A theme makes every MUNISH special and unique to keep ideas fresh and topics current. Every MUNISH adopts a theme that forms the centre for all discussions and issues on the agenda.
| Theme | Description | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Fostering Development: The Complexities of an Interconnected World | The theme for the XXIX annual MUNISH conference is: Fostering Development: The Complexities of an Interconnected World, which aims to emphasize the growth, action and unity needed on an international level. This theme was designed to incorporate all 17 Sustainable Development Goals, whilst simultaneously encouraging a broader perspective with regards to both our past and present but most importantly our future. An interconnected world refers to the relations, associations and intertwining nations at political, economic, social, environmental and technological levels. By tackling the complexities associated with an interconnected world, we will strive to accept all beliefs, ideals and morals, whilst working together towards a shared goal that is beneficial to all. This theme inspires new outlooks and active debates, encompassing the wide range of cultures that come together to discuss the issues our global society faces today. The theme recognizes the pitfalls resulting from interconnectedness and aims to resolve issues of such by prompting constructive and contemporary solutions. In a world that is more globalised and advanced than ever, it is essential to focus on resolving issues that inhibit all of us from living in prosperity with each other. Hence, to conquer such complexities, innovative thinking is essential, considering our shared fundamental principles; peace, justice, human rights, solidarity and global cooperation. The theme for MUNISH 2019 will provide us with an urge to build a brighter and united future. Remembering the words of the Dalai Lama: "In today’s interconnected and globalized world, it is now commonplace for people of dissimilar world views, faiths and races to live side by side. It is a matter of great urgency, therefore, that we find ways to cooperate with one another in a spirit of mutual acceptance and respect." This sentiment will act as the backbone of this year’s MUNISH conference, emulated in the issues debated and the focus of the Special Conference. | 2019 |
| Peace, Justice and Inclusive Societies | The theme for the XXVII annual MUNISH conference is: ‘Peace, Justice & Inclusive Societies’, which derives from Sustainable Development Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. Central to this theme are fundamental issues such as: protection of human rights; sustained economic growth and development; social integration; social cohesion; and much more. This goal is undermined by conflict, which can be created where there is a lack of tolerance towards religion, ethnicity, and belief. By striving towards “Inclusive societies”, the goal is to reduce conflict and therefore to promote peace and justice. Concepts such as social integration, cohesion and participation help to contribute to eradicating child poverty, violence and income inequality. We need innovative solutions and the inspiration of a new generation facing these challenges in an increasingly globalised world. We can make the world of tomorrow one which can be enjoyed and cherished. In the words of Kofi Annan: “More than ever before in human history, we share a common destiny. We can master it only if we face it together.” | 2017 |
| Growth and Accountability | The theme for the XXVI annual MUNISH conference is ‘Growth and Accountability’. This theme allows every participant at the conference to discuss important issues confronting humanity in the 21st century such as; peace and security, sustainable development, human rights and more. The theme of Growth allows delegates to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with it. For example, many nations are facing the challenge of managing population growth and sustaining economic growth. In contrast, we are also witnessing opportunities that arise from the growth of technologies that enable sustainable energy sources and that improve the quality of life for global citizens. Due to the nature of the complexity of Growth, Accountability is a vital accompaniment: it ensures that the international community manages growth in a way that is sustainable and that takes responsibility for the far-reaching consequences of it within nations and across international borders. It is today's reality that we are increasingly failing to reach a common goal of sustainable global growth objectives that take into account the impact of national decisions on the international community, particularly in regards to economic, social and environmental protectionism. It is through Growth and Accountability that we can successfully tackle many of the issues confronting humanity: the overriding mission of the United Nations. Growth must be coupled with Accountability to ensure that we continue taking steps towards greater stability, prosperity and peace. As Ban Ki-Moon said “Saving our planet, lifting people out of poverty, advancing economic growth - these are one and the same fight. Solutions to one problem must be solutions for all.” In harmony with the theme, lets make these solutions - reality. | 2016 |
| Good Governance and Cooperation | This theme allows every participant at the conference to discuss important issues that are essential to maintaining political, economic and social stability. 'Good Governance' and 'Cooperation' are two of the United Nation’s main goals. Cooperation involves nations working together across and between nations while good governance involves what is happening within nations with governments working effectively and efficiently for the good of their citizens. However, today’s reality is that there is significant inequality throughout the world. It is through cooperation and good governance that these challenges might be addressed. Therefore, if governments can achieve these fundamental objectives, they can consequently achieve, transparency, accountability, equality, and unity. Vint Cerf once said, “Remember, 'governance' is a big word that includes human rights, freedom of speech, economic transactions on a worldwide basis -‐ it touches everything. It's everywhere...". Therefore, in accordance with the theme, we will seek to tackle these topics and many more. | 2015 |
| Security and Development | The theme for MUNISH 2014 is ‘Security and Development’. This theme invites the conference’s diverse range of participants to join and discuss questions that are crucial to the future. Is development always beneficial? To what extent does development contribute to various forms of security, such as food security? In what ways do new developments, such as technological advances, threaten security? Albert Einstein once said, “All that is valuable in human society depends upon the opportunity for development accorded the individual”. Yet despite the importance of ‘Development’ in the context of ‘Security’ and despite modern development, millions still lack access to their basic human rights. If so many cannot access security in the way of food, water or education, how can we as a society expect to develop? In accordance with the theme, our issues will seek to tackle these, and other questions. | 2014 |
| Peace and Justice | 2013 | |
| Power and Responsibility | 2012 | |
| 21st Century Innovation | 2011 |