• The question of addressing the rising frequency of coups and democratic backsliding

• The question of developing a continental strategy to reduce dependence on foreign peacekeeping forces 

• Preventing armed groups from exploiting Africa’s mineral resources

As the procedural Chair of the African Union Committee, I had the opportunity to interview Mr. Darren from UNIS Hanoi. His background is roughly 25 years in education, international teaching experiences, leadership running a food bank, and a long tenure in Seattle schools before moving to Hanoi, which allowed the conversation to provide practical and helpful feedback. It helped me gain a valuable perspective as I prepared for the conference and reflected on our theme: “Is our rules-based international system able to adapt to contemporary challenges to security and sovereignty?” 

Mr. Darren explained that he and his partner moved into international education seeking new experiences for their family, and that UNIS Hanoi’s challenging environment and strong community shaped his views on institutions and responsibility. When I asked about the African Union topics, rising coups and democratic backsliding, reducing dependence on foreign peacekeeping, and preventing armed groups from exploiting mineral resources, he emphasized that colonialism and imperialism left structural vulnerabilities and that corruption and strong financial incentives drive both resource exploitation and political instability. 

He noted that armed groups exploit mineral wealth because there is money to be gained and that responsible corporate behaviour, stronger governance, and anti-corruption efforts are essential to prevent these misuses. Not only this, throughout our conversation he offered practical advice for chairs, which I found applicable to guiding sensitive debates about sovereignty and security. His emphasis on long term community building and responsibility taught a lot which I wouldn't have known without his assistance. 

Overall, learning from Mr. Darren deepened my understanding of the AU issues and gave me amazing ideas for chairing the committee. I look forward to working with Mr. Darren in the future and appreciate the effort he put into this!

Thank you for your assistance and time Mr Darren!  

As the procedural chair of the African Union committee, I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Tebutt, who is in his second year at UNIS Hanoi. He enjoys working in Finance and operations while also aligning closely with the school values. Mr. Tebutt has had the opportunity to work in a range of backgrounds, transitioning from hotel hospitality in the UK to key educational roles in the University of Oxford, making him a reliable person to look up to. 

Mr. Tebutt appreciates UNIS Hanoi’s connection to the United Nations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He values the school's diversity and enjoys mentoring through the Model United Nations (MUN), describing it as an opportunity to work with students, which is typically unusual in his field. While talking about the AU, he focused on the topic of “addressing the rising frequency of coups and democratic backsliding,” viewing these issues as symptoms of deeper embedded challenges. 

He emphasized building trust and unity among individuals, suggesting early discussions to clearly succeed and create a supportive environment for delegates. His insights on communication highlighted the need for clear expectations and direct conversations to enhance understanding across cultural differences. 

My conversations with Mr. Tebutt provided valuable perspectives on addressing the challenges in the African Union committee. His emphasis on trust and effective communication will greatly inform my approach as we dive into these important issues. Thank you Mr Tebutt for your guidance and unwavering support! 

Honourable directors, distinguished delegates, esteemed guests,

My name is Tabashmi Bhattacharya, a sophomore at the American International School of Johannesburg and the Head Chair of this year’s UNISMUN African Union committee. Outside the world of diplomacy, you’ll most likely find me dancing, playing piano, or hunting down the best ice cream in Johannesburg, all essential skills for MUN season, of course.

This March marks my fifth MUN conference, second time as chair, and every year I’m reminded why I keep coming back to MUN: the fruitful debates, the drafting of resolutions, and the moments when delegates realise they’re capable of far more than they expected.

This year’s conference theme, “Is our rules-based international system able to adapt to contemporary challenges to security and sovereignty?” hits especially close to home for the AU. Living in Africa has taught me that stability and sovereignty profoundly shape daily life. The vision of the African Union is that of: “An integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.” The AU’s work proves that regional organisations must evolve faster than the crises they face. My call to action for you is simple: don’t debate as if the world is static. Debate as if your ideas could rewire the entire system.

The African Union, both in reality and in our committee, plays a critical role in promoting peace, strengthening governance, and protecting the continent’s collective future. From coordinating peacekeeping missions to mediating political transitions, the AU’s work is a masterclass in balancing unity with sovereignty, a challenge every delegate here will grapple with.

Our topics reflect that urgency of tackling the rise of coups and democratic backsliding, crafting a continental strategy to reduce dependence on foreign peacekeeping, and preventing armed groups from exploiting Africa’s mineral wealth. 

The first issue: “The question of addressing the rising frequency of coups and democratic backsliding.” Every time a government gets toppled, it weakens regional stability and scares off investment. If the AU doesn’t get ahead of this trend, it risks normalising military takeovers as a political shortcut. 

