Topic Summary
The year is 1876—the middle of the Meiji Restoration of Imperial Japan. The Emperor Meiji has called upon his most trusted advisors and leaders of the restoration to meet in the now-renamed capital of Japan, Tokyo. Delegates will be tasked to join a journey of 13 years as members of Emperor Meiji’s cabinet to discuss the radical changes of Japan’s ‘enlightenment period.’ From tensions rising between different political factions and rebel groups to councilmen trying to stabilize Japan before traveling to the West, these thirteen years will form Japan as the center and main power of East Asia.
Remember, most trusted advisors: Fukoku kyōhei—Enrich the Country, Strengthen the Military.
This will be a directive-style committee.
Director: Kathy Cuellar
Kathy is a senior majoring in Political Science and International Relations, minoring in Asian Studies, and pursuing certificates in Latin American and Caribbean Studies, National Security Studies, and Asian Globalization and Latin America. Kathy was a member of the FIMUN Secretariat for the last two years, and this will be her first time directing a committee at FIMUN! Despite this being her first time directing, she is very familiar with Model UN, as she serves as one of FIUMUN’s Heads of Crisis Training Directors and has been a member of the traveling team since 2023. Outside of MUN, Kathy serves as a mentor for FIU’s GHDO club and enjoys hobbies such as reading and engaging in debates about the ancient politics of Asian countries. She is super excited to meet you all at FIMUN 38 and hopes you guys are ready to change the course of Japanese history (or not)!
Chair: Joaquin Espinal
Joaquin Espinal is a Freshman at Florida International University, and is currently majoring in Political Science and International Relations. He aspires to become an ambassador, and has a fierce passion for international issues and diplomacy. This is Joaquin’s first year apart of the Model UN team at FIU, but does have previous experience from high school. Though this is his first time chairing, Joaquin is ecstatic to take part in FIUMUN 38. Outside of MUN, Joaquin enjoys watching sports such as soccer, football, basketball, baseball, and Formula 1 (COYS, FINS UP, GO HEAT, GO YANKEES, & FORZA FERRARI). He also enjoys spending time with friends, family, and staying active. Joaquin looks forward to cooperating with delegates to traverse the changing of the guard in the Meijing Revolution.