SHIFTING SANDS

In today’s geopolitical climate, the theme “Shifting Sands” captures the fluid, unpredictable, and rapidly transforming nature of global affairs. The international system, once defined by relatively stable alliances and clear power structures, is now in a state of constant motion. Multipolarity is emerging as new powers assert themselves across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, challenging the dominance of traditional global actors. This redistribution of influence creates a world where cooperation and competition exist side by side, and where states must continually redefine their identities and strategic priorities.

Modern conflicts further reflect this instability. Warfare is no longer limited to conventional battlegrounds; instead, cyberattacks, misinformation campaigns, proxy wars, and the involvement of non-state actors make global security increasingly complex. As the definition of conflict evolves, so too does the understanding of sovereignty, defense, and accountability. Nations reposition themselves not out of preference but out of necessity, responding to economic pressures, security threats, and technological vulnerabilities that emerge faster than policies can adapt.

Economic structures are also undergoing profound change. Globalization, once seen as an inevitable and uniform force, is being reshaped by pandemics, sanctions, technological rivalry, and the reconfiguration of global supply chains. At the same time, the digital economy challenges traditional models of taxation, labor, and trade, leaving governments struggling to maintain stability while embracing innovation.

International institutions, many created in the aftermath of World War II, are now confronted with questions about their relevance and effectiveness.

Social and environmental pressures intensify these political transformations. Climate change redraws coastlines and displaces populations, demographic shifts reshape national priorities, and civic movements challenge long-standing political structures. These forces destabilize traditional assumptions while creating opportunities for new ideas, new leadership, and new forms of international engagement.

Ultimately, “Shifting Sands” calls upon the international community—and MUN delegates in particular—to navigate a world defined not by stability but by change. It invites participants to rethink established norms, design adaptable and future-ready solutions, and acknowledge the interconnectedness of global events. The theme is not simply about recognizing instability, but about understanding how to build a world order capable of enduring and evolving within it.