UNDP Background Guide
GMUN, July 29th, 2025
Date: Tuesday, July 29th, 2025
Committee: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Agenda: Prioritising Development Aid in the Climate Crisis: Support for Developed vs. Developing
Nations
Committee Leadership
The UNDP session will be led by the Head Chair, who will be chosen from Our Own High School, Al
Warqa’a. The co-chair that will be leading the committee will be chosen from GEMS Modern
Academy, Kochi, at the discretion of the Head Chair and the admins through an application form.
Introduction to the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP)
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network. It
advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people
build a better life. UNDP is on the ground in nearly 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate
poverty, reduce inequalities and exclusion, and build resilience so countries can sustain progress. As
a key player in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP's work is crucial for achieving the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Objectives of the Simulation
This simulation aims to:
Develop a deeper understanding of the UNDP's mandate and operations.
Explore the complexities of climate finance and development aid.
Enhance research, public speaking, and negotiation skills.
Foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Promote collaboration and diplomacy among participants.
Session Breakdown
Time | Activity
---|---
2:00 - 2:10 PM | Opening Ceremony and Roll Call
2:10 - 3:00 PM | General Speaker's List: Opening Statements
3:05 - 4:00 PM | Topic Discussion and Moderated Caucuses
4:00 - 4:30 PM | Unmoderated Caucuses: Bloc Formation and Resolution Drafting
4:30 - 5:00 PM | Presentation of Draft Resolution and the Award Ceremony
Possible Country Matrix
Developed Nations
United States of America
United Kingdom
Germany
France
Japan
Canada
Australia
South Korea
Italy
Spain
Netherlands
Switzerland
Sweden
Norway
Denmark
Finland
Austria
Belgium
Ireland
Singapore
Israel
Developing Nations
India
China
Brazil
South Africa
Nigeria
Indonesia
Pakistan
Bangladesh
Egypt
Kenya
Philippines
Vietnam
Argentina
Thailand
Colombia
Malaysia
Peru
Ethiopia
Uganda
Ghana
Tanzania
Topic Background: Prioritising Development Aid in the
Climate Crisis
The climate crisis presents a unique challenge to global development. Developing nations, often the
least responsible for climate change, are disproportionately affected by its impacts, including extreme
weather events, sea-level rise, and resource scarcity. Developed nations, while possessing greater
resources and technological capacity, also face climate-related challenges.
This situation raises critical ethical and practical questions regarding the distribution of development
aid in the context of climate change. Should aid be prioritised towards developing nations to enhance
their resilience and adaptive capacity? Or should developed nations receive assistance to mitigate
their own emissions and address domestic climate impacts? Furthermore, what criteria should be
used to allocate climate finance effectively and equitably?
Key areas of consideration include:
The principle of common but differentiated responsibilities: Recognizing that developed
nations have a historical responsibility for climate change, while developing nations have the
right to develop sustainably.
Adaptation vs. Mitigation: Balancing the need for adaptation measures in vulnerable countries
with the urgency of mitigating greenhouse gas emissions globally.
Technology Transfer: Facilitating the transfer of clean technologies from developed to
developing nations to accelerate sustainable development.
Capacity Building: Investing in education, training, and institutional strengthening to empower
developing nations to address climate challenges.
Transparency and Accountability: Ensuring that climate finance is used effectively and
efficiently, with clear monitoring and reporting mechanisms.
Delegates are encouraged to research their assigned country's position on these issues and develop
innovative solutions to address the challenges of climate aid distribution.
Awards
Awards note:
The awards given out will be the Best Delegate, Runner Up Best Delegate, Best Speaker and the
Runner Up Best Speaker.
The Chairs decisions will be final and there will be no amendments.