World Health Assembly

Honorable chairs, esteemed delegates, and distinguished guests,

My name is Leyna Biggs, a current Junior at Seoul Foreign School, and it is an honor to be serving as the President of the World Health Assembly in the 25th iteration of the SEOMUN conference.

Recently there have been a large range of events that have unraveled under the international spotlight. From the effects of Russia’s invasion into Ukraine, to the beginning discoveries of the long-term effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the worldwide rise in questioning the need of reproductive rights. Throughout the development of these international crises, something that has maintained a universally shared experience is the pain that humans experience both physically and mentally through hardships. The current events around the globe have left many injured both physically and mentally, which has also importantly shown international communities how crucial it is that attention is paid to having protective measures and legislation that looks after the wellbeing of all global citizens. 

It is critical to understand how major legislation has undeniable effects on the lives of their citizens. International communities experiencing unfathomable obstacles such as the pandemic and changes in legislation have proven that issues pertaining to the health and wellbeing of citizens spans way beyond borders and individual governments. In order to ensure that all citizens have equal access to their right to knowledge and control over their health, it is important to discuss how to provide all individuals with equal access to necessary healthcare services such as reproductive health services, vaccines, and all necessary healthcare treatments. Through large institutions like the UN, discussions can be held regarding ways to protect individual’s right to bodily autonomy. Discussions can also include ways that allow all individuals regardless of gender, social status, economic status, nation’s status as a LEDC or MEDC, or any other preconceived prejudices to affect their quality of life. 

As issues within communities internationally become increasingly visible, there is more room for improvement for you as delegates to act as catalysts of change. With the endless possibilities and opportunities for change, I, along with my co-chairs Aashna and June are excited to see how you will express your creative solutions in this conference during the fall. We wish you all the best of luck in your preparations and look forward to meeting you soon!

Kind regards,

Leyna Biggs

President of the World Health Assembly