Seas of Justice: Tackling Illicit Maritime Activity
General Assembly
As global trade continues to thrive on the world’s oceans, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) plays a critical role in ensuring maritime safety, security, and environmental sustainability. However, illicit maritime activity—including piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, and environmental crimes—threatens the stability of international waters and the global economy.
This year’s MariMUN conference will focus on tackling illicit maritime activity and ensuring maritime security. Delegates will examine the multifaceted challenges posed by criminal activity in maritime trade, as well as the significant economic and environmental impacts of these crimes on coastal communities and global markets. Discussions should touch on the need for enhanced regional cooperation, international collaboration, investment in technology, and community engagement to combat these threats and secure the world's maritime trade routes for the future. Delegates will ultimately find concrete ways to strengthen maritime governance and develop strategies to protect international waters from illicit activity.
Background guide
Position paper submission
Meet the dais
Kathryn Batchtold
Kathryn is a second-year Psychology major at Concordia University that will have the utmost privilege of serving as the Co-Chair of this committee. She currently works at Montreal’s Research Chair on Gambling Studies and spends her free time vibing to house music. Kathryn’s involvement and commitment to MUN further blossomed when she had the honour of taking on the role of USG Crises during MariMUN’s 36th iteration. Her first experience with MUN was being a delegate in a 2019 SSUNS crisis committee after which she fell in love with the twists and turns of crises. This being her first time chairing a GA, she’s excited to be on the other end of the political debates, critical thinking and important discussions that shape solutions to real global challenges.
Meghan Mellor
Hi everyone! My name is Meagan Mellor (they/she) and I’ll be one of the GA Co-Chairs! This is my third year with MariMUN! I’ve been a delegate, staffer, executive, and secretariat member—and now a proud alum! Currently, I study at the University of Toronto—a school I fell in love with thanks to NAMUN 2023! I can’t wait to witness all the thoughtful collaborations and life-long memories this year’s conference will hold!
Alexandra Muravetchi
Hi! I’m Alex and I’ll be your Vice-Chair for the Seas of Justice GA! I’m a recent Marianopolis graduate and I’m currently attending the University of Ottawa law school. Model UN was a big part of my cegep experience, I loved every part of it. I can’t wait to meet you all and hear your takes on the topic! If I was to give some advice, just remember that every point you want to say matters, especially if it hasn’t been said before! Be original and have fun!