The 9th edition of OberMUN took place from the 4th to the 6th April 2025 and it was hosted at the premises of the Regional Palace, the Urban Center and the CEI (Central European Initiative).

The Committees involved in this project were:

• DISC

• UNOOSA

• SPECPOL

• UNODA

• UNESCO

• UNEP

UNOOSA

Topic A

Reviewing the Space Policy for Military Espionage and Private Satellites, to ensure ethical usage and guarantee the right to privacy.

The central aim of the meeting was to formulate a framework that would ensure ethical usage of space assets while guaranteeing the right to privacy for all citizens. The discussions revealed an overarching consensus on the necessity of establishing international cooperation and stringent regulatory mechanisms to curb potential abuses in the rapidly evolving domain of space technology. Representatives from each state expressed willingness to work collaboratively towards a balanced solution that would protect civilian privacy without compromising national security. Many delegations acknowledged the intrinsic tension between maintaining public privacy and the growing capabilities of both military satellites and private ventures. It was broadly agreed that the privacy of citizens should remain inviolable, and any system that posed a risk of unauthorized surveillance or leakage of sensitive data had to be carefully scrutinized. A particularly impassioned intervention came from the Cuban delegation, which was vocally opposed to the deployment of military satellites. Delegation of Cuba argued that such satellites offer minimal benefit while significantly increasing the risk of escalating conflicts. He contended that if left in the hands of the wrong actors, military satellites could lead to misuse that would destabilize regional security, and thus, they proposed a complete elimination of these assets. This stance provided a critical counterpoint to those favoring regulated usage for border monitoring and national defense. The meeting also addressed concerns regarding private satellites. Initial proposals to impose a blanket ban on their launch were quickly moderated by a broader agreement. Delegations acknowledged that while private satellites might disrupt activities of major international space companies, a regulated approach could harness their potential without compromising commercial integrity or posing unintended security challenges. It was agreed that the use of private satellites would be subject to strict controls to ensure they contributed positively to global space ventures. Another dimension of the discussion focused on the environmental impact of satellite technology, particularly its contribution to global warming. Delegates examined scientific data linking satellite launches and operations to environmental degradation. This topic was integrated into the broader debate as part of an effort to create an all-encompassing policy that weighs both technological advancements and environmental responsibilities. In addition to these discussions, the commission explored the possibility of creating a comprehensive framework or treaty to limit the deployment and operational parameters of military satellites. While some nations underlined the utility of such satellites for border surveillance and maintaining state security, the proposal emphasized clear constraints to prevent any misuse. This balanced approach sought to delineate acceptable practices while acknowledging the potential necessity of military applications under strictly controlled circumstances. A forward-looking element of the meeting was the proposal to implement a policy of transparency. This initiative aimed to protect the privacy rights of civilians by ensuring that all space-based surveillance and data collection activities were subject to regular audits and public oversight. The transparency policy would serve as a safeguard against unauthorized monitoring and foster trust between nations, as well as between governments and their citizens. Recognizing the risks of inadvertent privacy violations, delegates also discussed the development of an automated algorithm designed to monitor data collection processes. This algorithm would be capable of detecting potential breaches of civilian privacy and would automatically halt data transmission if any violations were detected. This measure was intended to integrate cyber security into the fabric of space policy, ensuring that data collection remains both secure and respectful of individual privacy. The session also highlighted the importance of international solidarity, with technologically advanced nations encouraged to support developing states in accessing space technologies and infrastructure. By bridging the technological gap, the commission aimed to foster a more equitable global space community where expertise and resources could be shared and developed collectively. While the idea of incorporating artificial intelligence as an auxiliary tool in monitoring and enforcing these policies was entertained, many delegates expressed reservations regarding its reliability. Concerns were raised about the current limitations of AI in making critical decisions in sensitive areas such as surveillance and privacy. Consequently, while the technology might eventually play a supportive role, it was agreed that reliance on AI would be limited until it had proven sufficient reliability and accountability. Finally, the commission concluded its session by deliberating the implementation of sanctions. It was proposed that states failing to adhere to the agreed-upon guidelines and transparency measures should face concrete punitive actions. This punitive framework aimed to reinforce the credibility of the new policy and deter potential violations, thereby upholding the integrity of international space operations. Overall, the meeting served as a vital forum for rethinking the balance between military necessities and the rights of individuals in an era of unprecedented technological advancement.

Topic B

Exploring Strategies to Ensure Equitable Access to Lunar and Asteroid Resources among nations.

