Greetings Delegates,

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Welcome to the Special Political and Decolonization Committee at NIMUN XV. I am Abhay Bhardwaja, and it is both an honour and a privilege to serve as your Chair for this committee. I look forward to working alongside each of you as we address one of the most pressing challenges of our time: cyber sovereignty and the geopolitics of internet governance.

The internet is now the chief medium through which people speak to each other, do business, and exchange ideas. It was once imagined as a single, borderless space, open to all. That vision has faded. Nations are building walls in cyberspace, seeking to guard their own interests. Others argue that the internet should remain open and shared. The interplay between these approaches will define the future of the internet and the balance of power in the 21st century.

Cyber governance is no longer a purely technical matter; it is inherently geopolitical. It is a question of power — who holds it, who wields it, and for whose benefit. It touches the safety of our cities, the dignity of our citizens, and the balance of power between nations. Some will argue for absolute sovereignty in cyberspace. Others will fight for a single, open network. Both paths carry risks, and both demand scrutiny. 

As delegates, you have the responsibility to navigate the fine line between respecting sovereignty and ensuring that the internet remains an inclusive platform for development and dialogue.

Let us use this session to deepen our understanding, find common ground where possible, and shape proposals that reflect both national interests and the shared interests of the global community. With your dedication and insight, I am confident we can make meaningful strides toward an approach that is secure, equitable, and truly representative of the global community.

Let’s work together to shape the future of cyberspace for the benefit of all.

To a fair and open future,

Abhay Bhardwaja
Chairperson, Special Political and Decolonization Committee