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Table of Content

Welcome letter: 3
Council Introduction 4
Topic: How ethical are body modification and cosmetic surgery? Should they be regulated by the
governments? 5
Topic Introduction: 6
Background Information: 7
Topic Urgency: 8
Scope of the debate: 9
Questions A Resolution Must Answer: (QARMA’s) 12
Topic : Should suicide, euthanasia and means to do so be legalized ? 13
Topic Introduction 14
Background Information 15
Scope of debate 16
Questions A Resolution Must Answer (QARMAs) 18
How to write a Position Paper 19
Bibliography 20
Welcome letter:

Respected delegates of the world’s nations,


The World Health Organization aims to promote and work towards good health and
wellbeing for which is required collective effort, empathy, and solidarity. The WHO MUN
conference provides a unique platform for aspiring leaders and advocates in the field of
public health to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange ideas, and propose innovative
solutions to prevalent issues.
This prestigious event aims to tackle critical global health challenges and work towards
creating a healthier and more equitable world.
Over the course of this conference, you will have the opportunity to simulate the work of the
World Health Assembly, by not only focussing on the physical health issues but also the
mental well-being of individuals which if neglected will have a severe impact on the society.
Through diplomacy, negotiation, and consensus-building, you will strive to develop
comprehensive and effective resolutions that reflect the values and priorities of the WHO.
These sessions will provide valuable insights, broaden your perspective, and equip you with
the knowledge and tools necessary to address the complex challenges facing our world today.
We hope that the WHO MUN conference will inspire you to become passionate advocates for
global health and motivate you to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and
communities worldwide.
On behalf of the Secretariat, it is of utmost honour for me to welcome you to the World
Health Organization Model United Nations.
Sincerely,
Vandita Rangarajan
Head chair of World Health Organization, DPSMUN 2023
Council Introduction
Ladies and gentlemen, Distinguished delegates and honourable chair,It is with great pleasure
and a profound sense of responsibility that I stand before you today as we gather for the
Model United Nations (MUN) conference representing the World Health Organization
(WHO). On behalf of the esteemed council members and myself, I extend a warm welcome
to each and every one of you. 1 The idea of a world health organisation was brought about
diplomats when they met to form the United Nations in 1945,

The World Health Organization operates under the principle that health is a fundamental
human right. Our mandate is to promote and protect the health of all individuals, irrespective
of their socioeconomic status, geographical location, or any other factor that may limit access
to healthcare services.Throughout the course of this conference, we will deliberate upon
critical issues that affect the health and well-being of people worldwide. We will tackle
challenges such as healthcare access and affordability, communicable and
non-communicable diseases, pandemic preparedness, mental health, and much more. It is our
duty to engage in constructive debates, develop comprehensive strategies, and foster
international cooperation to address these issues effectively.

I urge each delegate to approach these discussions with an open mind, empathy, and a deep
understanding of the diverse perspectives that we represent. In this council, we have the
unique opportunity to bridge differences, find common ground, and collectively work
towards sustainable solutions that leave no one behind.

Let us remember that the decisions we make here have the potential to impact the lives of
millions, to alleviate suffering, and to create lasting change. It is our responsibility to uphold
the principles of diplomacy, collaboration, and respect as we work towards our common goal
of a healthier world.

I am confident that each and every one of you will bring your expertise, passion, and
dedication to the table. Let us strive for excellence, embracing the spirit of cooperation and
mutual understanding that defines the United Nations. Together, we can shape a brighter
future for global health. I wish you all fruitful deliberations, meaningful exchanges, and a
successful conference. Let us make the World Health Organization proud.

