UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL

CONTENT

INTRODUCTION 01
MESSAGE FROM THE
PRINCIPAL 02
MESSAGE FROM THE
SECRETARY GENERAL 03
MESSAGE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE BOARD 04
BACKGROUND (UNSC) 05
 INTRODUCTION TO
DAVMUN
DAV Public School, BRS Nagar, Ludhiana invites you to participate in its
prestigious Model United Nations conference, DAV MUN 2024.
Scheduled for October 23rd and 24th, this event offers a platform for
students to step into the shoes of global diplomats, engaging in spirited
debates and fostering international understanding.

By assuming the roles of UN delegates, participants will hone essential

skills such as public speaking, critical thinking, negotiation, and
diplomacy. As you delve into complex global issues, you will develop a
deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of our world.

DAV MUN 2024 is more than just a conference; it is an experience.

We encourage students from all backgrounds to participate. Whether

you are a seasoned MUN veteran or a first-time delegate, DAV MUN
2024 offers a supportive and inclusive environment for personal and
intellectual growth. Join us as we create a platform for young minds to
shape the future.

Register and learn more about committee allocations, please visit our
official website or contact the MUN coordinators at the school. Your
journey towards becoming a global leader starts here.

01 En g ag e , D e b ate , Tr an s f or m
 MESSAGE
FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Dear Delegates,
It is an honour and privilege for us to host this year's
most remarkable event – The Model United Nations
(MUN) Conference at DAV. As the Head of the
institution and the Patron of DAVMUN ’24, I am
delighted to extend invitation to a multitude of
brilliant young minds from across the nation to our
campus.

As we navigate a world rife with various crises and

challenges today, it becomes pertinent for us to
prepare the future generation to deliberate and find
practical solutions to the most pressing global issues.
The future may appear deluded and daunting, but it is
By addressing real-world challenges, we aim
our duty to strengthen the qualities of head, hand and
to equip our participants with the knowledge
heart of today's youth to envision and create a better
and skills needed to make meaningful
world for themselves and for the humanity.
contributions.

At DAV, we recognize the critical need to guide and

Our esteemed institution is honoured to host the
cultivate the potential of young minds. It is with
passionate and insightful youth of the 21st
great pride that we undertake this responsibility. At
Century, all united by a commitment to positive
DAVMUN '24, we strive to create a forum for
change.
expanding perspectives, enabling participants to
delve into current global issues and prepare them to
With a focus on World Peace and Unity, I
take on the responsibilities of a better tomorrow.
eagerly anticipate the opportunity to connect
with you, the future leaders, with a vision and
DAVMUN '24 with its tagline “engage, debate and
ambition to effect change—at the DAVMUN
transform” promises to offer a unique chance for
’24.
delegates to deliberate on critical global issues,
Best Wishes!
fostering a deeper understanding and encouraging
J.K. Sidhu
innovative solutions.
Principal

02 En g ag e , D e b ate , Tr an s f or m
 MESSAGE
FROM THE SECRETARY GENERAL

Dear Delegates,
With immense enthusiasm and anticipation, I
warmly welcome you to the second edition of
DAVMUN 24, scheduled to take place at DAV
Public School, Ludhiana, on the 23rd and 24th
of October. Having engaged in numerous
distinguished MUNs, our team was inspired to
create a platform that champions change and
progress, giving rise to DAVMUN. We are
steadfast in our dedication to upholding the
core values of the DAV Model United Nations,
and we eagerly invite you to join us on this
exceptional journey.

John F. Kennedy once wisely remarked,

"Leadership and learning are indispensable to
each other.“ With a dedicated Organizing Committee
DAVMUN is envisioned as a forum where working tirelessly to deliver the best possible
individuals of like mind can demonstrate their event, a distinguished Executive Board
political insight and diplomatic finesse. This providing invaluable insights, and an
conference is crafted to bring forth debates environment that motivates you to achieve
that are not only intense but are driven by extraordinary feats, we are confident that this
sharp and thoughtful intellects. conference will be nothing short of
Meticulously organized by a passionate team remarkable. Your participation, alongside an
of talented individuals, DAVMUN 24 energetic Secretariat and an experienced
promises to offer an experience that will be organizing team, is the key to creating a truly
both memorable and enriching, leaving you outstanding experience. Therefore, DAVMUN
with a profound understanding of the complex 24 is not just another event; it is the launchpad
world we navigate. for what could be your most inspiring MUN
journey yet. We look forward to witnessing the
The conference is designed to provide a brilliance you will bring to this stage.
rigorous, high-stakes environment that will
Warm Regards,
test both the composure and quick thinking of
delegates and Chairs alike. As you prepare to Arshita
engage in this forum, don your diplomatic
mindset, dissect the facts, devise strategies,
and work collaboratively to contribute toward
a better global community.

