1956 Security Council – Day 1

1956 Security Council – Day 1

The conference began immediately with a moderated caucus to debate on which topic to begin with, and to set the agenda. The delegation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) began with a move to begin to debate the topic of the canal crisis, though they were quickly disputed by the delegation of the United Kingdom. The occupants quickly separated into two groups: those who would like to discuss the canal crisis, and those who would like to discuss Hungary. The delegations of Cuba and the USSR both spoke for the discussion of the Canal crisis, countered by the delegations of the United Kingdoms and Belgium against it. A motion was put to vote on the topic of the canal, and the majority of the delegates were against it. Because of this vote, we gathered here today to discuss the situation in Hungary, and find possible resolutions to solve the problem and appease tensions.

It’s 1956, and a nationwide revolt has broken out in Hungary against the government of the Hungarian’s People’s Republic and the heavy soviet presence in the country. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics had been in Hungary since the end of the Second World War, after they succeeded in driving out the Nazi forces in Eastern Europe. Thousands have organized in militias, and massive losses of life are being counted as the revolution degenerates into violence and bloodshed. Thousand of Hungarians are fleeing or being forced out of their homes as refugees. How can we help this humanitarian crisis? Through debating and working together.

In the debates today, some power players emerged from all the delegations. The delegations of the United Kingdoms, France, Belgium and Australia stepped up to the plate to deliver key points and evidence, as well as suggestions and zinging commentary. We even managed to squeeze in an interview with the delegation of Australia in the break between debates; catch it below this article.

Two un-moderated caucus’ were eventually called during the call for motions and points, and the delegations began to talk amongst themselves. We began to see the furnishing of two resolutions concerning the aid to Hungary and possible responses. Questions remained to be answered in the coming days of discussion.

• Will the USSR be an obstacle with their veto?
• What can we expect from the other delegations in regard to support or votes?
• Where will the aid come from, and in what way?

We’ll be there to report it all to you as it happens!

Kaitlyn Tice
Reporter

Interview with the delegation of Australia:

1. Where are you from?
   France.

2. What school did you come with?
   University of Nottingham

3. What motivated you to do MUN?
   I’m in the UN society at my school, so there’s that, and I like it, and I study International Relations, so it’s the thing to do.

4. What are some of your goals for this conference?
   Have fun, debate with the other delegations, practice the language

5. How do you like Rennes?
   I like it, the city, and I had already visited it before.