Overview
The African Union is a continental organization made up of 55 member states, created to promote unity, peace, and sustainable development across Africa. It serves as a platform for regional integration, collective diplomacy, and homegrown solutions to Africa’s challenges. The AU aims to strengthen economic ties, foster good governance, and support innovation as the continent faces rapid change and opportunity. It also places a crucial role in conflict resolution and peacekeeping efforts, working to ensure stability and security across the continent.
Topic 1: Advancing Technological Infrastructure in Africa
At this conference, the first topic will be Advancing Technological Infrastructure in Africa. Technological advancement is key to unlocking Africa’s development potential, but many countries still face a lack of digital infrastructure, unreliable internet access, and limited research investment. Delegates will address how to expand broadband, improve STEM education, and attract private-sector innovation. How can the AU foster regional digital integration and tech equity? Should a continental framework be created to guide national tech development plans? A unified push for digital growth could transform education, health, and entrepreneurship across Africa.
Topic 2: Combatting Infectious Diseases
Additionally, the second topic will be Combatting Infectious Diseases, which is an issue that unfortunately still plagues the continent. Infectious diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and Ebola continue to threaten public health in many AU member states. Weak healthcare systems, vaccine inequity, and insufficient emergency coordination exacerbate these risks. Delegates must explore how to strengthen regional disease surveillance, expand access to medicines, and invest in healthcare infrastructure. How can the AU lead continent-wide preparedness initiatives? What partnerships with global health bodies are most effective? Delegates must propose African-led solutions that prioritize resilience, equity, and rapid response capabilities.
The Dais
Nathaniel Barrett - Chair
Nathaniel Barrett (he/him/his) is a current Sophomore studying International Relations at Boston University and is originally from Bedford, New Hampshire. He is proud to serve as the Chair of the African Union committee at BosMUN 2025 and is eager for an exciting weekend of speech and debate focusing on continental cooperation and development.
Outside of the committee, Nathaniel is involved in various activities. He enjoys running and has a keen interest in public broadcasting. He also spends time reading and contributes his writing to the undergraduate publication, The International Relations Review.
The African Union committee will attempt to solve two very important issues facing the African continent: technological infrastructure and infectious diseases. These are complex, multifaceted problems requiring dynamic solutions, and delegates are highly encouraged to perform supplementary research on their country's history and position, especially regarding economic development.
Nathaniel emphasizes that maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment is critical and encourages delegates to participate in "Pre-Conference Training" if they would like specialized coaching. He looks forward to hearing their ideas.
Contact: barr3tt@bu.edu
Aadi Sethi - Vice Chair
Aadi Sethi (He/Him) is a freshman in the College of Arts and Sciences at Boston University, majoring in Economics and Philosophy and minoring in International Relations, with plans to attend law school. Originally from Rockland County, NY, just north of New York City, he is thrilled to serve as the Vice Chair for the African Union at BOSMUN XXV.
Aadi began participating in MUN during his junior year of high school and has since attended two Global Classrooms International MUN conferences in NYC, including opening ceremonies at the UN Headquarters. He fondly remembers his first conference, where the topic was the Integration of Africa into the World Trade System, reinforcing his interest in the continent's future.
Outside of MUN, Aadi is an athlete on the BU Sailing Team, a writer for the Boston Political Review, an editor for the undergraduate philosophy journal Arché, and a member of the Pre-Law Society. He also enjoys playing the cello, watching basketball, cooking, and exploring the city of Boston with his friends.
MUN is a powerful experience that has taught him valuable skills, including conducting research, writing, public speaking, and effective collaboration. Aadi hopes that whether this is a delegate's first conference or they are returning, they have a terrific time, learn a great deal, and meet new people.
Contact: asethi06@bu.edu