03 En g ag e , D e b ate , Tr an s f or m
 MESSAGE
FROM THE EXECUTIVE BOARD

Welcome to DAVMUN 24. We are beyond excited to meet you and are eager to
welcome you at two days of productive and stimulating debating. For us, Model
United Nations have become integrated into our lifestyle; we view it as
educational as much as it's empowering to have the ability to construct opinions
on global issues through the eyes of several different countries. We hope that as
soon as you log into the committee session, you learn something new and that
hopefully by the end of the conference you have grown in one way or another;
whether it's your ability to overcome your fear of public speaking or your ability
to lead large groups of people.

If this is your first Model United Nations Conference, then don't worry too much
and feel free to approach any of us at any point in the conference if you need any
form of support. Please do not hesitate to reach out to any of us for any concerns
you have. We cannot wait to meet all of you!

Eklavya A Grover Rehmat Gill

Chairperson Vice Chairperson
6280155892. 9815075265

04 En g ag e , D e b ate , Tr an s f or m
 ABOUT THE COMMITTEE

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six principal organs of the United
Nations, and it holds primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and
security. Established in 1945 following the Second World War, the UNSC was designed to
prevent future conflicts of global scale, making it the most authoritative body within the UN. What
sets the UNSC apart from other UN entities is its ability to make decisions that are legally binding
on all 193 member states. This gives it a unique and critical role in international diplomacy,
conflict resolution, and global security governance. The UNSC can take a wide range of actions
to preserve or restore peace, including imposing economic sanctions, mandating arms
embargoes, establishing peacekeeping operations, and, in extreme cases, authorizing the use of
military force. It also plays a significant role in conflict resolution by facilitating peace negotiations
and establishing post-conflict recovery programs. Additionally, the UNSC has the power to refer
situations to the International Criminal Court (ICC) or create special tribunals to prosecute war
crimes and crimes against humanity, demonstrating its broad influence on international law.

The structure of the UNSC reflects the geopolitical realities of the post-World War II era. It is
composed of 15 members, which include five permanent members (P5): China, France, Russia,
the United Kingdom, and the United States. These permanent members have veto power,
meaning any one of them can block a substantive resolution, even if it has majority support from
the rest of the council. This veto power gives the P5 disproportionate influence over the UNSC’s
decisions, allowing them to shape international policy according to their national interests. The
remaining 10 members are non-permanent, elected by the UN General Assembly for two-year
terms. These non-permanent members represent different regions of the world and are expected
to bring a balance of perspectives to UNSC discussions. However, they do not possess veto
power, which often limits their influence in critical decisions.

The UNSC’s mandate includes not only responding to conflicts but also taking proactive steps to
prevent them. This involves addressing underlying causes of instability, such as poverty, human
rights violations, and environmental degradation. The council can issue resolutions that call for
peaceful dispute settlement, request international monitoring, or deploy peacekeeping forces to
conflict zones. Its role extends to broader issues of global security, including counterterrorism,
non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and the protection of civilians in war zones.
The decisions taken by the UNSC, especially on urgent global crises, have far-reaching
implications, making it a central platform for diplomacy, negotiation, and international cooperation
in maintaining global peace.t

05 E ngage, Debate, Transform

HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

The topic "Deliberation of India's Destiny: Aligning to West or East" is

deeply rooted in the historical evolution of India's foreign policy and its
strategic choices in response to global power dynamics. Since gaining
independence in 1947, India has faced the challenge of positioning itself in
a world dominated by rival superpowers, and its approach has evolved
through distinct phases influenced by changing geopolitical realities.

