United Nations Human Settlements Programme

Approximately 80 Delegations - Single Delegate
Topic A: Urban Surveillance and Smart Cities
Topic B: The Role of Rent Control Policies

 Welcome to the UN-Habitat Committee! In this dynamic forum, delegates will delve into two critical topics shaping the future of human settlements: Urban Surveillance and Smart Cities, and The Role of Rent Control Policies. Delegates will work collaboratively to address the complex ethical and privacy challenges posed by the increasing use of surveillance technologies in developing "smart cities," ensuring technological advancement doesn't infringe on civil liberties. Additionally, the committee will examine the effectiveness and unintended consequences of rent control policies as a mechanism to ensure access to affordable and sustainable housing in rapidly urbanizing areas. Through insightful debate, delegates will craft solutions to advance sustainable urban development and maintain equitable human settlements worldwide.

Dear Delegates,

I am extremely excited to welcome you to the UN-Habitat Committee of ILMUNC! My name is Shafira Putri, and as the moderator I look forward to guiding you through engaging and impactful discussions surrounding climate sustainability as well as affordable housing.

Often referred to as the UN’s primary agency on urban settlements, UN-Habitat engages with sustainable urbanization and housing as well as the rights of people living in cities. UN-Habitat explores how the government and communities can navigate the issues of modernization, property rights, and human rights to shape the future. Concerns such as forced evictions, the responsibility to climate refugees, and green gentrification are examples of conflicts between development, equity, and justice. I look forward to hearing your ideas about how we can create inclusive, resilient and sustainable urban environments that can serve all communities.

A little bit about me, I am a junior in The Wharton School studying Finance and Business Analytics. I’m from Indonesia and frequently participated in Model UN conferences around Asia Pacific. This will be my first conference that I have helped to plan with ILMUNC and hope that you all have an enriching and valuable experience! Outside of ILMUNC, I help lead Wharton’s largest finance organization as well as the Indonesian student association on campus. I love running, weightlifting, and coming up with new coffee recipes!

Cuong, Tasneem, and I are all looking forward to working with you in the UN-Habitat committee. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding the committee.

Shafira Putri

Moderator, UN-Habitat

shafira@wharton.upenn.edu

Dear Delegates,

Welcome to the 42nd Ivy League Model United Nations Conference! My name is Cuong Nguyen, and I’m ecstatic to serve as your chair for the ECOSOC III: UN-Habitat committee. Together, we’ll tackle important global issues, dive into lively debates, and strive for impactful solutions. I can’t wait to hear your creative ideas and see how we collaborate!

Before we dive into our discussions, a quick intro on why Model UN means so much to me. I’m a pre-law student at Penn, studying Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (P.P.E.) and Computer Science, with a focus in Public Policy & Governance. I’m also on an accelerated path to a master’s in Education Policy. My passion for international affairs and diplomacy grew during my time as a Student School Director and Electoral Delegate for the Democratic Party. At Penn, I previously served as President of the Honor Council and as a committee member with Wharton Undergraduate Public Policy. I also express my artistic side as President/Member of the first collegiate Chinese a cappella group in the U.S., PennYo A Cappella. Outside of academics, I love exploring the city, hunting for great ice cream, getting lost in web novels, and chatting about big philosophical ideas! Oh, and I work as an Admissions Officer at Penn Dental Medicine. If you have general admissions questions, feel free to ask me.

Model UN fills me with joy because it brings together my love for international relations, diplomacy, and the pursuit of equity and justice. It’s a special space where passionate minds come together, exchange ideas, and simulate real-world diplomacy to tackle global challenges. Along the way, we build essential skills such as analytical thinking, negotiation, public speaking, and teamwork (and friendships), while embracing diverse perspectives and cultures.

As we begin on this journey, I’m excited to see your passion, creativity, and intellectual firepower in action. Let’s make this conference unforgettable and create innovative solutions to the complex issues before us!

If you have any questions about the committee, or just want to say “hello”, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Get ready for an amazing 42nd Ivy League Model United Nations Conference!

With enthusiasm,

Cuong Nguyen

Dear Delegates,

My name is Tasneem Reza, and it is an honor to serve as your Chair for this committee at ILMUNC XLII. This will be my fourth and final year with the conference—pretty nostalgic!

Since freshman year, I have pursued opportunities bridging international policy and business. I interned in Thailand on Europe–Southeast Asia tax policy, spent a semester in Washington, D.C. working for a pharmaceutical lobbying firm, and am currently conducting a year-long research project on U.S.–China competitive dynamics, including a research trip to China this December. After graduation, I will move to San Francisco to work in equity research, and I’m super excited to start this next chapter post-grad.

On campus, I’ve been involved with Penn Republicans, Wharton Management, and Penn Abroad, each of which has deepened my appreciation for the interplay between international markets, regulation, and social outcomes. Therefore, in this committee, I look forward to delegates taking a holistic approach to drafting resolutions—one that carefully considers your country’s strategic partnerships, stance in international spaces, and the broader social and economic impacts of your proposals. And, of course, I always welcome humorous and creative debates—I personally love puns!

In UN-Habitat, you will have the opportunity to engage with pressing global challenges—such as rapid urbanization, sustainable infrastructure, and inclusive social policy—while practicing the art of policymaking on an international stage. I hope you will embrace the chance to collaborate, debate, and innovate.

I cannot wait to meet each of you and to see the unique perspectives you bring to committee. Together, let’s make this a meaningful and memorable ILMUNC experience. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about MUN, careers, or college—I’m happy to be a resource!

Warmly,

Tasneem Reza, rtasneem@sas.upenn.edu