Topic 1 is on the rights of Uyghur Muslims in China. Uyghurs have historically been a minority suppressed by the communist government, and they have often been denied autonomy. Notably, after 9-11, mass surveillance, religious oppression, re-education campaigns, and labor abuses have increased significantly. Currently, discussions center around the continued political suppression and mistreatment of Uyghurs by the Chinese government, which include the destruction of religious texts, demolition of mosques, and violent suppression of protests. 

Topic 2 is on CRISPR, a new gene-editing technology that allows for human embryos to be genetically altered. While CRISPR is recognized for its potential to cure debilitating genetic diseases, human rights concerns regarding consent, safety, state abuse, and socioeconomic inequality means that this new technology is still highly controversial. 

Aida Dieng is a sophomore at Maggie Walker and is greatly looking forward to chairing the UNHRC committee this year. Along with Model UN, she also participates in Future Medical professionals, a club at Maggie Walker dedicated to exploring careers in healthcare, and Red Cross. She also enjoys baking in her free time and does yoga and pilates. Aida is excited to meet the delegates and hear the discussions and debates at GSMUN XXVIII!

Indira Mudinur is a junior at Maggie Walker and is excited to chair the UNHRC at GSMUN for the second time. This is her third year participating in GSMUN. In her free time, she likes to read books, collect and listen to albums, and play the guitar. She is enthusiastically waiting for this year’s conference to meet all the delegates and witness the creative and impactful ideas they will produce.