World Health Organization (WHO)

Topic A: Healthcare Infrastructure in Conflict Zones

Modern day conflict has posed a greater danger to civilians than in the past. Fighting has shifted from remote battlefields into densely populated urban centers. In Ukraine, more than 10,500 civilians have been killed since the escalation of the war in 2022. As civilian residences and hospitals are facing destruction, healthcare infrastructure in war-torn cities has been weakened. This means that the world’s most vulnerable can no longer access medical treatment, medicine, or medical personnel. While it has been stated in International Humanitarian Law (IHL) that healthcare infrastructure can not be targeted in armed conflict, this tenet continues to be ignored. It is both timely and essential that we protect the healthcare capacities of countries at war. What are ways in which we can improve data collection on how often hospitals in conflict zones are facing attacks? What is the role that humanitarian organizations have to play in continuing care when healthcare infrastructure has broken down? Should hospitals be military assets in war?

Topic B: Manufactured Chemicals in Drinking Water

PFAS contamination in drinking water poses significant health risks. Long-term exposure to PFAS has been associated with increased cholesterol levels, changes in liver enzymes, immune system effects, developmental issues in infants and children, and elevated risks of certain cancers such as kidney and testicular cancer. Vulnerable populations, including low-income communities, are often disproportionately affected, as they are more likely to live near industrial sites and have less access to resources for mitigation and health care. The persistence and bioaccumulative nature of PFAS compounds exacerbate these health impacts, making it critical to address the contamination urgently. The economic importance and widespread nature of PFAS also presents challenges for the restriction of these chemicals. What inter-sectoral approaches can we take to prioritize environmental goals? How will we decide upon best-practices for each nation? How will we ensure compliance?

meet your chairs!

Chair: Noemie Veillette

Noemie is from Portland, Oregon, and is majoring in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Outside MUN, Noemie is a fellow for Service Focus and an enthusiastic participant in the Tabletop Gaming Club. In her free time, Noemie enjoys hiking, cooking new foods, and watching horror movies. Noemie is eager to chair the World Health Organization and can’t wait to meet the delegates!

CHAIR: Meghana Bhupati

Meghana is a junior in the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs on the pre-med track. Model UN has been one of the most rewarding parts of her Princeton experience so she is looking forward to making PMUNC just as enjoyable for delegates. Outside of MUN, Meghana is involved with Business Today and Naacho Dance Company on campus. She is looking forward to kicking off the World Health Organization committee very soon!