Overview
This is an novice committee, it is recommended that delegates without experience compete in this committee.
The Committee on Migratory Species operates under the United Nations Environment Programme and coordinates international efforts to conserve migratory animals and their habitats. These species often cross national boundaries, making international cooperation essential to their protection. CMS works to develop policies and agreements that ensure safe migratory routes, reduce threats from human activity, and preserve the ecosystems on which these species depend.
Topic 1: Illegal Hunting and Poaching
At this conference, the first topic will be targeting Illegal Hunting and Poaching, an issue that has existed for a long time. Poaching is one of the most immediate and deadly threats to migratory species. From elephants and rhinos to marine turtles and birds, species are illegally hunted for commercial gain, cultural use, or survival. Delegates must address enforcement gaps, strengthen international wildlife trafficking laws, and promote local economic alternatives. Should penalties be standardized internationally? How can nations cooperate on cross-border enforcement? The committee must propose mechanisms that support conservation while also respecting the socio-economic realities of affected communities.
Topic 2: Effects of Climate Change on Migratory Species
Additionally, the second topic will be the Effects of Climate Change on Migratory Species. Changing climates are disrupting migratory routes, breeding patterns, and food availability for countless species. Rising sea levels, desertification, and extreme weather events make existing migratory paths more dangerous or entirely inaccessible. Delegates must discuss strategies for habitat restoration, cross-border environmental protection, and long-term adaptation plans. How can countries coordinate the protection of ecosystems that span multiple borders? What role do indigenous and local communities play in climate adaptation? The committee must act quickly to protect vulnerable species from disappearing altogether.
The Dais
Becca Friedman - Chair
Becca Friedman is a freshman at Boston University studying International Relations and Economics, originally from Westchester, New York. She is excited to serve as the Chair for the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) at BosMUN XXV.
This conference marks Becca's third year at BosMUN, having previously attended twice as a delegate. After junior staffing BarMUN XVIII, she is honored for CMS to be her first experience chairing a BosMUN committee.
Outside of MUN, Becca enjoys reading, creating new Spotify playlists, discovering study spots, attending concerts, and exploring the city of Boston. She values MUN for the opportunity it provides to practice public speaking, research, and quick thinking while meeting people from around the world.
As CMS is a novice committee, she hopes the conference will be a supportive learning experience focused on Illegal Hunting and Poaching and the Effects of Climate Change on Migratory Species. She encourages delegates to go beyond the background guide in their research and looks forward to seeing their creative solutions.
Contact: rebfri@bu.edu
Alexander Wadsworth - Vice Chair
Alexander Wadsworth is a sophomore at Boston University majoring in Physics and History, originally from Somerset Hills, New Jersey. He is excited to serve as the Vice Chair for the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) committee at BosMUN XXV.
This year marks Alexander's first involvement with BosMUN and his first time as senior staff, having previously participated in MUN as a high school delegate starting his sophomore year. He looks forward to meeting everyone from the dais.
Outside of academics and MUN, Alexander enjoys exploring Boston (giving a shoutout to Newbury Street), listening to music, and taking trips around New England through BU's outing club.
He acknowledges that for many, this will be their first MUN experience and emphasizes that the conference provides an amazing opportunity to build confidence and communication skills, and gain a global perspective. He stresses that working together will be key to tackling the committee's problems and eagerly anticipates the solutions the delegates will propose.
Contact: agw2006@bu.edu