Committee Profile

The World Health Organization (WHO), founded in 1948 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is the specialized United Nations agency dedicated to global health and safety. Genome editing is defined by the WHO as a method for making specific changes to the DNA of a cell or organism in order to add, remove or alter DNA in the genome. This technology, using tools such as CRISPR-Cas9, can be used in both somatic and germline cells. Somatic genome editing is well-established in scientifically advanced countries for the treatment of certain conditions, such as HIV and sickle-cell disease, whereas clinical applications of heritable germline editing at this time has been deemed irresponsible by the WHO Director-General. In recent years, extraordinary developments have demonstrated the clinical potential of gene editing technology. An excellent testament to this is the 2025 case of baby KJ Muldoon, the first human to receive a personalized gene-editing treatment, where CRISPR technology was used to treat his CPS1 deficiency, a rare and fatal metabolic disorder. Although exciting, it is imperative to acknowledge the medical and ethical implications that accompany such breakthroughs. Delegates are challenged to balance innovation and responsibility, working to establish policies that protect the integrity of the human genome, promote equitable access to emerging treatments, and prevent the exploitation of unregulated gene-editing practices.