United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Topic 1: Space security and militarization/international collaboration in space
Topic 2: Space debris removal
The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) has been tasked with addressing pressing issues surrounding outer space activities. As we look toward the future, our committee will delve into two critical topics: space debris removal and space militarization. Space debris, consisting of defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and other fragments, poses a significant threat to active satellites and spacecraft. Delegates will explore measures to mitigate this growing problem, considering both technological solutions, such as debris tracking and removal systems, and international cooperation frameworks to manage debris disposal and prevention. Regarding space militarization, delegates will address the complex challenges surrounding the potential weaponization of space. This topic will focus on ensuring the peaceful use of outer space while recognizing the legitimate security concerns of member states. Discussions may include arms control agreements, confidence-building measures, and the role of international organizations in preventing an arms race in space. The decisions made by delegates in this committee will play a crucial role in shaping the future of outer space activities, ensuring their sustainability and peaceful use for generations to come. The committee will take place in the present day, starting in November 2024.
co-chairs
Lily durden & Loring Spencer
Lily Durden is a second year from Charlottesville, Virginia majoring in Foreign Affairs. She has been involved in Model UN since her first year in college, serving as a junior staffer for both VICS and VAMUN. Outside of all things international relations, she enjoys baking, watching slightly ridiculous rom-coms, and reading. She is super excited to meet all of the delegates and is looking forward to a great conference!
qae4kj@virginia.edu
Loring Spencer is a fourth year from Charlottesville, VA majoring in Environmental Science. Outside of Model UN, she is on the UVA Ski & Snowboard team and Water Polo team. In the summer she lifeguards with Kill Devil Hills Ocean Rescue in the Outer Banks. This is her second time working behind the scenes of a Model UN conference so get hype!
als4kvk@virginia.edu