Thank you,

Balaji Anbazhahan - Deputy Chair of World Health Organization, DPSMUN 2023

1 World Health Organization. [Online]


Available at: https://www.who.int/about/history.
[Accessed 5th june 2023].
Topic: How ethical are body modification and cosmetic surgery? Should they be
regulated by the governments? [Discussion of possible methods of control, specific to
cosmetic surgery in South Korea and limb lengthening surgery in India]

Key definitions and terms:


Key terms Meanings
Body positivity Body positivity means accepting and
celebrating all body types, promoting
self-love, and challenging societal beauty
standards.
Body dysmorphic disorder Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a
mental health condition characterized by
excessive preoccupation and distress related
to perceived flaws in one's appearance.
Beauty standards Beauty standard refers to the culturally
defined ideal of physical attractiveness that
is often promoted and upheld in society.
Topic Introduction:
Cosmetic procedures are performed to reshape structures of the body and to alter a person’s
appearance. Like any form of surgery, cosmetic procedures need a medical practitioner
trained in the procedure, including appropriate recovery time, healing, and proper care. Risks
include problems related to anaesthesia and surgery, excessive bleeding, infection, scarring
and failure to heal. 2
The most done cosmetic surgeries are:
1. Nose reshaping
2. Liposuction
3. Eyelid surgery
4. Face lift 3
In recent decades, we have seen an increase in the number of adolescents undergoing
cosmetic procedures. Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) show
that a total of 230,000 cosmetic procedures were carried out on patients younger than 18
years of age in 2011 – a startling jump from the 14,000 cosmetic procedures carried out on
adolescent patients in 1996. 4
Cosmetic surgery offers individuals the opportunity to enhance their physical appearance and
achieve their desired aesthetic goals. With the help of technological advancements, the
influence of Hollywood, and the quest for personal transformation, cosmetic procedures have
become increasingly accessible and sought-after. However, it is important for individuals
considering cosmetic surgery to approach the process with careful consideration.
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, it is essential for individuals to have a thorough
understanding of the potential risks, limitations, and realistic expectations. Consulting with
qualified plastic surgeons, conducting comprehensive research, and engaging in open
discussions about goals and desired outcomes are crucial steps in the decision-making
process. Patients should also consider the financial implications, recovery period, and the
need for ongoing maintenance or follow-up procedures. 5

2 Better Health. [Online]


Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/cosmetic-surgery
[Accessed 5th June 2023].

3 Hopkins Medicine. [Online]


Available at:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/cosmetic-plastic-surgery-overview#:~:tex
t=The%20top%20cosmetic%20surgeries%20are,%2C%20tummy%20tuck%2C%20and%20facelift.
[Accessed 5th June 2023].

4 National Library of Medicine. [Online]


Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4294091/
[Accessed 5th June 2023].

5 Forbes-Cosmetic Surgery. [Online]


Available at:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshwilson/2023/01/18/cosmetic-surgery-is-on-the-rise-with-technology-and-holly
wood-is-at-the-centre-of-it/?sh=2470142e1d91
[Accessed 5th june 2023].
Background Information:
Current Situation:
Cosmetic surgeries are on the rise due to the following reasons:
1. Advancements in Technology: Advancements in technology have made cosmetic
procedures more accessible, efficient, and less invasive. Techniques such as laser
treatments, non-surgical procedures, and minimally invasive surgeries have gained
popularity due to their reduced downtime and favourable outcomes.
2. Influence of social media and celebrity Culture: The influence of social media and
celebrity culture has played a significant role in the rise of cosmetic surgery.
Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok showcase idealized beauty standards,
leading individuals to seek procedures to achieve similar looks.
3. Increasing Acceptance and Reduced Stigma: There has been a shift in societal
attitudes towards cosmetic surgery. It is becoming more widely accepted, with
reduced stigma attached to undergoing procedures to enhance one's appearance. This
change in perception has contributed to the growing acceptance and openness towards
cosmetic surgery.
4. Desire for Self-Improvement and Confidence Boost: The pursuit of self-improvement
and a desire for increased confidence are significant factors driving the rise in
cosmetic surgery. People view cosmetic procedures as a way to enhance their physical
appearance, boost self-esteem, and feel more confident in various aspects of life.
5. Cultural and Global Influences: Cultural factors and global trends also play a role in
the rise of cosmetic surgery. Different cultures may have specific beauty ideals or
preferences that influence the demand for certain procedures. Moreover, the
globalization of beauty standards and the ease of travel have made it possible for
individuals to seek cosmetic procedures in different countries. 6

