Marian ElNaggar
Chair, CSTD
Dear Delegates,
Welcome to UPMUNC 58! My name is Mariam ElNaggar, and I’m thrilled to serve as one of your chairs for the United Nations Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD), a body within ECOSOC dedicated to addressing global challenges at the intersection of innovation, equity, and regulation.
This year, our committee will delve into two highly relevant and complex topics: (1) the international regulation of AI-generated content and political disinformation campaigns, and (2) the regulation of mineral extraction for sustainable technology development. Whether it’s the fast-evolving influence of artificial intelligence on electoral processes and truth, or the ethical and environmental implications of powering the green transition, these issues sit at the heart of current global debates. We challenge you to think critically about the power dynamics, development gaps, and geopolitical stakes that define both discussions.
As a delegate in CSTD, you’ll be tasked not only with navigating policy and precedent but with confronting the future. You’ll need to balance ambition with feasibility, urgency with responsibility, and innovation with inclusion. We hope you’ll bring creativity, empathy, and strategic insight into every session.
A bit about me, I’m currently a senior at Penn studying Environmental Studies and Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE). I serve as Vice President of the International Affairs Association and am a member of the Penn Model UN Team. Outside of MUN, I spend my time writing, cooking, and playing basketball. I’m incredibly excited to be co-chairing this committee with Milan, and I look forward to seeing the thoughtful, spirited debate you’ll bring to the table.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions leading up to the conference. We’re here to support you every step of the way. See you in the fall!
Warmly,
Mariam ElNaggar