Committee Description

In 2005, the United Nations recorded that 100 million people worldwide were unhoused, a number that rose to 150 million in 2021 according to the World Economic Forum. However, it is difficult to get an accurate picture of the housing crisis, as definitions of adequacy vary from country to country. Furthermore, informal housing solutions often fail to provide essential public services that maintain health and security. The responsibility of improving and preserving the right to adequate housing falls on the Social, Humanitarian & Cultural Committee (SOCHUM).

SOCHUM, or The United Nations General Assembly Third Committee, is dedicated to addressing social and humanitarian concerns that affect people worldwide. It has 193 member states and 12 associate members that work to promote and protect fundamental human rights. In this double delegation committee, delegates will represent SOCHUM member states and work to address several key issues related to the housing crisis, including increasing population density, gentrification, and inadequate public infrastructure. Delegates must be forward-thinking and proactive in their approach to protecting the right to adequate housing and public services. The dais encourages a specific focus on public housing solutions, renter’s rights, and utility access; however, delegates also have the creative freedom to go beyond this. Delegates will need to work collaboratively to develop robust solutions and comprehensive regulatory frameworks that address these issues.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Rose Cioffi at gaecosoc@ssuns.org

Bianca Tri

Co-Chair

Joshua Kertesz

Co-Chair