Accountability Denied: UNODC, A Committee That Couldn’t Handle Questions

From day one, the UNODC delegates made it painfully clear that diplomacy was optional, but disrespect was not. Russia, who, when asked a question, simply responded with, “uhm… uh… and…,” followed by complete silence. A delegate representing one of the most powerful countries in the world was suddenly speechless when faced with real questions. Not a great look for someone expected to speak for an entire nation.

Then came Italy, who decided to answer with just two words: “No comment.” That’s it. In a committee that’s all about discussion and transparency, Italy acted like they were being interrogated instead of the press simply trying to ask relevant questions. Was the delegate unsure or simply uninterested? And then we had Ethiopia, who avoided answering a direct question from our press head and instead fired back with: “Okay, but do you understand my response?” Here’s the thing… no one did. Because there was no actual response. Just more talking at the press instead of answering us.

Additionally Mexico, a delegate who clearly thought he was the main character truly stole the spotlight. After acting as both a delegate and a volunteer (very confidently, might we add), he went on long, confusing rants, mixing his own thoughts with what his delegation was meant to represent. He confidently claimed his committee was “united” and functioning without conflict, brushing off every question with a smug sense of superiority. However moments after, Mexico and Columbia were seen arguing, very loudly by the way, right in front of the very press he claimed was so irrelevant. Turns out the press was the only one to catch when his narrative truly collapsed.

The press wasn’t rude, and wasn’t unfair. Clear, relevant, and thoughtful questions were asked, ones that any prepared delegate should have been ready to answer. Yet many chose to stay silent, avoid the point, or deflect entirely. In a committee dedicated to justice and accountability, that silence wasn’t just surprising, it was disappointing. This wasn’t just a challenging press conference. It became a moment that revealed the difference between delegates who were ready to lead, and those who were only confident when no one could question them.

Damon Crook

CNN