The second issue: “The question of developing a continental strategy to reduce dependence on foreign peacekeeping forces.” Relying on external actors for security leaves the continent vulnerable to shifting foreign agendas and slow response times. However, building autonomous, African-led peace operations reinforces sovereignty and gives the AU actual control over conflict resolution, rather than outsourcing its security to whoever has troops available. 

The third issue: “Preventing armed groups from exploiting Africa’s mineral resources.” When militias and extremist groups profit from resources, conflicts become self-funding and basically endless. Securing Africa’s minerals is crucial for the economic growth of course, but also protecting communities and ensuring that natural wealth strengthens states rather than bankrolling instability.

I’m genuinely excited to watch you dive into these issues. Here’s to sharp debates, thoughtful diplomacy, and amazing outfits (within dress code, obviously).

Welcome to the AU in UNISMUN M2026. Let’s make this unforgettable.

Tabashmi Bhattacharya

Greetings, honorable delegates, distinguished chair fellows, and esteemed guests. My name is Sein KIM, a sophomore at St. Paul American School Hanoi, and I am honored to serve as the deputy chair of the African Union. I have been in MUN for 2 years now, and this is my sixth MUN conference and first as a chair.

This year’s theme, “Is our rules-based international system able to adapt to contemporary challenges to security and sovereignty?” resonates deeply with the African Union. This union demonstrates both strengths and weaknesses of the current global framework, acting as a reminder that the international system must evolve to adapt to quick political and security changes. 

The African Union (AU) is essential for uniting 55 African nations to foster peace, security, democratic governance, and economic integration. It serves as the unified voice of African nations in global affairs. AU holds direct collaboration with the United Nations on peacekeeping missions. As the world keeps changing, the AU is a great demonstration of how a regional union can be a stronger representation of developing countries and sharing responsibility. 

First topic “The question of addressing the rising frequency of coups and democratic backsliding” highlights the continuing erosion of government happening in several African States. Repeated military takeovers and coups weaken public trust in leadership and often lead to human right violations and violent repressions. The African Union must reinforce its commitment to democratic governance. 

Second topic, “The question of developing a continental strategy to reduce dependence on foreign peacekeeping forces,” which emphasizes the importance of security solutions, questioning the balance between regional and global responsibility. Limited regional capacity has impacted Africa’s ability to independently manage peace on its own, reminding the need to enhance African-led peacekeeping frameworks further. 

The third topic, “Preventing armed groups from exploiting Africa’s mineral resources,” emphasizes how the exploitation of fuels can cause conflict, concerning humanitarian crises, and concerns over the ethical supply chains and international responsibility, urging African Union and international partners to strengthen regulatory frameworks. 

I’m thrilled to see you discuss these important issues, come up with adaptable solutions, and have juicy debates with fellow delegates! 

Warm Regards,

Sein KIM

Honorable chairs, distinguished delegates, fellow guests, and directors,

My name is Sarah Bagaria, and I am currently a sophomore at the United Nations International School of Hanoi. It is my honor to serve as the procedural chair for the African Union at the UNISMUN March 2026 conference. This conference will mark my 4th year participating in MUN, this being the second time I serve as chair. I am extremely excited to work with my fellow delegates and engage in proactive debates. 

The theme for this conference is “Is our rules-based international system able to adapt to contemporary challenges to security and sovereignty?” This theme is extremely important because it largely determines the future of global peace, economic prosperity, and the potential for a stable, cooperative world order. 

Chairing for the African Union will be an insightful and valuable lesson that I am eagerly anticipating. This committee discusses topics that not only address rapidly growing issues, but also are limited specifically to Africa. Through my hobby of reading, I have built a long-lasting and empathetic relationship with this beautiful country. This further motivates my reason to chair this committee and work with you to create feasible solutions.  

The 3 topics that we will discuss during this conference are “The question of addressing the rising frequency of coups and democratic backsliding,” “The question of developing a continental strategy to reduce dependence on foreign peacekeeping forces,” and “Preventing armed groups from exploiting Africa’s mineral resources.” 

Addressing coups is crucial for safeguarding democratic values and fostering stability across the continent. It ensures security and safety while preventing the endangerment of citizens and communities. Moreover, it strengthens governance and assures economic growth. Developing a strategy for local peacekeeping forces empowers African nations to enhance their security. It allows society to become more independent and encourages growth, specifically for marginalized groups.  Lastly, preventing the exploitation of mineral resources by armed groups is vital for ensuring that Africa’s wealth benefits local communities and promotes sustainable development. It allows smaller groups to gain appreciation for their work and earn a steady source of income.  Together, these discussions aim to strengthen governance, security, and resource management in Africa. 

I hope to assist everyone attending the conference by guiding delegates. I will also work alongside the other chairs to ensure that the conference is meaningful and enjoyable. I am excited to meet everyone and wish you the best of luck throughout the conference. 

Thank you, 

Sarah Bagaria