Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD)
Alan Raskin
Chair
In an era defined by rapid technological advancement, the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) is dedicated to navigating the complexities of today’s digital landscape. Through strategic policy formulation and collaboration, delegates should aim to harness the transformative potential of emerging technologies to foster inclusive development, bridge digital divides, and propel societies toward a more sustainable future.
TOPIC A: Combatting Misinformation and Preserving Democracy
The first topic confronts the spread of misinformation that poses a threat to the very foundation of democracy. As falsehoods propagate at unprecedented speed across online platforms, the world’s collective ability to discern fact from fiction is challenged like never before. Delegates should consider censoring media, enhancing digital literacy programs, and addressing the role of public-private players. Furthermore, defining a nation’s commitment to democracy requires innovative strategies that leverage technology while mitigating its potential for manipulation and exploitation. As the committee debates the intricacy of social media platforms, online forums, and digital news outlets, the dissemination of false narratives and manipulation of information has become pervasive, undermining the foundations of democratic governance.
TOPIC B: Regulating Artificial Intelligence for Ethical and Sustainable Development
The second topic finds itself at a crossroads where innovation intersects with profound ethical dilemmas. As artificial intelligence permeates into every aspect of people’s lives, from healthcare to education, the urgency to regulate its development becomes ever more pressing. Delegates are invited to direct artificial intelligence for ethical and sustainable development, encapsulating the delicate balance between harnessing the transformative power of AI and safeguarding against its potential pitfalls such as bias, privacy/security, and job displacement. In this era of unprecedented technological advancement, our committee assumes a critical role in shaping the trajectory of AI, ensuring it serves as a force for positive change while upholding shared values of equity, transparency, and accountability.
