REEXAMINING
GLOBAL NORMS & VALUES
SOCIAL, HUMANITARIAN, AND CULTURAL COMMITTEE
The Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM) is the United Nations’ third committee, offering delegates a platform to engage with the normative foundations of the international system. As a General Assembly committee, SOCHUM centers debate on principles, accountability, and the role of states in shaping global standards that influence behavior far beyond the conference room. It is a forum where diplomacy is driven not by power alone, but by legitimacy, persuasion, and moral authority.
At HarvardMUN Canada 2026, SOCHUM provides delegates with the opportunity to explore how international norms are constructed, contested, and applied in practice. Rather than prioritizing strategic rivalry, SOCHUM emphasizes academic rigor, coalition-building, and the careful navigation of competing values. Delegates must consider how international commitments translate into real-world obligations, particularly when political interests conflict with humanitarian expectations.
This committee challenges delegates to think critically about the limits of international action and the responsibilities that accompany influence. Via structured debate, SOCHUM encourages delegates to refine their advocacy and is ideal for delegates interested in the ideas and evolution of norms.
TOPIC A: Child Labour in the Cocoa Industry in the Ivory Coast
TOPIC B: Reforming Global Refugee Resettlement and Integration Systems
COMMITTEE DAIS
Director
Becca Faber
My name is Becca Faber and I am a current sophomore in Quincy House studying Government and Japanese. I started participating in Model UN last year and have absolutely loved my time competing on the college circuit. I have also directed committees at HMUN and HNMUN in Boston and am excited to direct for HMUN Canada this year. Aside from Model UN, I enjoy sewing and thrifting (as a combo) and also love to hike in my hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. So excited for HMUN Canada this year!
SENIOR AD
TBA
JUNIOR AD
TBD