Women’s Council Highlights: Session 4 Recap.

On January 13th, during the 4th session of the MUNUM 2024 conference, the Women's Council

engaged in heated discussions surrounding various resolution papers. The debate focused on

their similarities, the possibility of merging, and the potential cancellation of certain resolutions.

These deliberations, marked by clear tension, permeated the room.

A pivotal moment occurred when the delegation of France, a key participant in the conference,

claimed that the country's top priority was the passage of the WSW (Women Support Women)

paper. This collaborative effort involving France, Armenia, Gambia, and the United States

emphasized the significance of economic mobility for women. France added, asserting, "Single

mothers are very vulnerable and in need of higher education."

Another noteworthy paper, "The Beast," sponsored by Belgium, shared similarities with the

French resolution. France expressed a desire to merge the resolutions, but whether this occurred

remained uncertain as the room transitioned to voting on another resolution. "The Beast"

prioritized childcare, higher education, transportation availability, and workplace regulations to

protect women. France acknowledged the CCS paper, expressing uncertainty about a merger but

voicing support.

Before returning to debates, France emphasized the need for delegates to understand that

traditional values should not dictate gender roles. This statement possibly targeted another

resolution titled "Barbie," inspired by the recent Barbie movie, aiming to protect countries

resistant to modern gender progress, including Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Iraq, and

Nigeria. Opposition to the Barbie paper was evident, with strong resistance from sponsoring

countries.

Approximately 20 minutes before the committee adjourned, the SPPARKLE paper took the

spotlight but remained unvoted upon. Rumors circulated: it did not pass, despite the positive

outlook expressed by the Algerian delegation, a member of the SPPARKLE block, who claimed,

"We work well together... it should be good... it’s a good mix of developed countries."

The Women's Council, with seven more meetings ahead, faces the daunting task of finalizing the

remaining papers. Best wishes to the WC as they navigate the challenges of a divided committee.

Reported by Isabella M. Doss (IPC delegate MUNUM 2024)