General Assembly Fourth Committee

Global problems do not appear in isolation. They result from a series of interactions between factors such as political pressure, scientific advancement, and humanitarian responsibilities. It is at this point that the concept of convergence becomes crucial. Convergence is the point of intersection between viewpoints, obligations, and solutions. It is a point in time when all different ideas intersect each other, leading towards collective action.

It is with the utmost honor that my chair, Asser Amr, and I welcome you to The Fourth General Assembly at HIAMUN’27. Also known as SPECPOL, The Special Political and Decolonization Committee debates some of the most intricate issues, including  those related to peace, security, human rights, decolonization, and much more. This year, GA4 will serve as a forum where delegates are challenged to examine urgent global issues through both political and humanitarian perspectives.

Serving as the president of The Fourth General Assembly holds special significance for me, considering that I had the honor of being the first ever chair of GA4 at HIAMUN ’26. Coming back to this committee once again has further convinced me that it offers great value and importance as a council where diplomacy, collaboration, and discussion can thrive. Asser and I aim to build a committee where delegates feel welcomed, challenged, and encouraged to grow not only as delegates but as humans.

This year, delegates will discuss three relevant and challenging issues. The first topic, “Addressing the Use of Sanctions as a Tool of International Pressure and Their Impact on Civilian Populations”, involves the evaluation of how effective sanctions are in light of their humanitarian consequences on civilians. Our second topic, “Regulating Access to Genetic Engineering Technologies to Prevent Misuse by Non-State Actors”, will challenge delegates to balance between science, international security, and ethics. Our third topic, “Combating the Recruitment and Exploitation of Children by Non-State Armed Groups in Armed Conflict”, will address the dire need to safeguard children from exploitation.

Through these topics, GA4 will represent the true spirit of convergence, by which different perspectives, disciplines, and responsibilities converge in search for solutions that are both practical and humane. Asser and I are incredibly excited to witness your research, debate, negotiation, and growth throughout the conference. We warmly welcome you to the Fourth General Assembly and look forward to seeing the contributions you will bring to HIAMUN ’27.

Layla Diab, President of the Fourth General Assembly

Topics

1. Addressing the Use of Sanctions as a Tool of International Pressure and Their Impact on Civilian Populations

2. Regulating Access to Genetic Engineering Technologies to Prevent Misuse by Non-State Actors.

3. Combating the Recruitment and Exploitation of Children by Non-State Armed Groups in Armed Conflict.