UN Legal Committee (Legal)

The Legal Committee deals primarily with legal matters and is the primary forum for the consideration of international law and other legal matters concerning the United Nations.

Topic A: how to address and respond to violent non-state actors 

Violent Non-State Actors (VNSAs) have become a central challenge to global peace and security, operating outside traditional state frameworks to pursue political, ideological, or economic goals through violent means. From terrorist groups like ISIS and Boko Haram to insurgencies and transnational criminal networks, VNSAs exploit weak governance, conflicts, and porous borders to gain power and influence. The United Nations has made strides in countering these actors through peacekeeping missions, sanctions, and international legal frameworks. However, the adaptability and transnational nature of VNSAs pose ongoing difficulties for global governance, leaving many questions regarding the balance between security and human rights, and the role of international cooperation in effectively mitigating these threats. 

Topic B: the role of universal jurisdiction

Universal jurisdiction is a principle in international law that allows states to prosecute individuals for serious international crimes, such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, irrespective of where the crime occurred or the nationality of those involved. This concept gained prominence after the Nuremberg Trials and has since been incorporated into various international treaties, including the Geneva Conventions. The principle's application has led to both successes and controversies, as seen in cases involving alleged war crimes by state leaders. While some states use universal jurisdiction to combat impunity, others criticize it as a tool for political maneuvering. The International Criminal Court (ICC) plays a complementary role, but enforcement challenges and political resistance continue to hinder the global pursuit of justice under this principle.

meet your chairs!

CHAIR: Tanner McNamara

tm0588@princeton.edu