Overview
This is a double-delegate committee.
OPEC is a powerful intergovernmental organization composed of major oil-exporting nations, originally formed to coordinate petroleum policies and secure fair and stable oil prices. Over time, it has evolved into a key player in shaping global energy discussions and market strategies. With growing international emphasis on sustainability and decarbonization, OPEC now faces the complex challenge of reconciling fossil fuel interests with the accelerating global transition toward clean energy. The organization must balance market stability, geopolitical considerations, and environmental responsibility across a rapidly changing energy landscape.
Topic 1: Diversifying Economies for Oil-Dependent Nations
At this conference, the first topic will be Diversifying Economies for Oil-Dependent Nations. Many OPEC member states rely heavily on oil revenues to fund public services, infrastructure, and development, leaving them vulnerable to price volatility and shifts in global demand. With international pressure mounting to phase out fossil fuels, these nations must now urgently diversify their economies. Delegates must examine strategies such as investing in renewable energy, expanding education and vocational training, encouraging private-sector growth, and developing alternative sectors like tourism, agriculture, and digital technology. How can OPEC support its members through financial and technical assistance? What role can foreign investment and partnerships play in this transition? Delegates must consider how economic diversification can be both rapid and inclusive, avoiding new dependencies while fostering innovation and resilience.
Topic 2: Sustainable and Ethical Oil Rigging Practices
Additionally, the second topic will be Sustainable and Ethical Oil Rigging Practices. Oil extraction remains one of the world’s most environmentally damaging industries, often linked to pollution, hazardous labor, and community displacement. In response, OPEC must define a leadership role in promoting sustainable and ethical rigging practices that minimize environmental impact and protect human rights. Delegates should explore policy tools such as environmental certification programs, joint sustainability research, regional safety standards, and mechanisms to penalize unsafe or unethical practices. Can OPEC promote carbon capture technologies or mandate environmental impact reporting? How should it address environmental degradation in politically unstable areas? Crafting guidelines that improve transparency, protect local communities, and ensure safer labor conditions while maintaining economic output will be crucial to OPEC’s credibility and long-term viability.
The Dais
Nicholas DeMarco - Chair
Nicholas "Nick" DeMarco (he/him) is a senior at Boston University majoring in International Relations with a minor in Business Administration. Nick is thrilled and honored to serve as the Chair for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) committee at BosMUN XXV.
Originally from the Boston area, Nick is a past BosMUN delegate (2018 and 2019) who returned to the activity last year to chair a committee. Outside of his academic pursuits, he enjoys staying active (gym and sports), skiing, photography, and traveling. He currently works as a student marketer for Red Bull and considers himself a "cold-brew coffee connoisseur" who prefers it served straight up. A fun fact: he is a triplet, with two sisters.
Nick encourages critical thinking, creative collaboration, and engagement. He emphasizes that Model UN is about building vital skills in public speaking, negotiation, and diplomacy, and that the success of the conference lies in the collaboration, dialogue, and relationships built along the way.
Contact: nvdem@bu.edu
Marcos Godoy Castellano - Vice Chair
Marcos Godoy (he/him) is a third-year student pursuing a Dual Bachelor’s Degree in International Studies and Law with a minor in Political Science at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid. Originally from Cuenca, Spain, he is currently studying abroad at Boston College and is honored to serve as the Vice Chair for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) committee at BosMUN XXV.
Marcos's passion for international politics began young, driven by a dream to effect change, which led him to Model UN. He has served as both a delegate and chair in several conferences across Spain, noting that MUN taught him the true value of diplomacy and empathy.
Outside of MUN, Marcos enjoys reading, cooking (he is part of his university's Cooking Club), and spending time in nature. He is a coffee enthusiast and collects postcards from every place he travels.
He encourages delegates to view BosMUN as more than just resolutions and debate, emphasizing the importance of connecting with people from around the world and growing together as thinkers and leaders. He looks forward to an incredible experience of diplomacy and debate.
Contact: godoycas@bc.edu