Edition 1 - The Gaudium School Model United Nations

The Gaudium Gazette

 Issue - #1 Sunday, December 1st

TGS MUN 2024: A Grand Opening Ceremony

The gaudium school model united nations event (MUN) kicked off with a vibrant opening ceremony on Saturday August 31st, 2024

The event began with a speech by Avni Bhandari and Prithvi Warrier; the USGs of Policy. They discussed the delegates sharing their unique ideas and listening to others in order to foster diplomatic progress. The conference mirrors real-world diplomacy, where compromise and cooperation are essential.

The goal of the MUN is to find common ground, build connections, and work towards peace, prosperity, and human dignity before officially declaring the conference open.

The Head Boy and the Head Girl made a grand entrance, introducing the Head of School (The Principal) Miss. Sudeshna Chatterjee, who set a positive tone to the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp amidst the soothing bhajans. The event was followed by a rich cultural heritage dance performance that captivated and mesmerized the audience.

In her address, Sudeshna Chatterjee emphasized the crucial role of the delegates in addressing global challenges and fostering peace. The event was further graced by the presence of Mr. Akhil Bery, the US consulate general in Hyderabad, who delivered a warm and inspiring speech about how integral MUNs were in his life to allow him to reach the pedestal he is at today. 

The Organizing Committee, the Executive Board (EB) and chairs of each committee were then introduced, and this year TGS MUN featured a diverse range of committees including the Lok Sabha, FIA, FCC, UNEA, UNDP, HRC, Historic SpecPol, WTO, UNHRC and the International Press. The ceremony concluded with a warm and heartfelt vote of thanks by the secretary general, Minnila Nalluri who acknowledged everyone's contributions in making TGS MUN ‘24 a smashing success. With the completion of the opening ceremony, the delegates were ready to delve into the complexity of global diplomacy and debate.

- Parnita Reddy Pandugala, IBDP II B

Beat Based Article - UNEA

Facing the battle against Earth’s death eater

Sruthi Vadali from the United Nations Environmental Assembly presents an in-depth coverage of the delegate of Barbados' despondence towards the negligence of developing nations from that of developed nations

Amidst the chaos caused by carbon emissions for the world over the past years, young representatives of developed nations, including the People’s Republic of China, have put out viable solutions to work towards a green future. Developed countries have kept boasting about their successful endeavors to reduce carbon emissions. Still, they forget their main target of assisting the island and developing nations to reduce their carbon emissions.

The Delegate of Barbados was the first island nation to call out this ignorant behavior and

mentioned that it is our job to call out the “bad guys” in restricting us from achieving our goal of reducing carbon emissions. 

They made it clear that carbon emissions are chewing away our chances of making our nation green and free of pollution. The continuous efforts and policies implemented have done a meager job, but the assistance of the developed nations can truly be put to use. Our nation is at a higher level in reducing the carbon emissions persisting in our country.

Additionally, the delegate insisted that we must foster international collaboration to make this a global effort as an ironic statement towards the developed nations’ redundant statements about their fruitful initiatives towards tackling this global issue. The delegate of Barbados’ went straight to the point in the assistance his nation required to achieve the set targets considering that Barbados was an island nation. Barbados’ plea for powerful nations to assist nations similar to themselves has been taken into consideration, but the minimal response has made the delegation desperate for more help.

 

A war on the bodies of the female race?

By Aishani Vallabhaneni reporting from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). An article about the topic of the informal debate.

Photo Credit: Shradha Singh

“Sexual assault is the only crime in which the victim becomes the accused”- Freda Adler.

 An estimated 6.7 million people are at risk of gender-based violence in Sudan, with displaced, refugee, and migrant women and girls particularly vulnerable.

 Reference- United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). 

During the debate, various countries voiced their concerns regarding the problem at hand and pondered upon possible solutions such as the promotion of safe spaces, increased funding, and diplomatic talks with the countries’ current heads. The delegate of Afghanistan stated that the enforcement in the affected areas remains doubtful, which seemed to be a mutually agreed upon statement by the other delegates. Statements like “horrific acts against women’s bodies”, and “condemning inter-partner sexual violence, and rapes especially by the RSF(Rapid Safety Forces)” hit the nail on the head and directed the conference, wide consensus was expressed by banging of the tables.

