Anna Maria Flausino
Co-Chair, WHO
Dear Delegates,
First off, I would like to welcome you to UPMUNC 58! My name is Anna Maria Flausino, and I will be one of your chairs, alongsideMichaell Merolla, for the World Health Organization Committee (WHO). Your chairs and staff are beyond excited about this conference and look forward to the robust discussions we will have on this committee.
The World Health Organization (WHO), founded in 1948, is the UN’s specialized agency for global health. Its mission is to ensure “the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health.” Over the decades, the WHO has led landmark efforts such as the eradication of smallpox, the promotion of primary health care through the Alma-Ata Declaration, and, more recently, global coordination on climate-related health risks and pandemic preparedness. As the leading international health body, the WHO remains committed to guiding member states in addressing today’s pressing and future health challenges.
The topics discussed in this committee are incredibly complex and will require a thorough analysis of the various layers these issues entail. I suggest delving into the root of the problem by making connections between past and possible solutions. How can this committee make a substantial difference?
Regarding the background information of your chair: I am a Philadelphia native and a sophomore in the College of Arts and Sciences studying International Relations with minors in European and Latin American studies, on a pre-law track. I am co-director of the Academic Affairs branch of the International Affairs Association (IAA), community outreach chair of the Pre-Law Fraternity, board member for the Civic Youth Action Project, and Co-President of the Collegiate Ethics Bowl Team at Penn. When I am not running around Penn, I attend events at the Philadelphia Latvian Society, explore local thrift stores, and enjoy coffee at various cafes.
Participating in UPMUNC 57 as co-Chairs with Michael was one of my favorite events at Penn last year. With that being said, I am so happy to be able to co-chair this committee this year once again. Let's make this committee count and have a conference to remember! Please feel free to reach out with any questions!
Anna Maria Flausino
flausino@sas.upenn.edu
Michael Merolla
Co-Chair, WHO
Dear Delegates,
I am excited to welcome you to the World Health Organization Committee (WHO) at UPMUNC 58! My name is Michael Merolla, and as one of the chairs, I look forward to facilitating and supporting engaging and productive discussions and debate on the fascinating world of global health policy.
The WHO is a United Nations agency that is geared towards delivering healthcare and medical relief around the world. Guided by science, the WHO seeks to help people of all nations live healthier lives. The agency relies on a unique blend of politicians, medical experts, and health care workers to solve crises. Operating under finite resources to solve endless emergencies, the WHO is governed by the World Health Assembly which makes crucial decisions with the power to save lives. I look forward to seeing your collaboration and hard work over the course of the conference.
A little bit about me:
I am from Long Island, New York and a sophomore in the College of Arts & Sciences. I am currently studying political science on a pre-law track. I had a great time staffing Penn's collegiate conference last year, and I am ecstatic to be a senior staffer for my first ILMUNC conference! Outside of the classroom, I write for the Penn Undergraduate Law Blog, mentor in West Philadelphia K-9 programs, and play on the rugby team. When I am back home, I spend most of my time playing with my puppy or rooting on my new sports teams.
Anna and I are looking forward to working with you in the WHO committee. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions regarding the committee.
Michael Merolla
mmerolla@sas.upenn.edu