POST-INDEPENDENCE AND THE BIRTH OF

NON-ALIGNMENT (1947-1960S)

At the dawn of independence, India, under Prime Minister Jawaharlal

Nehru, sought to forge a unique path in international relations, distancing
itself from the ideological battle between the United States-led Western bloc
and the Soviet Union-led Eastern bloc. Nehru was a proponent of peaceful
coexistence and mutual respect among nations, which led to the
formulation of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in 1961, alongside
leaders like Yugoslavia's Josip Broz Tito and Egypt's Gamal Abdel Nasser.
NAM aimed to provide a platform for newly independent countries, primarily
in Asia and Africa, to pursue policies free from the influence of the
superpowers. This policy allowed India to maintain strategic autonomy while
receiving economic and military assistance from both blocs.

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HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Tilt Towards the Soviet Union (1970s-1980s)

The geopolitical situation took a significant turn in the 1970s with the
warming of relations between the United States and Pakistan, and later, the
United States and China. These developments, coupled with regional
threats such as the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, compelled India to
seek stronger support from the Soviet Union. The Indo-Soviet Treaty of
Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation signed in 1971 symbolized this shift,
providing India with political and military backing during its conflict with
Pakistan and the subsequent creation of Bangladesh. Throughout the
1970s and 1980s, the Soviet Union emerged as India's primary defense
supplier, offering advanced military technology, economic aid, and strategic
support. This partnership was crucial in countering U.S. influence in South
Asia, particularly as the United States continued to support Pakistan both
economically and militarily

End of the Cold War and Economic Liberalization

(1990s)

The end of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991
forced India to reassess its foreign policy in a unipolar world dominated by
the United States. Faced with an economic crisis, India, under Prime
Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao and Finance Minister Manmohan Singh,
initiated sweeping economic reforms, liberalizing its economy and opening
up to global trade and investment. This period marked the beginning of
India's closer engagement with the West, particularly the United States.
However, India continued to maintain a strong relationship with Russia, the
successor state to the Soviet Union, which remained a key defense partner.

07 E ngage, Debate, Transform

 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Nuclear Tests and Strategic Realignment (1998-

2000s)
India's 1998 nuclear tests, conducted under Prime Minister Atal Bihari
Vajpayee, represented a bold assertion of its strategic autonomy but led to
widespread international condemnation and sanctions, particularly from the
United States. This strained relations temporarily but also prompted a
strategic dialogue between India and the United States, culminating in the
historic Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement of 2008 under Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh and U.S. President George W. Bush. This agreement
recognized India as a responsible nuclear state and opened the door for
civil nuclear cooperation, symbolizing a significant shift in India's alignment
towards the West.

Balancing Act in a Multipolar World (2010s-

Present)

In the 2010s, the global order began to shift towards multipolarity with the
rise of China as a global power and the resurgence of Russia under
Vladimir Putin. India has sought to navigate these complex dynamics by
strengthening its strategic partnerships with the United States, Japan, and
Australia, particularly through initiatives like the Quadrilateral Security
Dialogue (QUAD), aimed at countering China’s growing influence in the
Indo-Pacific. Simultaneously, India has continued to engage with Russia to
secure its defense needs and energy supplies, despite Western sanctions
and pressure following events like the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and
the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

08 E ngage, Debate, Transform

 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
Impact of Recent Conflicts and Geopolitical
Tensions
Recent geopolitical conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the U.S.-
China rivalry, have further complicated India's strategic choices. The
Russia-Ukraine war has polarized the international community, with the
West imposing severe sanctions on Russia. India, reliant on Russian
military equipment and energy, has found itself under pressure to condemn
Russian actions but has maintained a neutral stance, calling for dialogue
and peace. On the other hand, the escalating U.S.-China tensions,
particularly over trade and security issues in the South China Sea and
Taiwan, have implications for India's own border disputes with China. These
conflicts underscore the difficulty of India's position as it seeks to balance
its historic relationships with the East and its growing engagement with the
West.
India’s Strategic Autonomy and Future
Considerations
Throughout these historical phases, the core principle of India's foreign
policy has been the pursuit of strategic autonomy—maintaining
independence in decision-making while engaging with multiple global
powers. Today, India’s strategic choices are influenced by its need to
secure national security, foster economic growth, and enhance its role as a
global power. Whether India tilts more towards the West, with its promise of
technological and economic collaboration and a rules-based international
order, or towards the East, with its traditional ties and regional stability
considerations, will have profound implications for its future and the global
geopolitical landscape.