Additionally, crises/wars usually affect the minorities the most, namely being women, according to the delegates. Various UN agencies, including UN Women and UNICEF, have frequently reported that women and children bear the worst brunt of wars and crises. The reports emphasize that women and children are often targeted in conflicts and are disproportionately affected by the consequences, such as displacement, loss of livelihoods, and gender-based violence.

To explore a real-life “case”, Aisha (name changed due to personal reasons), a girl aged 17 was one of the worst-hit survivors of the ongoing crisis in Sudan according to UNFPA. She was a victim of a brutal gang rape. According to the report, she was continuously raped and/or sexually assaulted for four days until she left the place with her friends. After a few months, she discovered she was pregnant. Her friends abandoned her but she fortunately found refuge in a safe space supported by UNFPA.

To conclude, this is just the tip of the iceberg. According to the UNFPA, an innumerable quantity of ‘cases’ remain unreported due to the fear of being re-victimized, facing retribution, and so on. This conclusion brings us back to the quote with which we’ve started; “Sexual assault is the only crime in which the victim becomes the accused”.

FIA Article 

In the Fédération internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) committee of the TGS MUN 2024, the delegates discussed pressing issues in the world of Formula 1, which included the upcoming 2030 regulations, the controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and the balance between driver skill and technological aids. 

There were many delegates whose names stood out in the committee like Andy Cowell, Toto Wolff, and Peter Peroramo. The different approaches to 2023’s regulations, prioritized safety and aerodynamics. What the delegates debated about was the improved safety measures, they expressed their support in undertaking innovative aids like the X mode and the Z mode. The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a controversial race that ultimately decided the world championship, was a major point of discussion in this committee. The arguments that human errors occur and the outcome of upholding Max Verstappen's title should stand. 

Delegates engaged in a spirited debate over the role of overtaking aids in Formula 1. While some supported their use as a means to enhance racing and create more opportunities for overtaking, others expressed concerns about their potential to reduce the emphasis on driver skills. There were advocates for a balanced approach, suggesting that overtaking aids should be implemented in a way that complements driver abilities rather than overshadowing them. As the FIA Committee continues its deliberations, the delegates' proposals will shape the future of Formula 1 and ensure that the sport remains both exciting and fair for drivers and fans alike while assuring that safety is not an area that is compromised.

Interview 

Peter : This is Peter Peroramo the Technical Director of Aerodynamics of McLaren F1 Racing. 

The first agenda  is regarding the 2030 regulations for overtaking aids. Personally, in my opinion as Peter Peroramo, I would say that we focus on safety and aerodynamics as two separate parts. Safety, as we have seen in many F1 cars or motorsport normally, crashes happen and some cars are disintegrating or dismantling. Recently in the Monaco Grand Prix, Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez has been through an accident like the one I’m referring to. We need to focus on the driver's safety as in the end, it's the driver that's the most important part of the motorsport as cars can be remade at any time. Regarding overtaking aids, I have been in support of implementing new innovations such as the X mode and Z mode for the 2026 regulations of F1. I have also been introducing new kinds of topics such as bringing back the underbody designs for F1. They used to be the 1930s to 1980s if I'm not wrong We can also take inspiration from the LMP1 which is Le Mans Hypercar 1. It had movable flaps in its body which increased its track performance and F1 is fundamentally a track-based sport. And also regarding the overtaking aids, I would feel that it should be done reasonably and it should not reduce the reliance of the driver on his skill and specialty. In the end, it's the driver controlling the car, not the car helping the driver. Overtaking aids normally, as we all know, is a main and integral part of F1. So they should be focused, guidelines should be created, and also specific modes for specific tracks. 

OP-ED Historic SPECPOL Executive Board

 

The gavel felt heavy in my hand as I called the committee to order – but the weight of responsibility upon me was heavier still. Although nerve-wracking at first, my first time as an EB member in a major MUN was truly transformative.

My first impression of the committee was not more than a disappointment- slow, colorless, and inexperienced. With the agenda as compelling as the potential creation of the state of Israel, I arrived ready for thrilling debates and stirring controversies. Instead I was met with a humdrum crowd, showing no signs of eagerness. I have no issue leading a beginner committee, but it wasn’t the lack of knowledge that concerned me—it was the lack of excitement, the absence of passion. Everyone was left wondering, "What exactly is this resolution we are delegating for?" with periods defined but no clear end goal in mind. Nonetheless, with a personal connection to the topic and a strong passion for Middle Eastern studies, I am thrilled to be guiding a room full of young minds debating one of the most complex global issues. 

