ECOSOC
Topics
Topic 1
Question The question of reforming global economic governance to address inequality and support sustainable development in the Global South.
Description Examine structural reforms to global economic governance aimed at reducing inequality and empowering the Global South.
Topic 2
Question The question of coordinating international responses to future global health and economic crises through ECOSOC, in light of lessons learned from past failures.
Description Consider how ECOSOC can lead to better international responses to future health and economic crises based on lessons from past failures.
Countries
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China is a single-party state governed by the Communist Party of China (CPC), with President Xi Jinping consolidating significant power. The government maintains strict control over political expression, media, and civil society. China's foreign policy emphasizes sovereignty and non-interference, often clashing with Western nations on human rights issues.
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India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the government has faced criticism for policies perceived as discriminatory against minorities and for increased restrictions on press freedoms. Despite these concerns, India maintains a robust electoral democracy.
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An absolute monarchy under King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia is undergoing rapid economic and social reforms (Vision 2030) while maintaining strict political control. It’s a major player in OPEC and Middle Eastern politics, often criticized for human rights abuses.
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Germany is a federal parliamentary republic. In 2025, Friedrich Merz became Chancellor following the collapse of Olaf Scholz's coalition. Merz's administration emphasizes stricter migration policies and aims to reassert Germany's leadership role in Europe, facing challenges from rising far-right sentiments.
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A federal republic and global superpower, the U.S. plays a leading role in international diplomacy, defense (NATO), and economic institutions. Its politics are highly polarized domestically, but its foreign policy generally promotes liberal democratic values, human rights, and free trade.
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A constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, the UK is a permanent UNSC member and global diplomatic power. Post-Brexit, it seeks to redefine its international role, supporting NATO and Ukraine while navigating domestic political fragmentation.
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A one-party communist state, Vietnam blends market reforms with tight political control. It maintains an independent foreign policy, balancing relations between China and the U.S., and is increasingly important in regional trade and security dynamics in Southeast Asia.
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Argentina is a representative democracy with competitive elections and active civil society participation. However, it faces challenges like economic instability and corruption. In 2024, Argentina was invited to join the BRICS group, indicating its growing role in global affairs.
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Indonesia is a democratic republic with a history of political stability since the fall of authoritarian rule in 1998. While it has made democratic gains, challenges persist, including corruption, human rights issues, and separatist movements in regions like Papua.
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Egypt operates under a semi-presidential system. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, in power since 2013, has consolidated authority, with the government suppressing political dissent and restricting media freedoms. The political environment remains tightly controlled, with limited space for opposition.
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Brazil operates as a federal republic under a presidential system. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, re-elected in 2022, emphasizes social inclusion and environmental protection. Brazil maintains a non-aligned foreign policy, balancing relations with Western countries and emerging powers like China and Russia.
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Mexico is a federal republic with a history of single-party dominance transitioning to a multi-party system. The country faces significant challenges from drug cartels and corruption. Mexico maintains close economic ties with the United States and is an active member of international organizations.
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A democratic republic with a strong presidential system, South Korea is a major economic power and a key U.S. ally in East Asia. It maintains a tense relationship with North Korea and is active in regional diplomacy and global trade organizations.
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A constitutional democracy and a regional power in Africa, South Africa champions multilateralism and development cooperation. Domestically, it struggles with inequality and political corruption. It maintains a non-aligned foreign policy, often seeking a balance between the West and emerging powers.
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A presidential republic under Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey has increasingly centralized power and suppressed dissent. It plays a key regional role, balancing relations with NATO, Russia, and the Middle East, and often asserts an independent and sometimes controversial foreign policy.
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The Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. It is known for its progressive social policies and strong commitment to international law and human rights. The country is an active member of the EU and NATO.
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France is a semi-presidential republic with a history of political stability. However, the 2024 legislative elections resulted in a hung parliament, leading to governmental instability. President Emmanuel Macron's administration faces challenges in forming a stable government amid a fragmented political landscape.
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Japan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary government. It maintains a pacifist constitution but has been increasing its defense capabilities in response to regional threats. Japan is a key ally of Western countries in Asia and plays a significant role in global economic and technological sectors.
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Canada is a parliamentary democracy with a strong history of respecting political rights and civil liberties. In 2025, Mark Carney became Prime Minister, succeeding Justin Trudeau. The Liberal Party's re-election has sparked debates over policies related to immigration, economic management, and foreign relations.
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Italy is a parliamentary republic and a founding member of the EU. Its political scene is characterized by frequent government changes and coalition politics. Italy plays an active role in European affairs and international diplomacy.