Honorable chairs, esteemed delegates, and most distinguished guests,

My name is Jean H. , a junior at Hong Kong International School, and it is my honor to serve as the President of the United Nations Environmental Programme at SEOMUN XXVIII.

Amidst an ever-changing political landscape, it becomes easy to get swept away in a series of blaring headlines, volatile changes, and rapid evolutions of policy. However, this racing timeline often overshadows the problem of our environment that creeps gradually yet inevitably forward, manifested as the slow drip of melting ice caps and the tick of the countdown marking the day our natural resources will run dry. Thus, the United Nations Environmental Programme was established in 1972 following the landmark Stockholm Conference, aiming to address global environmental challenges by encouraging partnership in protecting our climate.

As such, considering SEOMUN’s theme Voices of Tomorrow, it is my hope that you will get to simulate how you fulfill that goal of addressing climate challenges by being the voice for issues that need to be spoken about. Over the course of the conference, you will learn to work collaboratively with fellow delegates to solve complex problems surrounding the global waste trade industry, the whaling and marine biodiversity crisis, and the water scarcity and management issue. You will practice how to balance personal and global interests, broaden your scope of understanding on niche topics, and develop your ability to serve as an advocate for our world.

I look forward to bearing witness to a high caliber of constructive yet competitive debate, but I hope SEOMUN will reward you with experiences you carry far beyond the conference. The skills you hone, knowledge you gain, and connections you build at MUN conferences are invaluable to your future. On behalf of the SEOMUN XXVIII UNEP chairs, good luck with all preparation, and see you in October!

Best wishes,

Jean H.