6 Forbes-Cosmetic Rise. [Online]


Available at:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/joshwilson/2023/01/18/cosmetic-surgery-is-on-the-rise-with-technology-and-holly
wood-is-at-the-centre-of-it/?sh=2470142e1d91
[Accessed 6th June 2023].
Topic Urgency:
The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is a personal one, influenced by individual desires,
self-perception, and cultural factors. For some individuals, cosmetic surgeries can provide a
boost in self-confidence and improve their quality of life.
However, concerns may arise when cosmetic surgeries are pursued excessively or for
inappropriate reasons. Some individuals may develop body dysmorphia or an obsession with
achieving an idealized appearance, which can lead to a pattern of seeking multiple surgeries
without achieving satisfaction. In such cases, it is important for healthcare professionals to
assess the mental and emotional well-being of patients.
The urgency for governments to regulate cosmetic surgeries can be attributed to several
reasons:
1. Patient Safety: The primary concern driving the urgency for government regulation is
ensuring the safety of patients undergoing cosmetic surgeries. Cosmetic procedures
carry inherent risks, and government regulation aims to establish standards and
guidelines to minimize these risks.
2. Risks of Unqualified Practitioners: There is a growing concern regarding the
proliferation of unqualified or inadequately trained individuals performing cosmetic
surgeries. Government regulation is necessary to prevent unqualified practitioners
from offering cosmetic procedures and to ensure that only licensed and trained
professionals perform these surgeries.
3. Ethical Concerns: Cosmetic surgery raises ethical concerns related to patient
autonomy, informed consent, and the promotion of realistic expectations. Government
regulation can address these concerns by enforcing guidelines that promote proper
informed consent procedures, clear communication about potential risks and benefits,
and guidelines for responsible advertising and marketing practices. Regulating the
ethical aspects of cosmetic surgery helps protect patients' rights and prevents
unethical practices.
4. Consumer Protection: Government regulation plays a crucial role in protecting
consumers who are seeking cosmetic surgery. Regulations can ensure transparency in
pricing, prevent misleading advertising or false claims, and provide avenues for
patients to address complaints or seek recourse in case of malpractice. By regulating
the industry, governments can protect consumers from fraudulent practices and ensure
they have access to accurate information and quality care.
5. Standardization of Practices: Regulation helps establish standards of care within the
cosmetic surgery field. By setting guidelines for patient evaluation, surgical
techniques, post-operative care, and follow-up, governments can ensure consistency
and quality across different practitioners and clinics. Standardization helps improve
patient outcomes, minimize complications, and increase overall confidence in the
field of cosmetic surgery. 7

7 National Library of Medicine - Cosmetic Surgery. [Online]


Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1123202/
[Accessed 6th june 2023].
Scope of the debate:
1) Increased cosmetic surgeries done in South Korea:
South Korean society places a significant emphasis on physical appearance, and there is a
cultural belief that improving one's appearance through cosmetic procedures can lead to
increased opportunities and success in personal and professional life. 8

Cosmetic surgery in South Korea has experienced a significant rise in demand, even amidst
the COVID-19 pandemic. South Korea has long been known as a global hub for cosmetic
procedures, with a culture that emphasizes beauty standards and the pursuit of physical
perfection. The article highlights that the pandemic has not deterred individuals from seeking
cosmetic surgeries, as people are spending more time at home, working remotely, and
wearing masks, which provides an opportunity for discreet recovery. Additionally, the South
Korean government's effective management of the pandemic has contributed to a sense of
safety and confidence in undergoing cosmetic procedures. The article also mentions that
South Korea has a well-developed infrastructure for cosmetic surgery, including a high
concentration of skilled surgeons and advanced technologies. However, it is important to note
that the rise in cosmetic surgeries also raises concerns about the pressure to conform to
societal beauty standards, the potential for unrealistic expectations, and the ethical
considerations surrounding cosmetic procedures. 9
A staggering one in five South Korean women has had cosmetic work done, compared to
about one in 20 American women, according to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic
Surgeons. 10