This historical overview highlights the complexity of India’s foreign policy

and the ongoing deliberation over its strategic alignment, a decision that is
not merely about choosing sides but about crafting a path that secures its
national interests in a rapidly changing world.
09 E ngage, Debate, Transform
 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Maintaining Strategic Autonomy:

● Non-Alignment Dilemma: India has historically pursued a policy of

non-alignment to maintain independence in its foreign policy decisions. As
global polarization increases, preserving this strategic autonomy becomes
more challenging. Aligning too closely with either the East or the West could
undermine India’s traditional stance of non-alignment and limit its flexibility
in responding to global events.
● Balancing Multiple Partnerships: India needs to balance its
partnerships with the United States, Russia, China, and other global powers
without appearing to fully align with any one bloc. This balancing act is
increasingly difficult as global tensions rise and countries are pressured to
take sides.

Geopolitical Pressures:

● U.S.-China Rivalry: The intensifying rivalry between the United States

and China poses a significant challenge for India, which shares a long and
contentious border with China. Aligning more closely with the U.S. could
exacerbate tensions with China, while any engagement with China could
strain its relations with the U.S.
● Russia-Ukraine Conflict: India’s close defense ties with Russia are
under strain due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Western countries have
imposed sanctions on Russia and pressured India to distance itself from
Moscow, challenging India’s ability to balance its historical ties with Russia
and its growing engagement with the West.

10 E ngage, Debate, Transform

 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Regional Security Concerns:

● Border Disputes with China: Ongoing border disputes, such as the

standoff in the Ladakh region, pose a continuous threat to India's security.
Strengthening ties with the West, particularly through initiatives like the
Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), may be seen as antagonistic by
China, leading to further military confrontations.
● Pakistan Factor: Pakistan remains a key security challenge for India,
especially given its close military and strategic ties with both China and the
United States at different points. Any shift in India’s alignment could impact
its relations with Pakistan and influence the regional security dynamic.

Economic Dependencies and Opportunities

:● Dependence on Russian Defense Supplies: India is heavily reliant on

Russia for its military hardware and technology. Moving away from Russia
could disrupt its defense capabilities in the short term, necessitating
significant investments to diversify its defense procurement.
● Trade Relations with China: Despite strategic and security concerns,
China is one of India’s largest trading partners. Escalating tensions could
impact economic relations, disrupt supply chains, and negatively affect
India’s economic growth and manufacturing sector.

11 E ngage, Debate, Transform

 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Global Governance and Influence:

● Aspiration for a UNSC Permanent Seat: India’s quest for a permanent

seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) requires broad
international support. Aligning too closely with either the East or the West
could alienate other key players and reduce its chances of garnering the
consensus needed for this objective.
● Role in Global Organizations: As India aspires to play a larger role in
global governance, it must navigate the complex politics of institutions like
the United Nations, BRICS, and the G20, where competing interests of both
the Western and Eastern blocs are at play.
.

Domestic Political and Social Considerations:

Public Opinion: Domestic public opinion plays a crucial role in shaping

foreign policy. Shifts in alignment could be unpopular or controversial,
especially if they lead to perceived compromises in national security or
economic stability.
Economic and Social Stability: Economic challenges such as
unemployment, inflation, and social inequalities can limit India’s ability to
project power abroad. A focus on external alignments without addressing
internal stability could lead to domestic discontent and weaken the
government’s foreign policy mandate.

12 E ngage, Debate, Transform

 HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Technological and Strategic Partnerships:

Access to Advanced Technology: Aligning with the West could facilitate

access to advanced defense and technological innovations. However,
dependence on Western technology could make India vulnerable to supply
chain disruptions and geopolitical pressures.
Cybersecurity and Data Sovereignty: As a growing digital economy, India
faces challenges in securing its data and infrastructure. Strategic
alignments may influence its policies on data sovereignty and digital
governance.
.

Long-Term Strategic Interests:

Navigating a Multipolar World: The global order is increasingly multipolar,

with rising powers like China, and regional blocs like the European Union
asserting influence. India must navigate this complex environment to
protect its interests and enhance its global standing.
Climate Change and Sustainable Development: Global cooperation is
essential for addressing climate change, a priority for India given its
vulnerability to environmental challenges. Aligning too closely with one bloc
could hinder collaboration on this global issue.

