ICJ

Hello again

 Just a few words on ICJ position papers. Since ICJ is different than the other committees the position papers will be in a somewhat different format.  In terms of content an overview of the topic, UN involvement in the conflict, and references are the parts of the BMUN position paper guidelines you need to consider when writing your paper.  In regards to the overview of the topic portion of the paper, I would like you to first give a general background of the topic, and then describe both opposing arguments.  Despite the fact that you are not writing what your stance would be in terms of your country, I would recommend that you think about this idea carefully, as it may help you in deciding whether or not you would like to adopt the ideas that you would have if you were a citizen of that country when considering the case. 

In addition to those portions of the position paper, I would like you to write a part where you dissect both opposing arguments by describing both the strengths and weaknesses of each of their cases.  Also, I would like a part discussing the term genocide and whether or not you feel that the ICJ in particular has any right to preside over this case based on the terms put forth in the genocide convention.

 When writing your papers please keep in mind that no plagiarism is allowed and it will not be tolerated.  Furthermore keep in mind the authenticity of your source when you are doing your research. You are all in high school, so by now I feel you can judge for yourself which sites are credible and which may be questionable. 

Please keep in mind that the deadlines for paper submissions are Feb 1 for research awards and March 1 for general awards.  Papers handed in at the conference will likely not be graded due to lack of time.  If you have any questions please let me know at jhumki AT berkeley DOT edu.

 Taumoha

Hey everyone.

My name is Taumoha Ghosh and I am so excited to be returning to Berkeley this semester to act as your head-chair for the International Court of Justice Committee for the 56th session at Berkeley Model United Nations.  A little background about me, I am a third year Molecular Cell Biology major with an emphasis in Immunology.  I spent the past semester studying abroad in Sweden and travelling around Europe, which was absolutely amazing.  I am originally from Canada, but spent most of my formative years in Wisconsin before completing my high school education in San Rafael, California.  I am addicted to TV and movies, and I love to read and dance.  I have been on this committee (in its various forms) for the past three years and prior to that I was involved in my high school’s Mock Trial team. 

ICJ is one of the really cool committees that allow you to get a different perspective on the United Nations, since it is in a court setting instead of an actual committee.  This year our committee will be looking at the situation resulting from the break-up of the former Yugoslavia, mainly by looking at the case presented against Serbia and Montenegro by Croatia for committing acts of genocide.  As individual justices each of you will be responsible for analyzing the case as it is presented before you during the course of the conference.  If during your research prior to the conference you find any individuals that you would like to call forth as witnesses during the conference, I would really appreciate if you could let me know via this blog or by e-mail, so that my co-chairs and I can do our utmost to make that happen. 

More to come soon.