard?
Only you can answer that question.
From an avid Suits fan,
Violeta Banica