United Nations Development Programme

Topic 1. AI's role in Sustainable Development (OPPORTUNITIES, Ethical Considerations, Obstacles)

Topic 2. The Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Populations

Background Guide

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) is an organization that fights to end poverty, inequality, and climate change. It helps develop policies skills and institutional capabilities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Specifically, this committee will be focused on Artificial Intelligence and climate change. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to drive significant advancements in sustainable development across various sectors. By harnessing AI technologies, we can optimize resource management, improve agricultural productivity, enhance healthcare delivery, and foster economic growth in environmentally sustainable ways. However, AI comes with its challenges. Ethical considerations, such as ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability, are essential. This committee will be focusing on regulatory and governance frameworks to manage the risks associated with AI, such as data privacy concerns and more. The digital divide must be addressed so that AI can be prevented from intensifying the existing inequalities. The second topic will be focused on the impact of climate change on indigenous populations. Indigenous populations often reside in regions that are highly vulnerable to climate-related impacts, such as rising sea levels, changing weather patterns, and loss of biodiversity. These communities possess invaluable traditional knowledge and practices. However, they frequently lack the resources and political power to adapt to the impacts of climate change. This committee will examine the unique challenges faced by indigenous populations in the face of climate change and explore strategies to protect their rights, cultures, and livelihoods. The period that this committee will take place in is the current day. We wish you the best of luck, please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns.


co-chairs

Sreya Peddi and Srinita Premkumar

Srinita Premkumar is a fourth year student majoring in Computer Science and Economics. She has done Model UN since high school, and she is very excited to be the chair for UNDP this VAMUN!

nky2ta@virginia.edu

Sreya Peddi is a fourth year studying global public health on the pre-dental track. VAMUN was her first conference in high school, and she has had a passion for Model UN ever since. She can't wait to see what you bring to the table, and she is very excited for strong debate.

gaw2ww@virginia.edu