 

My role was rather simple. Maintaining the marking sheet and answering chits. I would mark delegates on various aspects including, lobbying, documentation, and participation, and by the end of the event I am certain I answered at least 80 chits, all POIs and POOs came in written format. Assuming a leadership position, I couldn’t look after the numbers only, I was tempted to interact, understand their goals and ideas for the committee, give advice, and most importantly observe their lobbying skills. We had recognized Israel, Palestine, China, and the USSR as high-potential delegates, but given the cultural and historical associations, it was expected that the whole committee would be actively involved, mirroring the controversy, energy, and prevalence of the topic in real life.

By the end of committee session two, still at the 3rd speaker , a new delegate joined the committee, a delegate who shifted from WTO and later came to be known as the delegate of Transjordan. The reason I highlight his role is thanks to his substantial influence on the development of the committee for the remaining sessions. I’m inclined to think that he paved the way for the element of spark and tension that is essential in a committee like this. Despite GSLs being a less controversial and more informative speech format, he started by attacking the UK and Israel and was keen to form a united front with fellow Arab members reflecting the eventual development of the Arab league. Every word in every speech would imply an attack, accusation, or polite insult, what better way to ignite a fire? 

 

On the second and last day of the committee, we were set for a last round of fiery debates and draft resolutions. After two moderated caucuses discussing territorial gains and a 2-state solution, a motion for consultations was introduced into the committee. The consultations were electric, with the debate between Israel and Transjordan growing more intense by the minute. Each side, fiercely arguing its stance on the creation of a Jewish state, left no room for compromise, trading sharp arguments about sovereignty, history, and responsibility. Meanwhile, the UK often found itself in heated exchanges, being overwhelmed by accusations of colonialism and exploitation by every committee member. The room buzzed with diplomatic tension, as delegates worked to sway the undecided nations. These moments, where ideology met realpolitik finally exemplified the high stakes of the agenda. At the end came four draft resolutions, each coalition with an aim to split the votes thereby ambushing the other three resolutions. In the end, it was Israel that was voted upon but did not pass as a split was created between neutral, western, and Arab states.

As the final gavel fell and the committee adjourned, I was left with more than just the satisfaction of a well-run debate. Although the draft resolution did not pass, the experience was anything but a failure. I watched as delegates grew into their roles, learned to work through the nuances of international diplomacy, and found their voices to speak on one of the world's most contentious issues. My first experience as an EB member was not to strive for a clear-cut solution but to develop this growth, spark passion, and realize the true power of diplomacy in action. I walked away knowing that leadership isn't about the outcome of a single session; it is about the lasting impacts you leave on those you guide. And to that extent, I found the committee to be a resounding success.

Interview :

Reporter : How is the committee ensuring and to extent have the preceding address the delegates understanding of the context and significance of the issue when discussing the potential  state of israel?

Eb1: so when the background guide was given to the committee it was was like very clear about what the aims of the committee are what um what the the historical context and significance is with the committee having strong oppositions from both sides so v have the strong arab league and the muslim representative at the same time v have um the jewish state with backup from uk because of the british mandate with backup from the US and occasional backup from denmark uh- actually consistent backup from denmark so um because of the historical significance its very it seemed very difficult in the committee to um form a solution because of the religious nature of the of the topic at hand so there is … its difficult to form to like to  come up with a solution that will address both the sentiments of both all three religious in jerusalem, the moderated caucus  are still addressing what um what solutions v have whether 2 party solutions 2 party state solutions are needed or 1 party or how the democracy or the government will sustain if there is only 1 party as a country 

Reporter :  ok and how is the committee addressing the potential contingencies like the opposition from the neighboring states or internal conflict 

Eb1 : when there has been occasional um occasional dialogue  between countries where if there is a country advocating for stability  there are other countries that are kind of questioning the- that countries domestics affairs but that response is mostly um happening like through pois (points of information) saying that they did not want intervention in their own internal affairs and this is being addressed to the other countries um in terms of neighboring- opposition from neighboring states again since its religious in nature a lot of um historical context that we have to uh take into consideration and then we had consultancies where every delegate can just stand up and speak where the most controversies occurred because of the the blocks being formed not officially but in terms of religion and what they represent  

Reporter : ok and what are the main objections that the committee aims to achieve by the end of the sessions and how do these align with the goals of peace and stability in the region?