8 Cosmetic Surgery in SKorea. [Online]


Available at:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmetic_surgery_in_South_Korea#:~:text=Nearly%2025%25%20of%20women
%20aged,surgery%20capital%20of%20the%20world%22.
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

9 Health and Lifestyle. [Online]


Available at:
https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/cosmetic-surgeries-rise-in-south-korea-during-pandemic/5724258.html
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

10 ABCNews-South Korea. [Online]


Available at:
https://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/south-koreas-growing-obsession-cosmetic-surgery/story?id=24123409
[Accessed 6th June 2023].
Major issues with respect to Cosmetic surgery in South Korea:
1. Unlicensed Practitioners: The presence of unlicensed practitioners, known as "ghost
doctors," is a major concern in South Korea. These individuals lack proper
qualifications and operate outside of the regulated healthcare system.
2. Patient Safety Risks: Procedures performed by ghost doctors pose significant risks to
patient safety. Lack of proper training and oversight can lead to complications,
infections, and disfigurement, putting patients' lives at risk.
3. Targeting Vulnerable Individuals: Ghost doctors often target vulnerable individuals,
including those who seek cheaper alternatives or face barriers to accessing licensed
clinics. This includes people who are financially disadvantaged or feel marginalized
within the healthcare system.
4. Regulatory Challenges: Regulating underground practitioners is challenging due to
their secretive operations and ability to change locations or identities. The authorities
face difficulties in identifying and prosecuting these illegal practitioners.
5. Government Crackdown: The South Korean government has been taking steps to
combat the issue of ghost doctors. They are increasing penalties for unlicensed
practitioners and working on improving regulations and oversight to ensure patient
safety.
6. Consumer Awareness and Protection: The article emphasizes the importance of
consumer awareness and protection. Individuals are encouraged to verify the
credentials of surgeons, seek treatment in licensed clinics, and report any suspicious
or illegal practices to protect themselves and others. 11

11 CNN world. [Online]


Available at:
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/04/10/asia/south-korea-ghost-doctors-plastic-surgery-intl-hnk-dst/index.html
[Accessed 6th June 2023].
2) Limb lengthening surgery in India:
Limb lengthening is a surgical treatment that can reduce or correct limb-length discrepancies.
The treatment increases the length of a bone in a patient’s arm or leg while also stretching the
surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments. 12
The limb lengthening industry in India operates in an unregulated manner, leading to
concerns about patient safety and ethical practices. There are no standardized guidelines or
oversight mechanisms in place. The industry often targets individuals, particularly men, who
are insecure about their height and seek limb lengthening as a way to gain confidence and
improve their social and professional prospects. This vulnerability can be exploited by
unethical practitioners. Some clinics offer experimental procedures, such as limb lengthening
through the use of external fixators or implants. The long-term consequences and potential
risks of these procedures are not fully understood or studied.
The high costs associated with limb lengthening procedures, making them accessible only to
a privileged few. This creates a disparity and inequality in access to such treatments.
Patients mostly do not receive sufficient information about the risks and potential
complications associated with limb lengthening procedures. Informed consent is essential to
ensure patients are aware of the potential risks and make well-informed decisions.
Limb lengthening surgeries can have a significant psychological and emotional impact on
patients. The article discusses cases where individuals faced psychological distress,
post-surgery complications, and dissatisfaction with the results. 13

12, n.d. Guradian Post. [Online]


Available at:
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/may/09/i-have-to-be-taller-the-unregulated-world-of-indias-limb-leng
thening-industry
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

13, n.d. LimbLenghteningSurgery. [Online]


Available at:
https://www.childrenshospital.org/treatments/limb-lengthening-surgery#:~:text=Limb%20lengthening%20is%2
0a%20surgical,muscles%2C%20tendons%2C%20and%20ligaments.
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

Questions A Resolution Must Answer: (QARMA’s)