Due to the urgency in regulating the activities of states and private individuals, the delegates discussed the establishment of a United Nations Lunar Agreement, a framework under the supervision of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs, which should oversee all international lunar activities, facilitate coordination between member states and foster international cooperation and transparency. It was decided to designate certain parts of the Moon as Neutral Lunar Research Zones, to Prioritize peaceful, non-commercial scientific research, to reduce boundaries between Nations and to Host international lunar science bases where every country can cooperate. In addition the delegates agreed on the prohibition of weapon placement, military outposts, or espionage equipment on the lunar surface, with the goal of building trust between nations.

It was declared the purpose to support the developing countries in order to obtain equity in space exploration and resource usage, by establishing collaborative lunar and asteroid, inter alia, study programmes and by establishing joint missions between state members, to ensure a peaceful and collaborative exploration of space through shared research organizations, expeditions or explorations.

Another problem, highlighted by the Committee, was the importance of considering the environmental and sustainable part of all outer space missions. In fact the delegates decided to create an international center that focuses on sustainable technologies for outer space resources extractions, in order to guarantee transparency between member states and companies in space, set rules and regulations for the extraction of resources and to avoid as much waste as possible, guaranteeing the maximum use of space resources.

UNODA

Topic A

Addressing Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS) and their implications for global security.

The delegates discussed together to establish guidelines on the development, testing, and deployment of autonomous weapons establishing a legally binding international treaty.

During the discussion, the delegation of Italy proposed to create a set of non-binding guidelines to better manage LAWs, classifying this particular kind of weapon into different categories. First, we have the RED category: here we find arms that put civilians in high danger. These weapons are offensive, and once they’re activated, they can no longer be deactivated by humans. Then, we have the YELLOW category, characterized by offensive arms that can be deactivated by human intervention and defensive arms not designed to intercept military attacks. Finally, in the GREEN category, we find weapons that don’t put civilians at risk (defensive arms which intercept military attacks).

There were also some ethical issues discussed, such as death or life decisions. How can an autonomous weapon decide what to do in difficult situations like having to take the life of a human? For this reason, the delegations decided to create another set of guidelines to make sure that there’ll always be human oversight in the operation of lethal autonomous weapons. Even if the amount of human oversight is decided by every government, this way, there will always be some sort of control over LAWs. Additionally, countries are encouraged to use semi-autonomous systems where human decision-makers have responsibility for their actions. Every country should also share pre-selected pieces of information about the implementations of these guidelines to the UNODA committee yearly. The proliferation of non-state actors is a threat to international peace and security. All the delegates agreed on the fact that LAWs should not be managed by civilians and, more generally, non-state actors, because this could lead to unpredictable attacks. The delegations also proposed to create a non-mandatory list which every country should make yearly to constate the amount of illicit trade of LAWs. The UNODA and non-governmental organisations from every country that apply to this watchlist could then provide two different lists, made with the data gathered by the yearly lists we talked about before: a YELLOW one, that would include all countries that are suspected of illicit LAWs traffic, and a RED one, where we could find all the countries that are proven to be engaged in illegal traffic of LAWs. The use of AI in LAW Another ethical issue that has been largely debated was the use of AI in LAWs and the lack of regulations about it. To prevent illicit use of AI, the committee proposed to create another set of non-binding guidelines that could possibly help the countries control the development of this new technology in military equipment. If they decided to follow the rules of the guideline, the states have to test and check rigorously all military activities that involve AI to make sure that the international rules are followed; reduce the influence made by prejudices and personal opinions in AI military capabilities; guarantee a certain amount of transparency, about the development of AI in LAWs and how they’re being used; ensure that all people involved in using LAWs with the use of AI are accountable of their actions and all civilians are conscious about the risks, benefits, and function thanks to educational programs. In conclusion, the committee highlighted the urgency of taking action about LAWs with a set of guidelines that concerns the use of AI and the international management of the lethal autonomous weapons. As the development of LAWs continues, the collaboration between nations is fundamental as they should emanate new guidelines  regularly.  

Topic B

Building Legal Frameworks for Regulating Civilian Possession  of Arms for Self-Defence in order to Stop Illicit Trade and Promote Community Safety.

In many countries, gun laws are weak or very different, which makes it easier for illegal weapons to move across borders. To fix this, countries suggested creating stronger and more unified laws about who can own a gun and under what conditions. This helps to improve international tracking of guns in order to increase community safety and to tackle the issue of illicit trade. The delegates highlighted that in many places, people have easy access to guns, which increases the risk of violence. To make communities safer, some countries suggested restricting access to guns in dangerous areas and promoting responsible ownership. Public awareness is often low when it comes to gun safety, in fact many delegates supported the idea of education campaigns to teach people about the dangers of gun misuse and to encourage a peaceful culture.

