Overview
This is a novice committee. It is recommended that delegates who are new to crisis compete in this committee.
This committee will function as a traditional crisis committee, with an emphasis on teaching foundational MUN crisis skills. The committee will function on a two-pad note system, where delegates will be given two legal notepads to write their crisis notes on, and the backroom takes one pad per cycle. Each of the two pads should be filled with notes addressed to one external contact, such as a mother, spouse, or powerful relative. The note cycle duration will vary depending on staffing and the speed of committee debate. On average, it will take 30 minutes to process one pad and collect the second. Crisis updates will take place interspersed with committee, likely coinciding with the note-collections.
Topic: Catalonian Independence Referendum, 2017
Independence for Catalunya is here! Or is it? Catalonia is fresh off an independence referendum where 92% of the Catalan population has voted in favor of independence. Though Spain is not looking to lose such a precious piece of its nation. Catalonia has long been vying for independence and has had greater success in recent years after failed independence movements in Basque country. With new leadership and momentum will Catalonia rise to the world’s stage. Independence parties play a crucial role in the world of Spanish politics. Catalonian pro-independents are needed by major parties to form a national government. Catalan support is important for the growth of Spain. Then begs the case with new leadership and momentum will Catalonia rise to the world’s stage, or will Catalonia instead lead Spain within the world of its domestic politics?
The Dais
Sonia Chornodolsky - Chair
Sonia Chornodolsky is a freshman at Boston University, originally from Richmond, Virginia. She is pursuing a dual major in International Relations and History, with a concentration on Regional Politics and Cultural Anthropology in the European region. She is also completing a minor in Spanish, which aligns well with the Catalonian committee topic.
This marks Sonia's seventh year participating in Model United Nations, reflecting her long-standing commitment to the activity. During high school, she served as the Director of Specialized Agencies and the Secretary-General of her school's conference.
At BU, Sonia is currently involved in the International Relations Review, the Journal of History, and the Women in Law group. As a pre-law student, she plans to attend law school to specialize in international law.
Outside of her academics and extracurriculars, Sonia is a certified Pilates instructor and an avid boxer. She also enjoys exploring the beautiful city of Boston and trying new restaurants. She encourages delegates to contact her with any questions prior to the conference.
Contact: soniacho@bu.edu
Carla Martell - Vice Chair
Bio Coming Soon!
Pere Cabus - Crisis Director
Pere Cabús (he/him) is a junior at Boston University, double majoring in Neuroscience and Philosophy. He is actively involved in research at the Boston University Medical School's Department of Biochemistry, with a recent project focusing on developing a compound to inhibit methamphetamine addiction.
This committee holds special significance for Pere as he is originally from Catalonia and witnessed the events of the independence movement firsthand. He was present on the day of the election and saw the police charge citizens and seize ballot boxes. Consequently, he expects a respectful committee that recognizes the deep, centuries-old political struggle involved.
Pere has extensive Model UN experience, having served as the Secretary General of Mercersburg Academy's MUN team, leading them to Best Delegation Awards at both CMUNCE and NAIMUN. He views success as intrinsically linked to enjoyment and thorough preparation on both sides of the debate.
Pere encourages delegates to approach the conference with the spirit of former FC Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola's motto: "Go out there and have fun." He is grateful to see the events affecting his country addressed and encourages delegates to contact him with any questions.
Contact: cabusp@bu.edu
Ria Shah - Assistant Crisis Director
Ria Shah (she/her) is a current junior at Boston University studying Human Physiology. She plans to attend BU's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine (CAMED) upon graduation, highlighting her focus on the medical field.
She is actively involved in biochemistry and cell biology research on the medical campus and volunteers at Tufts Medical Center. Additionally, she helps run BU Campus Closet, a sustainability club on campus.
As someone who grew up living in five or more countries, Ria is deeply passionate about international diplomacy, despite having more limited experience in Model UN. She is excited to see delegates tackle complex global issues with creativity and cooperation.
Ria hopes delegates walk away with not only a deeper understanding of the Catalan independence movement but also stronger skills in critical thinking, negotiation, and diplomacy that they can utilize in the future. She encourages delegates to reach out with any questions.
Contact: riashahh@bu.edu