Theme & Principles

Conference Theme: We the Peoples 

"The words of the preamble in our Charter are engraved on the collective memory of mankind." - Kofi Annan

“We the Peoples”, the first three words of the preamble, distil the central qualities that have underpinned the United Nations for six decades. They establish its democratic foundation; they emphasise the existence of an international community instead of disparate states; and they reflect its fundamental nature as a collection of individuals, wildly diverse in culture, politics and circumstance, but each entitled to equal rights and each capable of contributing to the development of humanity. AMUNC should be imbued with a similar spirit; a sense among all delegates that they can make a difference by being actively involved in the proceedings, and an atmosphere that encourages attendees from all backgrounds to confidently share the perspective of the country or organisation they represent. Diversity in thinking and tolerance in debate are cornerstones of Sydney's conference ideal. They flow through to our mission statement and principles, and to specific programmes designed to attract delegates from a variety of contexts, empower them to create and advocate innovative solutions to global challenges, and support them with a responsive and caring conference environment.

Conference Principles

 Dignity 

"Determined to reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person"

Dignity is an essential human right which grows in importance as the world knits itself ever more tightly together. Every global citizen is worthy of equal and respectful treatment, even with differences in culture and values. At a forum like AMUNC, the sharing of ideas and forging of friendships depend on this ideal being upheld. It is incumbent on all attending to respect their fellow delegates and Directors, both in and outside the committee room. Our code of conduct and expansive Delegate Relations team will ensure that a Sydney AMUNC is a place where dignity is maintained as the foundation of a harmonious and open conference.

Justice

"Determined to establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained"

Justice is a concept firmly seated in the United Nations Charter, signed as a pledge to "save succeeding generations" from the horrors that result when leaders are not bound by standards of international law, however lofty their station. AMUNC likewise maintains a dedication to the fair application of rules to all representatives, irrespective of their country's weight. From the ideal of justice we must draw a belief in equity. Delegates should be able to attend from small and large universities, in developed and developing countries. In Sydney, this goal will be furthered through our schemes to aid regional expansion and support new delegations.

Progress

"Determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom"

The United Nations is an organisation driven by the global desire for progress: to create a more cohesive international system, spread respect for human rights, and establish a safer environment for each person and each nation to inhabit. In sharing a focus on finding solutions to our common challenges, AMUNC reflects this principle of progress. Our pre-conference education and engagement programme will emphasise the potential of each delegate to make constructive contributions, and equip them with the knowledge and confidence to do so. On a wider scale, we aim to achieve significant progress in the evolution of the conference itself. Our efforts to make AMUNC more accessible for both delegates and potential hosts will allow it to continue expanding its utility as a forum that engages young people and inspires them to work on the most pressing global problems.

Tolerance 

"Determined to practise tolerance and live together in peace with one another as good neighbours"

Tolerance is intrinsic to our theme of “We the Peoples”. The United Nations' status as the democratic parliament of humanity is predicated on acceptance of every viewpoint, except those rooted in tyranny. AMUNC must similarly provide a forum where every nation can be heard; a quality that is increasingly vital in the face of truly international issues like climate change, which demand we utilise the unique knowledge and expertise of every state. Sydney's focus on raising the standard of debate, educating delegates to promote diversity of viewpoints rather than constant bloc alignments, will provide the basis for a conference where Resolutions are woven as tapestries, reflecting all nations present, in an atmosphere of tolerance and respect.