Eb1 : ok so in terms of objectives we don't have specific aims that want to be achieved so the committee was not formed for the purpose of um achieving a 2 state solution or a one state solution to form  with the purpose of discussing the creation of the state of israel so because we are still in the discussion phase and not in the formation or the achievement phase so everyone is still talking about what is required, what is fair, what is ethical um so what we want to do is we want draft resolutions to um come up with solutions that will ensure peace and stability temporarily so right now we are not looking at any - we are not looking at 2 countries or 3 countries we are looking at how to protect and how to safeguard people because of the cultural implications of the region 

Reporter : So finally what diplomatic strategies will the committee explore to ensure that any proposed solutions are viable?

Eb1: so by the looks of the committee it is- they are finding it difficult to form multiple uh 2 major blocks because there are many contrasting views and many countries have not even formed yet because of the freeze date is november 1947 so in terms of diplomacy um there are some delegates that are going contradictory to the uh foreign policy of their individual nations that could be because of their influence of thor personal stance because of lack of research or whatever the factor bring so foreign policy is still being um its till um how to approach is still being clarifying to the delegates and in terms of propose solutions because we - we are looking at 5-6 draft resolutions it is difficult to pass a majority where everyone agrees  but again as i said that is because of the the nature of the issue that hand because of the controversies associated with it

Reporter : thank you so much 

Crisis deliberation: cruciality and significance

Aditi guddanti, FCC reporter, 31st august

Picture credits :Sadhu Haasini

The awaited debut of the Futuristic Crisis Committee kickstarter to be just as promising as it was anticipated. It remains baffling and obscure to be addressing such complex agendas entailing and evaluating real-life crises from a multinational perspective. Considering that the agenda emphasizes the cryptic relationship between America and China and their war-waging abilities in the near future, the committee highlights realistic approaches to possible prospective scenarios.

As addressed by countless delegates, the fragility of the China-America situation puts numerous countries at risk of displacement, considering the authority and sovereignty. persistently highlighted that both China and America possess formidable power when it comes to economic structure and government aspects. Although the two have untold flaws, they still stand on superior grounds. 

Genuinely, the given agenda kick-starts the endless need for futuristic crisis demands. Considerably, nothing can be foreseen but foreshadowed. Sometimes, it's almost impossible to predict what can be thrown at us. We humans have faced insanely ranged catastrophes that have toppled governments and displaced millions. It takes years to recover, and years to plan ahead. It's only after destructive complications that take a toll on countries, alarming them of possibilities in the near future. 

Circulating back to China and America, given the consideration of a possible world war, this could alone dislodge millions of lives for the sake of peace through destruction. Two contrasting countries with contrasting beliefs and conflicting ideals regulate beneficial changes for their own country through some sort of conflict. Given historical references, it's no mystery that violence and destruction would be an immediate answer. Although the dispute remains between the two countries, an unbounded number of countries get pulled into conflict unknowingly, compromising themselves as a country. 

Addressing the everlasting chances of untold conflict, the futuristic crisis committee focuses on the near future and the position we stand in then and there. Tackling the complexities of the futuristic crisis committee confided with realism and authenticity, it's crucial to consider the endless possibilities that lie ahead in the future. It's agendas like these that undoubtedly mold delegates into internationally esteemed positions. 

World Trade Organisation Interview :

Ruthwik Kusuma - I’m Ruthwik Kusuma, studying in the IBDP-2, and I’m the vice chair who’s also working with Vishwak on the committee of the “World Trade Organization’.

Reporter - Thank you so much for being here for this interview today. For the first question - How do the policy measures discussed in the committee consider the reduction or elimination of trade barriers, and how do they specifically address the digital divide?