1. What are the main reasons why cosmetic surgery, which is aimed to boost an
individual’s self-confidence, has turned to be a serious issue in society?
2. With differentiated views on government interference, how can governments regulate
these cosmetic surgeries but at the same time safeguard the rights of the individual?
3. What measures can the government take to educate the people on body positivity
which would be helpful in minimizing the number of cosmetic surgeries?
4. Majority of the world population is unaware about the severity of the impact of
cosmetic surgeries. What steps can be taken by the government to educate the people
on the same?
5. Often cosmetic surgeries are done without consulting a general practitioner. However,
it is necessary to consult a practitioner. How can that be ensured?
6. What are the steps that can be taken by governments to educate the people on how
they must respond to “beauty standards”; whose definition keeps changing in our
changing world.
Should suicide, euthanasia and means to do so be legalized ?
Key Definitions

Terms Definitions

Suicide Suicide refers to the act of intentionally


taking one's own life. It involves an
individual deliberately causing their death
due to various factors such as emotional
distress, mental health issues, a sense of
hopelessness, or a perceived inability to
cope with challenging circumstances.
Suicide is a complex and multifaceted
phenomenon influenced by numerous
factors, including social, psychological,
cultural, and environmental aspects. It is
considered a tragic and serious public health
concern, and efforts are made worldwide to
prevent suicide and provide support to
individuals struggling with suicidal
thoughts.

Euthanasia Euthanasia, also known as mercy killing or


assisted suicide, refers to the act of
intentionally causing the death of a person
who is suffering from a terminal illness or
unbearable pain. It is typically carried out
with the individual's explicit consent and
with the aim of relieving their suffering

Legalised Legalised refers to the act of making


something lawful or permissible according
to the laws and regulations of a particular
jurisdiction. When a specific action,
behaviour, or practice is legalised, it means
that it is no longer considered illegal or
prohibited by the legal system.
Topic Introduction

The topics of suicide, euthanasia, and the means to carry out these actions are highly
controversial and evoke deep moral, ethical, and legal debates. While suicide is universally
regarded as a tragic outcome, discussions around euthanasia and assisted suicide have
become increasingly prevalent in recent years. This introduction will explore the arguments
surrounding the legalisation of these actions, highlighting both the proponents' and
opponents' perspectives.

On one hand, proponents argue that individuals should have the autonomy to make decisions
about their own lives, particularly when faced with severe physical pain, incurable illnesses,
or a loss of quality of life. They contend that legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide would
provide a compassionate option for terminally ill patients, allowing them to end their
suffering on their own terms. 14 Although some people might decide that the suffering and
indignity that characterise their lives are not sufficiently bad to make life not worth
continuing, other people in the same situation will deem their condition unbearable.

On the other hand, opponents raise concerns about the ethical implications of legalising these
actions. 15 Just as it would be wrong to force people to die, so is it wrong to force people to
endure conditions that they find to be unbearable. They fear that legalizing euthanasia and
assisted suicide could have unintended consequences, such as the potential for abuse,
coercion, and the devaluation of vulnerable individuals.

In exploring this topic, it is crucial to consider various legal, ethical, religious, and cultural
perspectives. The laws and regulations pertaining to suicide, euthanasia, and assisted suicide
vary widely across different countries and jurisdictions, reflecting the complex and sensitive
nature of these issues. By examining the arguments and counterarguments, we can gain a
deeper understanding of the implications and potential consequences of legalising these
actions.

Ultimately, the question of whether suicide, euthanasia, and the means to do so should be
legalized is a deeply personal and philosophical one. It requires a careful consideration of
individual rights, societal values, and the fundamental principles that underpin our
understanding of life, autonomy, and compassion.

14, n.d. Should there be a leagal right to die. [Online]


Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2949364/. Accessed 5 June 2023.
[Accessed 6th june 2023].

