The SC paradox: tamely aggressive delegates and exceptionally nice chairs (all subject to change)

by Osanna Chung

The Syrian situation is complicated and controversial, but SC delegates manage to maintain composure throughout the articulate opening speeches, only beginning to show their true colours by their militaristic determination in cementing a spot in the GSL and competitive eagerness in ensuring a POI opportunity. 

The morning of 12th of July brought to the ISMUN Security Council three threats: unprepared delegates, missing merch and a missing placard.

Despite SC being a stereotypically advanced council, delegates clearly still need to further hone their time management skills for prepping for a conference, as the delegates of China and Russia were not only late, but were also found to have camped outside the opening ceremony hall, claiming to be prepping. The chairs could only smile indulgently at them and hope their influence would not affect other delegates before leading the whole council on a 5 minute walk to their council room.

Upon arrival, everyone quickly settled down amidst the tense and quiet atmosphere. Before the chairs could commence the opening speeches, however, delegates cited two issues that could not be ignored: first being the non-existent placard of Libya, who in the end had to use the placard of absent Germany as a substitute and second, the lack of merch for a few delegates. With no admin in sight, the journalist was sent to retrieve the bags that contained the coveted notepads (beautifully designed by our public relations and media development director).

By the time the journalist returned, the room was in the heat of opening speeches. Clawclips up, pencils out and an already empty coffee cup signaled that delegates were in the zone: caffeinated and (therefore) attentive. Delegates covered a wide range of perspectives on building lasting peace in Syria: Saudi Arabia highlighted the financial aid it can contribute, while Lebanon and India leaned towards the humanitarian side of alleviating the issue. With a debate-style, passionate rap, Libya took to a more analytical stance of zooming in on the reasons behind current instability in Syria, and suggested a clear outline for 3 solutions. From ethical concerns of minority representation in the Syrian government to ethical concerns of sanctions and humanitarian aid, to political intervention of hegemons in the terrorist torn tapestry of Syria, most grounds for debate had been placed on the table for discussion by the veteran delegates of SC. 

This enthusiasm was further demonstrated when all delegates vyed for a spot in the General Speaker’s List. The chairs once again generously complied and invited USA to the podium, commencing the GSLs. The delegate of the USA embraced a more benevolent stance, as is the expected attitude of the country, and suggested maintaining the current political status quo in Syria by supporting its transitional government and reducing sanctions. The speech became a target for 12 POIs, a staggering 75% of all delegates in the room. Surprisingly, the chairs leniently allowed the bombardment, showing how mellow their temperament is.

With the high level of engagement of the council, more conflict and drama are guaranteed to ensue. The chairs however, may have to look out for themselves lest they get bullied by their delegates.