Another major problem is the illegal trade of weapons between countries. Borders are often not well controlled, and governments don’t always work together. Delegates in fact proposed more cooperation between countries, including shared databases and training to stop arms trafficking and underlined the importance of Implementing national certification regarding the permission for the import, transit and export of civilian firearms. These certifications would be a request from economic operators and private firearms owners of each state government, which must be shown by the civilians on the border of each state. 

UNEP

Topic A

Combating Land Degradation and Desertification, restoring fertile land for agriculture and promoting biotechnology in sustainable food production.

The UNEP commission was reunited to discuss important topics such as land degradation and desertification focusing on restoring fertile land for agriculture and promoting biotechnology in sustainable food production. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a commission of the United Nations focused on environmental issues. It was created in 1972 and works to promote sustainable development and protect the environment worldwide. UNEP supports countries with environmental policies, scientific research, and climate action. It also organizes global events like World Environment Day. By working with governments, businesses, and communities, UNEP helps to build a greener and more sustainable future for all. The UNEP Committee reunited lots of delegations that arrived at a resolution accepted by most of them.

The delegates highlighted the importance of raising awareness about soil health and promoting sustainable farming methods. They encourage countries to create social awareness campaigns using social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, as well as posters in public places. Most of them agree in saying that awareness campings are the best method to spread acknowledgement about the problem throughout the population. The goal is to make scientific topics like land degradation easier to understand for everyone, so that individuals can take action.

UNEP is asked to create an International UN Scale of Sustainability, using a color and letter system (A to F) to show how sustainable a product is. This would help consumers, including those who cannot read, make better choices.

Some delegates also suggest organizing workshops for farmers, consumers, and decision-makers in schools, universities, community centers, and workplaces. These workshops should include visual materials to help everyone understand, even those who are illiterate, and this idea is supported by lots of them.

They support sustainable farming techniques such as reforestation, crop rotation, and the use of organic fertilizers. Genome editing technologies and biotechnology are promoted to develop weather-resistant and pest-resistant crops. Funding should be provided for research into these technologies, especially in developing countries and areas affected by drought.

Biotechnology should be made affordable for low-income farmers, offering training through programs like the Green Economy Initiative, is the delegation of Argentina that insist most on the importance of this point. This can reduce brain drain and create local job opportunities. The delegates also call for clear international regulations to ensure biotechnology is used safely and responsibly.

To monitor environmental conditions, they suggest using satellite and AI technologies to track soil degradation and predict extreme weather. Experts should verify AI data to avoid overuse and reduce environmental impact.

Finally, an Indirect Tax on the Use of Pesticides was proposed (ITOUP) and most of the delegates agreed on this solution. In fact, this tax would encourage farmers to choose more sustainable options by making pesticides more expensive. The money from the tax would be used to support organic farming and educate farmers on sustainable methods, especially low-income ones. Regular checks would measure how the tax affects soil health and pesticide use.

After a discussion where all the delegates worked together proposing lots of solutions and finding an agreement, they continued to do a great job in writing the Resolution paper that was accepted by most of them. 

Topic B

Strengthening Global action to Protect Marine Ecosystems, addressing the impact of climate change and regulating deep-sea mining to ensure marine conservation.

Considering the negative impact that ecotourism can have on marine ecosystems, the delegates recognized the need to create stricter regulations on it. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the three negative environmental impacts of tourism are: the depletion of natural resources, pollution, and physical degradation of ecosystems.

To work on these issues, the delegations agreed on implementing heavier

sanctions, such as penalties for maritime companies that dump plastic waste in the ocean and sea waters. In addition the Committee decided to set minimal fining systems on tourist pollution to discourage the habit and effectively reduce pollution in heavy tourist areas and to put restrictions on fishing in local areas.

To raise awareness about these problems, the delegates decided to promote  UN-led social Media campaigns, partnering with Instagram, Tik Tok and Youtube; in order to encourage achieving sustainable development along with economic growth and economic development. In addition they proposed competitions between students at school that would start at a regional, then national and finally international level collecting the most amount of waste possible. To emphasize the importance of marine protected areas the delegates highlighted the importance of reducing illegal fishing and overfishing, and investing in scientific research (more specifically in creating fish rehabilitation centres).

In conclusion, the UNEP  Committee wants to encourage collaboration between local institutions and global research initiatives, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), UNESCO, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission(IOC) and the Arctic Council.