JCC: The Elephant & The Whale, 216: The Second Punic War — Rome

APPROXIMATE COMMITTEE SIZE: 25 delegates

Heavy is the head that wears the crown. The emperor is dead, and in his wake he leaves behind a gaping power chasm and a drained and disconnected empire in the Indian subcontinent. As the Court of the Mughal Empire, delegates have no shortage of problems to consider during this committee. Firstly, as it stands, the empire is in desperate need of organization. However, the form this leadership takes, whether it is leadership by committee or a new ruler who makes a play for the throne, lies in the hands of the delegates. Looking outward, the Mughal Imperial Court has to address the consequences of the chaotic state of the Indian subcontinent. Firstly, the warlords of India, individuals who have often worked under oversight and control by the Mughal Empire, have grown increasingly unruly and are looking to gain power. Skirmishes and sieges have emerged all over the empire. Second, many conventional trade lines and relationships, both domestically and internationally, have been disrupted. The committee must determine how to reignite the economy if the nation ever hopes to stabilize itself. Lastly, the legitimacy of the empire in the nation is currently in question. Legitimacy comes in many forms, whether political, cultural, or charismatic. And as an empire that did not originate on the subcontinent, legitimacy in the eyes of the people is all the more necessary to keep the fractured state together. The delegates must find a way to gain this legitimacy as the empire enters a new chapter.

ISSUES TO CONSIDER

Should Rome Fight Defensively or Take the War to Carthage?

Ensuring the Loyalty of the Italian Population and Allies

Political Implications of Military Defeats for Authority and Leadership Figures

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Understand the challenges of defending a large and diverse republic under threat of foreign invasion.

• Assess the political consequences of military decisions.

• Develop approaches for preserving internal cohesion and external alliances during wartime.

About the Chair

Kimmy Jeon is a member of Georgetown University’s class of 2028 studying Physics. She’s especially interested in biotech, engineering, and social impact work, and has competed in the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, earning multiple awards. Kimmy holds several patents for inventions like a 3D-printed prosthetic and a visual display for the visually impaired. At Georgetown, she’s involved with the Business and Healthcare Association, the National Marrow Donor Program chapter, and the Undergraduate Student Association. She also volunteers with organizations like e-NABLE and See3D, helps lead prison justice and education initiatives, and founded a nonprofit supporting Ukrainian refugees. She is excited to see you all in DC for NAIMUN LXIII!

About the Crisis manager

Norman Wang is a member of the class of 2026 studying International Economics at Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service. Originally from Shanghai and having grown up in Canada, Norman speaks Mandarin, English, and French. On campus, he is passionate about applying data analysis to global economic challenges and is especially interested in economic consulting, international development, and the political economy of technology. Outside of academics, he enjoys playing jazz on the saxophone. Norman is excited to be part of Organ and contribute to a dynamic and meaningful experience!