United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA)

APPROXIMATE COMMITTEE SIZE: 55 Double DELEGATIONS

The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is one of five regional commissions under the UN Economic and Social Council, dedicated to fostering sustainable development, economic integration, and political stability across the Arab region. Comprising 18 member states from North Africa to the Levant and the Gulf, ESCWA supports governments through data-driven policy advice, technical assistance, and regional coordination. In a region shaped by resource dependency, political transitions, and demographic pressures, ESCWA plays a vital role in advancing inclusive development strategies while promoting cooperation in the face of transboundary challenges. Topic A analyzes different methods through which oil-rich countries can diversify their global economic presence. Topic B will explore the role that youth unemployment plays in regional markets and how its mitigation can boost performance.

Chair: Ryan Reamy

TOPICS

Topic A: Promoting Economic Diversification in Oil-Dependent Economies

Topic B: Addressing Youth Unemployment Through Market Revitalization

lEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Analyze the political economy of oil dependence and assess strategic approaches to long-term diversification.

  • Investigate the drivers of youth unemployment in the Arab region and evaluate innovative, context-sensitive policy responses.

  • Understand the role of regional institutions like ESCWA in fostering cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and economic resilience across diverse member states.

about the chairs

Ryan Reamy is a member of the Class of 2026 in Georgetown’s Walsh School of Foreign Service majoring in International Political Economy, with minors in Statistics and International Business Diplomacy. Hailing from Seattle, Washington, Ryan is a proud product of the Pacific Northwest. He previously served as the Director of Operations for NAIMUN LXI and Chair of the African Development Bank during NAIMUN LXII. On campus, Ryan is involved in Georgetown’s Student Activities Commission, the Hilltop Microfinance Initiative, and Innovo Consulting. He also currently serves as Chief Financial Officer of the Georgetown International Relations Association. In his free time, Ryan loves getting outdoors and trying new restaurants around Washington. Ryan is thrilled to welcome delegates to DC as Chair of ESCWA and can’t wait to meet you all in the spring!