Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee
Approximately 95 Delegations - Double Delegate
Topic A: Combating Gender-Based Violence
Topic B: The Rights of Indigenous People in Combat Zones
The Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM) focuses on addressing global social and human rights challenges, striving to build a world where safety and equality are accessible to all. Delegates explore topics like freedom of expression and fair criminal justice systems through the lens of diverse international perspectives, taking into account each nation’s cultural and religious context. In SOCHUM, participants play an active role in defending the essential rights and freedoms that every individual deserves.
Dear Delegates,
Welcome to ILMUNC XLII SOCHUM! My name is Julia Fremberg, and I am honored to serve as your chair for this committee. I am currently a senior at the University of Pennsylvania studying Computer Science with a concentration in Artificial Intelligence and a minor in Mathematics. Outside of the classroom, you can catch me running on the Schuylkill River Trail or trying new restaurants in Philly with friends.
Model UN has been a big part of my life for many years. As a high school student, I attended ILMUNC and discovered my passion for international affairs and debate. In college, I had the chance to help run the conference behind the scenes, learning firsthand how much work and teamwork goes into making it such a success. Now, as a senior, I’m thrilled to close the circle by chairing this committee. Having seen ILMUNC from every perspective — as a delegate, USG, and now chair — I know how special this experience can be, and I’m so excited to share it with all of you.
This year, our committee will be tackling two pressing global issues: Combating Gender-Based Violence and The Rights of Indigenous People in Combat Zones. These topics demand both compassion and rigor. They sit at the intersection of human rights, international law, and cultural preservation, and they highlight how marginalized groups often bear the heaviest burdens of conflict. My hope is that our discussions will not only delve into the historical and legal contexts but also imagine innovative, realistic solutions that the international community could pursue.
As you prepare, I encourage you to read widely, think critically, and come in with both a clear policy position and an open mind. The best debate happens when delegates are willing to engage respectfully, listen to one another, and push the conversation beyond surface-level arguments. Most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the experience! ILMUNC is as much about learning and collaboration as it is about competition, and I can’t wait to see the energy and creativity you bring to committee.
I look forward to an exciting and productive conference with all of you. See you soon!
Warmly,
Julia Fremberg
Chair, SOCHUM
jfremberg@seas.upenn.edu
Dear Delegates,
I am thrilled to welcome you to the Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM) of ILMUNC! My name is Frank de la Terga, and I am honored to serve as your moderator this year. Together, we'll be tackling two critically important topics: Combating Gender-Based Violence and The Rights of Indigenous People in Combat Zones.
As the “Third Committee” of the United Nations General Assembly, SOCHUM is dedicated to addressing a broad range of social and humanitarian issues that impact people around the globe. Our first topic, Combating Gender-Based Violence, calls on us to confront the persistent challenges facing individuals and communities worldwide, and to explore comprehensive, creative solutions to support survivors and promote justice. Our second topic, The Rights of Indigenous People in Combat Zones, will push us to examine the intersection of conflict and cultural preservation, considering the unique vulnerabilities—and immense strength—of indigenous populations in times of war.
A little bit about myself: I am a sophomore studying finance and real estate at The Wharton School. I’m originally from Miami FL, where I first became involved with Model UN as a member of my high school’s MUN club. This is my first time chairing for ILMUNC, and I cannot wait to see the innovative perspectives and thoughtful debate that you will bring to committee! Outside of ILMUNC, I work with non-profits in consultancy projects and am involved in Greek life on campus. I love exploring Philadelphia and its food scene in my off-time. Cindy Chen, Matt Kadaev, and I are all looking forward to working with you in the SOCHUM committee. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding the committee.
Frank de la Terga
Moderator, SOCHUM
fdlt@seas.upenn.edu
