Message from the Secretary General 

Esteemed directors, distinguished delegates, and most-welcomed guests,

Charles Darwin wrote in his Origin of Species, "extinction of old forms is the almost inevitable consequence of the production of new forms." Rapid cycles of change confront humanity: old art forms are replaced with pop culture, technological innovations optimize and substitute manual tasks, and fundamental ways of living are altered. With such change comes the destruction of what is perceived to be obsolete - a "creative destruction." The idea that stagnation is regression, inaction is complacency, and still water turns foul takes hold. Endorsement of progress as Joseph Schumpeter imagined appeals as issues that confront the international community come to a standstill. 

Yet, "Creative Destruction" implies the inevitable tradeoff between preserving elements of the old world and efficient progress. The conference theme is not an endorsement of this idea that a strict tradeoff exists. Instead, the theme of "Creative Destruction" at SMICMUN IX serves to confront delegates and everyone involved to grapple with this concept and to challenge it. 

If suffocating a process of innovation seems undesirable, how will we distribute its gains? If creative destruction is an inevitability, how do we ensure that ordinary people are protected against its adverse effects? How do we make use of what is left behind?  The committee topics at SMICMUN IX and every element of the conference will encourage delegates to reflect on these questions, developing their unique perspectives on the intersection of innovation and preservation. 

Looking forward to meeting everyone in November! 

Warm regards,

Leo Shin

Secretary-General, SMICMUN IX