NOTE - THE CHALLENGES PROVIDED ABOVE ARE CRUXED AREAS

WHICH SHOULD BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION IN THE
COMMITTEE. TOPICS BEYOND GIVEN CHALLENGES ARE
WELCOMED BY THE BOARD BUT RELEVANT TO THE TOPIC.

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 POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
For Beginners

1) India could pivot more toward the East, particularly by

deepening its relations with Russia, China, and
regional organizations like BRICS (Brazil, Russia,
India, China, South Africa) or the Shanghai
Cooperation Organization (SCO).

2) India could pursue a hybrid approach, working with

different partners on an issue-by-issue basis rather
than choosing a permanent alignment with either bloc.

3) India could reinforce its policy of strategic autonomy,

continuing to resist formal alliances and maintaining its
independence in decision-making

4) Aligning more closely with the United States and its

allies in the West, particularly through partnerships like
Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), would allow
India to counterbalance China’s growing influence in
the Indo-Pacific region.

14 E ngage, Debate, Transform

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER

● How has India's policy of non-alignment influenced its

historical relationships with both Western and Eastern
blocs?
● What were the key factors that led India to strengthen
its ties with the Soviet Union during the Cold War?
● How has the Russia-Ukraine war affected India's
relationship with Russia and its stance on Western
sanctions?
● In what ways has the U.S.-China rivalry influenced
India’s strategic and security policies, particularly in the
Indo-Pacific region?
● What are the benefits and risks of India strengthening
its defense and economic ties with the United States
and other Western allies?
● How can India balance its defense and energy needs
while maintaining a strong relationship with Russia,
especially under the current geopolitical pressure?
● What role do economic factors, such as trade,
investment, and technology transfers, play in India’s
potential alignment with the West?

15 E ngage, Debate, Transform

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER

● How can India leverage its economic relationships with

Eastern powers, including China, while addressing strategic
concerns like the border disputes?
● How do regional security threats, such as China’s increasing
influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean, shape India’s
alignment decisions?
● What role does Pakistan play in India’s strategic calculus,
given its alliances with both China and the United States?
● How could aligning more closely with the West impact India’s
aspirations for a permanent seat on the United Nations
Security Council (UNSC)?
● What influence could India have in shaping a multipolar world
order by balancing its relationships with both Eastern and
Western powers?
● How do domestic political and economic factors influence
India’s foreign policy decisions regarding alignment?
● What is the public opinion in India regarding closer ties with
the United States versus maintaining strong relationships with
traditional allies like Russia?
● What are the long-term implications for India’s strategic
autonomy if it chooses to align more closely with either the
Western or Eastern blocs?
● How can India position itself as a global leader and mediator
in a world increasingly divided by geopolitical rivalries?

16 E ngage, Debate, Transform

 PROOF/ EVIDENCES IN THE
COMMITTEE

1. Government Reports: These reports can be used in a similar way as

the State Operated News Agencies reports and can, in all circumstances,
be denied by another country. However, a nuance is that a report that is
being denied by a certain country can still be accepted by the Executive
Board as credible information. Some examples are-
a. Government Websites like the –
State Department of the United States of America -
[Link]
Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation
[Link]
b. Multilateral Organizations
The NATO ([Link]
ASEAN ([Link]
2. UN Reports: All UN Reports are considered credible information
or evidence
a. UN Bodies
− UNSC ([Link]
− UNGA ([Link]
b. UN Affiliated bodies
− The International Atomic Energy Agency ([Link]
− World Bank ([Link]
− International Monetary Fund ( [Link] )
− ICRC ([Link]
c. Treaty-Based Bodies
− the Antarctic Treaty System ([Link]
− International Criminal Court ([Link]

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 PROOF/ EVIDENCES IN THE
COMMITTEE

3. News Sources:
a. REUTERS – Any Reuters article which clearly makes mention
of the fact stated or is in contradiction of the fact being stated by
another delegate in the Council can be used to substantiate
arguments in the committee. ([Link]
b. State-Operated News Agencies – These reports can be used
in the support of or against the State that owns the News Agency.
These reports, if credible or substantial enough, can be used in
support of or against any country as such but in that situation,
they can be denied by any other country in the council. Some
examples are,
I. RIA Novosti (Russia) [Link]
II. IRNA (Iran) [Link]

4. Under no circumstances will sources like Wikipedia

([Link] Amnesty International (http://
[Link]/), Times of India ([Link]
[Link]/) be accepted in the Assembly

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