Emerging Technologies
November 18, 2023
Honored Delegates, Dedicated Advisors, and Guests,
Technology throughout history has greatly influenced the human condition by fundamentally
changing how humanity interacts with the world and with each other. Entire decades
and
centuries have been defined by key technological developments. Agriculture helped
form the beginnings of human civilization, the invention of the steam engine propelled
us into the
Industrial Revolution, and nuclear technology may be the key to a sustainable earth.
However, technology has not always been a positive influence on humanity. Each of
these historical periods was fraught with challenges and difficulties that were the
result of these key technological developments occurring–many of which we continue
to face today. Agriculture requiring scarce resources induced groups to fight with
one another, the steam engine increased economic output to such an extent that it
resulted in inhumane labor standards to keep pace, and nuclear technology forever
changed warfare and international relations.
In the present day, contemporary society finds itself again confronted by the limitless
potential that new technology presents, both the good and the bad. Artificial intelligence,
drones, and automation are but a few upcoming technologies that can change entire
sectors and consequently the global landscape. It is in humanity’s best interest to
carefully scrutinize the implications and outcomes that modern, emerging technology
brings to the world.
Therefore, the Model United Nations of Alaska Fall Conference–on November 18th–presents
an opportunity for all of us to reflect and consider how advancements in technology
will affect the world around us. The committees for this Fall Conference will include
the Security Council (SC), Arctic Council (AC), Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
(PFII), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and two International
Telecommunications Union (ITU) committees–one will focus on Affordability, Accessibility,
and Development, while the other will focus on Cybersecurity and AI. These committees,
through their respective lenses and unique resolutions, will have their members address
the idea of the conference’s topic: “Emerging Technology”.
Determining the value and harm that new technologies create is no easy task. It will
take meaningful conversations, heated discussions, and intentional research, but anything
worthwhile will always be difficult. So I encourage each and every one of you to strive
to do good, effective work–but most importantly have fun!
Sincerely,
Secretary-General Caleb Yabes
Model United Nations of Alaska 2023-2024