Special Political and Decolonization Committee SPECPOL

The Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPECPOL) is the Fourth Committee of the United Nations General Assembly. Originally two separate committees, the Fourth Committee focused solely on decolonization affairs before 1993, when it was merged with the Special Political Committee during the end of the United Nations Trust Territory system. The committee is focused on a broad range of issues, including the effects of atomic radiation and reviewing peacekeeping operations. This year, SPECPOL will be focused on two issues— the first examining the impacts of tourism on indigenous populations, and the second weighing the ethical responsibilities of international corporations.

Topic A: Impacts of Tourism on Indigenous Populations
Tourism can be a double-edged sword for Indigenous communities, presenting economic opportunities while often simultaneously threatening cultural preservation and land rights. With global travel becoming increasingly more accessible, indigenous populations across the planet face increasing pressures from commercialization, environmental degradation, and the commodification of tradition and culture. Tourism can provide a source of income, but the risk of exploitation, displacement, and erosion of historic sites must all be considered as well. Delegates will explore the balance between economic development and protection of indigenous rights with the goal of creating policies that promote sustainable tourism, show respect for autonomy, and ensure a fair sharing of profit. Delegates will be challenged to tackle the ethical dimensions of tourism and ensure the indigenous populations of each country are rightfully represented.

Topic B: Ethical Responsibilities of International Corporations
In today’s global economy, multinational corporations hold immense power and influence, yet their operations are often implemented at the expense of human rights, environmental sustainability concerns, and fair labor practices. From exploitative supply chains to the extraction of specific resources in vulnerable regions, the actions of international corporations have huge consequences. Delegates will learn and examine historical grievances of multinational corporations, as well as analyze current actions in order to examine how to enforce accountability on such corporations. This topic will dive into the concepts of corporate social responsibility, the role of governments in regulating transnational business, and the power we have to ensure that profit does not override ethical obligations to the people and planet.

Documents