2019 NJ High School MUN

Food insecurity, or being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food, is a major challenge for many across the globe. Poverty and poor harvesting practices, as well as food waste, have contributed to food insecurity. Wars and conflict have also had a negative impact on the availability of food and have led to the destruction of the environment, which is critical to growing food. Today, there are nearly 800 million people who suffer from hunger worldwide, the vast majority in developing countries.

The 2019 New Jersey High School Model United Nations program, in partnership with Camden County College, explored the topic of Ending Food Insecurity in the context of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDGs specifically call for ending hunger, achieving food security and improved nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture globally. This program was open to a select group of New Jersey High Schools.

Program goals for students included: (1) gaining a deeper understanding of world geography, history, and cultures; (2) exploring the mission, structure, and function of the United Nations; (3) applying research and critical thinking skills to specific global issues; (4) learning to write, debate, and amend resolutions; (5) understanding the role of diplomacy and deliberation in international affairs; and (6) developing skills in conflict resolution, problem solving, and cross-cultural communication.