Ruthwik Kusuma - Well, the first thing to address is we have not done much in our committee so far, not even started our moderated conference. Considering that we have not done much in the GSLs, the main thing I can see is that the delegates are agreeing on reducing the tariffs, imports, taxes, etc. Anything NDB-related they want to reduce, this is not exactly a positive or negative sign, it's just a sign that they have some sort of consciousness in trying to go in the right direction. Another thing I noticed is the delegate of China wishes to not at all indulge in such activities. The delegate of China believes that why should they support other countries’ economic challenges when it has its own country to worry about?

Reporter - How do the World Trade Organization and its delegates define the digital divide, and what according to you, are the most critical factors contributing to this gap between developing and developed countries?

Ruthwik Kusuma - The first part that we have not particularly addressed yet, but if you were to ask me what the biggest reason why the digital divide exists, it is simple. Supply and demand. In a village or any rural area, people would not need services such as Spotify Premium, Netflix, YouTube Premium, etc. They would not require such services, whereas, in an urban area or a developed country, people would utilize these services at a much higher rate than in rural areas or villages. It is simple, but the delegates have not addressed this problem yet. As such I cannot comment on that more.

Reporter - What are the primary goals the committee hopes to achieve by the end of the sessions, particularly regarding the digital divide and trade equity?

Ruthwik Kusuma - It’s simple really, we just wish to make it so that the gross domestic product- the GDP of every single country is reasonable and growing at a steady rate, and is all consistent. One country should not be extremely well developed while another country is just not very well developed. They should not be suffering and be down in the dumps while other countries are developing. We plan to make it so that it is easier for all countries and all parties involved to send out products, but we also need to put restrictions on countries like China, because China is the biggest exporter out of every single country. I as a chair believe that we need to address extreme exporting levels, like the level of exports that China does every year. The second we address this is when other countries would be able to step into the frame. China exports at such a cheap level of production that no one else would export at because their products wouldn’t be sold, they would stay on the shelves forever and it would just be a cost that they would incur forever. 

Reporter - What criteria will the committee use to evaluate and draft resolutions that address the trade barriers?

Ruthwik Kusuma - Well obviously the first thing that we all have to look at is the procedure. Is the draft resolution following the sample? Is it following the format? Is it following the regulations? Is it following the timeline? Once all these conditions are fulfilled, then we can go ahead with analyzing the draft resolution. However, my chair believes in the logic, the belief, the meaning behind the draft resolution. We do not believe in the formatting or the procedure of it because like that debate wouldn't go anywhere. Everyone would just be stuck with the formatting.  As such, Vishwak, the chair, and I are going to be working together, and we are going to be grading the draft resolution purely on its clauses, its preamps, and its amps. We are going to be grading it on that scale. If the countries agree with it, disagree with it, or if amendments need to be made we will also grade it on that basis. 

Reporter - Okay, thank you so much for being here today and answering these questions about your committee “‘The World Trade Organization”.

TGSMUN 2024: A Day of Speeches, Performances, and Awards

The TGSMUN 2024 concluded with a grand ceremony that showcased the talents, hard work, and achievements of the participating delegates, Organising Committees (OCs), Executive Board members, and others. The event began with addresses from the Masters of Ceremony, Avni Bhandari and Prithvi Warrier, followed by a thought-provoking speech from the school’s CEO, Shri Rama Krishna Reddy on the sustainable architecture and solar panel initiatives that Gaudium adopted as of late. The atmosphere was then electrified with a breathtaking performance from the Gaudium band, who captivated the audience with their renditions of popular songs like "Ilahi," "Sooraj Dooba Hai Yaaro," and a soulful song from the movie “Animal”. The event continued with the introduction of the Secretariat, followed by a show-stopping performance by the team that left the audience in awe.

To recognize exceptional contributions, the best Organising Committee members (OCs) were honoured, and the Secretariats were awarded for their dedication and leadership. The ceremony also celebrated the achievements of numerous special delegates, who were acknowledged for their hard work and contributions to the conference. Overall, TGSMUN 2024 was a whopping success, providing a platform for students to engage in meaningful discussions, develop critical thinking skills, and foster global awareness. The closing ceremony was a fitting climax of the event, showcasing the talent, passion, and commitment of all involved, while simultaneously rewarding those who put in the hard work to garner the success of the conference.

By Parnita Reddy Pandugala 

Editor-in-Chief : Anika Verma (anikaverma867@gmail.com)