Topic A Discussion: Opium and the Effects to the Human Body

 Hey Delegates,

    I wanted to take some time today to talk about Opium and the detrimental harm it causes to the body. Oftentimes in Model UN, we consider problems from a big picture perspective, but I believe that the WHY is just as important. 

    Opium is a non-synthetic narcotic derived from the poppy plant. It is the most crude form of many other narcotics such as heroin, morphine, and codeine. Opium can be in the form of a liquid, solid, or a powder, but is usually found as a fine, brownish powder. Opium is a depressant that works on by slowing down the messages between the brain and body. Neurologically, opium enhances dopamine release, leading to states of euphoria, relaxation, and analgesia (the inability to feel pain). However, it also leads to a plethora of side-effects, including slower breathing, lower heart rate, impaired reflexes, and a loss of appetite. While the short-term effects seem quite dangerous, the long-term effects are even more detrimental: difficulty having children (for both men and women), constipation, and a dependence on the substance. Keeping aside the effects of opium on the body, a big problem with opium usage in China during the time period that this committee takes place was the high rate of overdoses of the drug. Like previously stated, opium use strains the heart which can lead to cardiovascular failure. This, in addition to the use of crude opium, led to a huge increase in overdoses and subsequently deaths of many Chinese citizens.

    The Chinese government's effort to eradicate the use of opium was in vain, particularly because of the rampant corruption and use of opium by higher ups in the government. Another issue was the extensive list of withdrawal symptoms which could start anywhere from 24 hours to 6 days after the last dose and stay for 7-10 days. These included depression. insomnia, restlessness, sweating, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting to name a few. 

    Keeping all this information in mind, I want you all to consider your character's policy in mind and answer the following questions in the comments below (you will get brownie points):

    1. Do your character's interests outweigh the effect of opium on the Chinese Populus. Why or why             not?

    2. How can you use this information in committee to enhance your presence in both front room and             backroom?

I'm forward to seeing you all in committee! Best of luck!


Best,

Vaishik

Vice Chair of Qing Crisis, BMUN 71


Sources:

https://substanceabusepolicy.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13011-020-00272-8

https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/opium/ 

    

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