15, n.d. Legal Right?. [Online]


Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2949364/
[Accessed 6th June 2023].
Background Information
Suicide and euthanasia is different in many ways 18. Suicide is death caused by injuring
oneself with the intent to die. A suicide attempt is when someone harms themselves with any
intent to end their life. 16 Many factors can increase the risk for suicide or protect against it.
Suicide is connected to other forms of injury and violence. For example, people who have
experienced violence, including child abuse, bullying, or sexual violence have a higher
suicide risk. 17 Suicide rates increased approximately 36% between 2000–2021. Suicide was
responsible for 48,183 deaths in 2021, which is about one death every 11 minutes. More than
700 000 people die by suicide every year. Furthermore, for each suicide, there are more than
20 suicide attempts. Suicides and suicide attempts have a ripple effect that impacts on
families, friends, colleagues, communities and societies.17 Suicides are preventable. Much
can be done to prevent suicide at individual, community and national levels. On the other
hand euthanasia also called mercy killing, the act or practice of painlessly putting to death
persons suffering from painful and incurable disease or incapacitating physical disorder or
allowing them to die by withholding treatment or withdrawing artificial life-support
measures. 18

Physicians could lawfully decide not to prolong life in cases of extreme suffering, and they
may administer drugs to relieve pain even if this shortens the patient’s life. There are different
types of euthanasia16. Active euthanasia: killing a patient by active means, for example,
injecting a patient with a lethal dose of a drug. Sometimes called “aggressive” euthanasia.
Passive euthanasia: intentionally letting a patient die by withholding artificial life support
such as a ventilator or feeding tube. Some ethicists distinguish between withholding life
support and withdrawing life support (the patient is on life support but then removed from it).
Voluntary euthanasia: with the consent of the patient. Involuntary euthanasia: without the
consent of the patient, for example, if the patient is unconscious and his or her wishes are
unknown.. Some ethicists distinguish between “involuntary” (against the patient’s wishes)
and “nonvoluntary” (without the patient’s consent but wishes are unknown) forms. Laws
regarding euthanasia and assisted suicide vary significantly across countries and jurisdictions.
Some countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Colombia, and Canada, have legalized
certain forms of euthanasia or assisted suicide under specific conditions and with stringent
regulations. Other countries, such as the United States, have varying laws at the state level,
with some allowing or decriminalizing assisted suicide while others prohibit it outright. The
debate on legalisation revolves around conflicting ethical principles. 19

16, n.d. Britannica, Encyclopedia. [Online]


Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/euthanasia
[Accessed 5th June 2023].

17, n.d. Facts About Suicide. [Online]


Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
[Accessed 5th June 2023].

18, n.d. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. [Online]


Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
[Accessed 5th June 2023].
19, n.d. University of Missouri School of Medicine,. [Online]
Available at: https://medicine.missouri.edu/centers-institutes-labs/health-ethics/faq/euthanasia
[Accessed 5th June 2023].

Scope of debate
Ethical Considerations: The discussion involves exploring the ethical implications of
intentionally causing death and the ethical principles that underpin arguments both for and
against legalisation. This includes examining concepts such as autonomy, dignity, sanctity of
life, compassion, and the potential impact on vulnerable populations. 19

Individual Autonomy: Advocates for legalisation argue that individuals have the right to
make decisions about their own lives, including the option to end their life if facing
unbearable suffering or terminal illness. They emphasise the importance of respecting
personal autonomy and self-determination in matters of life and death.

Quality of Life and Suffering: Central to the debate is the concept of quality of life and the
extent to which individuals should have control over the level of suffering they experience.
Proponents of legalization argue that euthanasia or assisted suicide can provide relief from
unbearable physical or psychological pain and preserve dignity in end-of-life situations.

Safeguards and Regulations: The debate includes discussions about the necessary safeguards
and regulations that would be required if euthanasia or assisted suicide were to be legalized.
This includes considerations such as eligibility criteria, informed consent, the role of medical
professionals, and ensuring protection against abuse or coercion.

