Committee on Science and Technology for Development
Topic Summary
Addressing Technological Disparities between Developed and Developing Nations
Across developing regions, the digital divide has emerged as a central development challenge, shaping access to education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and political participation as societies move online. Gaps in connectivity, affordability, digital skills, and institutional capacity leave rural communities, low income households, and marginalized groups disproportionately excluded from the benefits of digitalization. Beyond access, the divide reflects deeper structural issues related to data control, platform ownership, and unequal participation in global digital markets. As advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and data driven services expand, countries without strong human capital and regulatory frameworks risk falling into a second digital divide, consuming technology without the capacity to govern or adapt it. The challenge is twofold: expanding inclusive digital access while building local capacity, and designing governance and cooperation frameworks that promote innovation, equity, and sustainable development without reinforcing global inequalities.
Meet your Director!
Dear Delegates,
It is with immense pleasure that I welcome you to the Commission on Science and Technology for Development! My name is Rocio Jimenez, and I am honored to be your Director for HMUN Australia 2026. I’m excited to hear the arguments each one of you brings to the table in our committee, and I hope you see this conference as an opportunity for growth, learning, and collaboration.
I was born and raised in Tucuman, Argentina. I am currently a junior at Harvard College studying Economics and Government. During high school in Argentina, I discovered my passion for public speaking, international relations, and social sciences in general. That allowed me to start looking at things with a global viewpoint, researching current pressing issues, and learning from people with very different perspectives. It even motivated me to apply to universities in the U.S.A., hoping to be able to learn in a diverse and supportive environment.
I have been involved in MUN since my freshman year at Harvard. I started as an Assistant Director, and later served as a Director for HNMUN Latin America, HMUN, and HNMUN, and as Undersecretary-General for Committees for HMUN China. Being part of these conferences has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my college experience so far. This coming May, I have the privilege of serving as your Director for the CSTD at HMUN Australia 2026!
During committee, I look forward to hearing you debate about lots of innovative and holistic ideas to address the issue of technological disparities. I urge you to come prepared, not only with research and policy positions, but also with an open mind and an inclination to listen. Our committee will only be as powerful as the ideas and energy each of you brings. During debate, stand up for your position, challenge each other respectfully, and always be aware of the practical ramifications of the questions we are discussing. Remember that your contributions have the potential to shape the course of our discussion. As your committee chair, I aim to create a collaborative, engaging, and fun atmosphere. I hope that you will join me in making HMUN Australia 2026 a conference to remember.
I look forward to all of your creative ideas and thoughtful debate in committee. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to shoot me an email, whether it be questions pertaining to the background guide, inquiries about how the committee will be run, or simply just saying hello!
Sincerely,
Rocio Jimenez
Chair of the Commission on Science and Technology for Development
HMUN Australia 2026