Who watches the watchers? That is the question the delegates of HRC were asking themselves during their debate today surrounding the ethics of mass surveillance. This afternoon, delegates of the HRC committee discussed and addressed issues surrounding the introduction of a new amendment, centered around the ethics of mass surveillance and individual privacy in an increasingly digital world. They debated about how democratic governments should regulate and control surveillance technology while protecting human rights.

Initially, the delegate from India proposed using mass surveillance as a way for the government to monitor what the population is doing, but the plan was quickly met by backlash, notably by the delegate of Saudi Arabia, and the delegate of the United States. Both delegates proposed modifications to the clauses 6B (the clause was described as “unrealistic” according to the United States) and 6D, with the United States also proposing an amendment. The delegate of Belarus created an additional amendment, leading to contention between the delegates of Belarus and United States. There were many POIs from many countries’ delegates, most notably from the delegate of China. After a 15-minute break, a vote was passed to determine the outcome of the amendments, most of which were approved by the majority of delegates.

Amaury, an 11th‑grade student at the International French School of Singapore and Deputy Chair of the Human Rights Committee (HRC), shared his experience and insights on Model United Nations. Although this is only his second year participating in MUN and his fifth conference, he highlighted how much he enjoys public speaking, teamwork, and negotiating resolutions with other delegates. He explained that debate in MUN involves speeches followed by Points of Information (POIs), which allow delegates to question or challenge speakers and clarify arguments. Resolutions are first drafted during lobbying by groups of delegates with similar views, then debated, amended, and voted on by the committee. As Deputy Chair, Amaury helps guide the structured debate process, keeps track of speeches and amendments, and supports delegates—especially beginners—in understanding procedures. Reflecting on the conference so far, he noted a positive and friendly atmosphere in the committee and expressed hope that, as the conference progresses, delegates will gain confidence, participate more actively in debates, and contribute further to improving resolutions.