19, n.d. University of Missouri School of Medicine,. [Online]


Available at: https://medicine.missouri.edu/centers-institutes-labs/health-ethics/faq/euthanasia
[Accessed 5th June 2023].
Medical Profession and Responsibility: The role of healthcare professionals in end-of-life
decisions is a significant aspect of the debate. It raises questions about the responsibilities,
moral obligations, and potential conflicts faced by doctors and other healthcare providers
when it comes to participating in assisted suicide or euthanasia. 20

Alternatives and Palliative Care: Another aspect of the debate involves exploring alternatives
to legalisation, such as improving access to comprehensive palliative care. Supporters argue
that by enhancing palliative care services, individuals can receive adequate pain management,
psychological support, and compassionate end-of-life care, reducing the perceived need for
euthanasia or assisted suicide.

Societal Impact: Legalizing euthanasia, assisted suicide, or the means to carry out these
actions can have broader societal implications. The debate encompasses discussions on the
potential effects on trust in the medical profession, societal attitudes towards life and death,
and the potential impact on vulnerable populations, including those with disabilities or mental
health conditions. 21

20, n.d. NCBI. [Online]


Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6913808/
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

21, n.d. PubMed. [Online]


Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30742451/
[Accessed 6th June 2023].
Questions A Resolution Must Answer (QARMAs)

1: What are the ethical considerations surrounding the legalization of suicide, euthanasia, and
assisted suicide? How do these considerations align with principles such as autonomy,
dignity, and the sanctity of life?

2: What criteria should be established to determine eligibility for euthanasia or assisted


suicide? How can the potential risks of abuse, coercion, and the devaluation of vulnerable
populations be addressed?

3: What impact might the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide have on the
doctor-patient relationship, medical ethics, and the role of healthcare professionals? How can
conflicts between personal beliefs and professional obligations be managed?

4: What alternatives exist to legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide? How can access to
comprehensive palliative care and pain management be improved to address end-of-life
suffering and maintain dignity?

5: How would legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide affect societal attitudes towards life,
death, and the value placed on human life? What potential risks and benefits might arise in
terms of the broader social and cultural implications?

6: What legal frameworks and regulations would be necessary to ensure the safe and
responsible practice of euthanasia and assisted suicide, including safeguards against abuse,
thorough informed consent, and oversight mechanisms?

7: How might legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide impact mental health services,
suicide prevention efforts, and the support provided to individuals experiencing suicidal
ideation? Are there potential unintended consequences to consider?

8: How do religious and cultural beliefs and values influence the debate on the legalization of
euthanasia and assisted suicide? How can a balance be struck between individual rights and
the collective moral fabric of society?
How to write a Position Paper
Many Model UN conferences require delegates to submit "Position Papers" on their topics
before a conference starts to demonstrate their research and knowledge. Position Papers are
normally 1-2 pages per topic, and should have 3-4 paragraphsThey should be written from
the perspective of the government of your country, include a header, and answer the
following questions. Your final Position Paper should look similar to the sample on the next
page.

Heading

Committee:WHO
Topic:[Your Topic]
Country: [Your Assigned Country]
School : DPS International School

Topic Background

What is the definition of the topic? Where does the topic take place? Who is
involved?
How many people does it affect? Where, and in what ways? Why is this topic
important?

Past International Action

Have there been any interesting statements by UN officials on this topic? Try to
find a quote.
What are the most important UN resolutions and treaties on this topic?
Do any major Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) work on this topic?

Country Policy

How has this topic impacted your country? What has your country tried to do
about this topic?
What types of policies would your country want the UN to adopt (or not adopt)
on this topic?

Possible Solutions

What specific plans would your country like the UN to undertake to


address this issue?
What specific plans would your country like Member States to undertake in their
own countries?
Why would your ideas work? Give specific plans.
Bibliography
10, n.d. ABCNews-South Korea. [Online]
Available at:
https://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/south-koreas-growing-obsession-cosmetic-surgery/story?id=24123
409
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

11, n.d. CNN world. [Online]


Available at:
https://edition.cnn.com/2021/04/10/asia/south-korea-ghost-doctors-plastic-surgery-intl-hnk-dst/ind
ex.html
[Accessed 6th June 2023].

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