Special Political and Decolonization Committee

Approximately 95 Delegations - Double Delegate
Topic A: The Future of International Assistance in Afghanistan
Topic B: Self-Determination in Western Sahara

SPECPOL addresses some of the most complex global political challenges, particularly those rooted in histories of colonialism and disputed sovereignty. This year, delegates will focus on the question of self-determination in Western Sahara, where decades of political tension and displacement have left the Sahrawi people without a resolved future. Your role will be to navigate competing national claims, human rights concerns, and geopolitical interests to work toward a fair and stable path forward. This is a committee that asks you to balance diplomacy with principle, and international law with lived realities.

Dear Delegates, 

I am excited to welcome you to the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL) of ILMUNC! My name is Jonathan (JJ) Braverman, and as the moderator I look forward to guiding you through engaging and impactful discussions that explore various aspects of international peace and security. 

Often referred to as the “Fourth Committee” of the United Nations General Assembly, the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL) addresses a wide range of issues, including decolonization, peacekeeping operations, the rights of refugees, and questions related to international peace and security that do not fall under the jurisdiction of the Security Council. SPECPOL serves as a forum where member states can work collaboratively to resolve complex political challenges and advance the UN’s mission of self-determination for peoples in non-self-governing territories. This committee plays a vital role in ensuring that the process of decolonization remains peaceful, just, and consistent with international law. 

A little bit about me, I am a junior in the College of Arts and Sciences studying Economics with a double minor in Data Science & Analytics and History. I’m originally from Syracuse, New York (Go Orange!) and went to Manlius Pebble Hill School where I participated in my high school’s Model UN club. This will be my second time serving as a chair for ILMUNC and hope that you all have an enriching and valuable experience! Outside of ILMUNC, I’m one of the Vice-President’s for the Wharton Undergraduate Finance Club, Chief of Finance for INTERCOL (Penn’s own competitive ModelUN team), and am involved in Greek life on campus. I love running, waterskiing, grilling, and trying to enjoy the outdoors as much as possible! 

I’m looking forward to working with you in the SPECPOL committee. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding the committee. 

JJ Braverman 

Chair, SPECPOL 

jjbrave@sas.upenn.edu