The Republic of Gran Colombia, 1828 CE
Topic Summary
In the wake of independence from Spanish rule, the Republic of Gran Colombia—uniting modern-day Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama—stands at a crossroads. The ambitious vision of a united Latin America, championed by Simón Bolívar, is threatened by growing regional tensions, economic instability, and competing political ideologies. This committee will simulate the pivotal year of 1828, a time marked by Bolívar’s increasing centralization of power, fierce debates over federalism versus strong executive leadership, and rising dissatisfaction among regional leaders. Delegates will grapple with questions of national identity, the role of the military, indigenous rights, and how to preserve—or reform—the fragile union before it fractures under the weight of its contradictions.
Dear delegates,
I’m Dino Perusko, a sophomore in Quincy House studying Anthropology and Applied Mathematics in Economics at Harvard. I’m originally from a small village in Istria, Croatia, and I’m involved as a leader for the First Year International Program, a member of the Crimson Key Society, and the Harvard Architecture Undergraduate Society.
Being from one of the countries of former Yugoslavia, the topic for this committee is of particular interest to me, especially given the controversial response—or lack thereof—from the international community at the time. I’m looking forward to meeting all of you and seeing the interesting and creative solutions you come up with during our committee.
Sincerely,
Dino Perusko
Director, The Republic of Gran Colombia, 1828 CE
grancolombia@harvardmun.org
Harvard Model United Nations 2026
Dear Delegates,
I’m Ana Marcela, from Cali, Colombia, and I’m currently a sophomore at Harvard College, studying neurobiology and philosophy. In terms of extracurricular activities, I’m involved in multiple organizations that are part of the International Relations Council, the Harvard Undergraduate Foreign Policy Initiative, as well as photography and dance clubs.
As a history nerd who was born and raised in Colombia, this committee is particularly exciting for me!
Best,
Ana Marcela
Crisis Director, The Republic of Gran Colombia, 1828 CE
grancolombia@harvardmun.org
Harvard Model United Nations 2026
