Position paper for General Assembly First Committee
| Country: | Algeria |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Practical disarmament measures are pivotal for sustaining peace in regions recovering from
conflict. As a state located in North Africa and very close to the volatile Sahel region, we
share our borders with states like Libya, where arms proliferation is a major issue. Algeria
also shares borders with countries known to possess weapons of mass destruction (WMDs),
making disbarment a key security issue for us. By reducing the availability of arms, countries
and international organizations can address the root causes of instability, limit the
recurrence of violence, and support long-term development. We want to emphasize the
need for practical disbarment as a key pillar on conflict resolution and post-conflict recovery.
The global arms and proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) remain significant
obstacles to peace. In most post-conflict societies/populations, the abundance of illicit arms
leads to violence, criminality, and instability, which hinder peacebuilding efforts. Additionally,
states often lack the institutional capacity to effectively manage disarming initiatives, which
then further complicates the peace process.
We believe that in order to further increase disarmament efforts, governments with the support of international organizations must prioritize the collection and destruction of surplus weapons, especially SALW, to reduce their availability and potential use in renewed conflicts. Disarmament should also be coupled with demobilization and reintegration (DDR) programs that provide former combatants with economic and social support to reintegrate into society. We also need to encourage capacity-building initiatives, including improving arms control legislation and enhancing border security, which are essential for long-term disarmament success. And obviously none of this can be accomplished without international cooperation. In order to have a successful implementation of disarmament measures, support from the United Nations, regional organizations, and donor countries can help provide the technical and financial support needed for effective arms reduction. | |
| Country: | Algeria |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Chemical weapons, as a WMD, can inflict devastating humanitarian and environmental impacts. Algeria's position has been consistent against the use, development, production, and stockpiling of chemical weapons. We remain actively involved in dialogue about their use in both the policy realm, but also in education about preventing and dealing with chemical weapon attacks. Despite the productive global success of handling chemical weapons, there are still a few states within Algeria's regional blocks around North Africa and the Middle East that have not signed and/or ratified the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Specifically, In light of chemical weapon possession in the Middle East, we have an interest in revisiting regional actors who have not ratified the CWC and possess chemical weapons. Likewise, we recommend looking more closely at the possession of white phosphorus as a possible chemical weapon, as it has historical regional use by Israel to drastic human consequences, as a state that has not ratified the CWC. We find this necessary to achieve regional security goals, especially regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Iran, and Israel on the Palestinian people, which could potentially involve chemical weapon use. Algeria supports actions to further develop the usage policy for chemical weapons and amending the categorization of white phosphorus to ban it. In stressing our continued efforts to deal with chemical weapons, we plan on continuing to aid the OPCW and work with our regional allies in the African Union and the Arab League. In addition, while we fully support the elimination and management of chemical weapons, we still find it best to proceed with sensitivity to state sovereignty and geopolitical position. | |
| Country: | Argentina |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| In the wake of past authoritarian violence, we as an international community must stand in firm affirmation of a more just tomorrow. Past human rights abuses and secretive military operations must be rejected in order to maintain a cohesive, peaceful global system. The member states must take steps to form reasonable rules and regulations while also trusting countries to incorporate new, technically advanced systems into their militaries. With a rise of internal threats worldwide, we affirm the need for countries to modernize their stockpiles to ensure stability. We must not stray too far in our international regulation or we risk becoming no better than the authoritarians of our past. State sovereignty must be prioritized while also allowing for a collective movement for a more stable future. We suggest the tabling for continued discussion of Resolution A/73/510, for new sections addressing new automated weaponry. We believe that these sections allow for states to implement new military technologies while allowing for transparency to the international community. We urge member states to determine their own oversight plans for disarmament while prioritizing public-private partnerships to develop and better these military technologies. | |
| Country: | Argentina |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The country of Argentina is for the actions in removing any plans to develop, produce, or stockpile chemical weapons. We believe this prohibition of chemical weapons will further our collective union as a free and peaceful world, and save countless lives in the future for innocent lives. The Geneva Convention and other Disarmament Acts have been great towards the prohibition of chemical weapons, however there is more to be done. We believe that more disarmament acts should be passed, to help prevent loss of innocent lives. This is why we propose a new Disarmament Act to be ratified by the end of next fiscal year. Within this act it will have specific guidelines on what is considered a chemical weapon, and what specific types of chemical weapons will be listed as Illegal to the United Nations. In this Disarmament Act we will also be specific in listing what kind of sanctions and punishments will be put in place over any County who is to violate this act. This Disarmament Act will also have inputs to outlaw any type of stockpiling or use of chemical weapons. We plan to base this new Disarmament Act after the original text of the Geneva Convention, as this is already accepted and known as a worldwide document to the prohibition of chemical weapons. I am also calling on the powerful countries of the world to lead by example in this cause and show others why we need to get rid of these weapons. We call on your support in hope that other countries will do the same and join and ratify this Disarmament Act, seeing as the world leaders are in support of it. With the ratification of this new Disarmament Act, the world will become a safer place for all. | |
| Country: | Australia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Commonwealth of Australia has been dedicated to peace through diplomacy rather than force. Since the establishment of the United Nations in 1945, we have been fully committed to the major disarmament treaties including those involving weapons of mass destruction and inhuman conventional armaments. Australias consistent attempts for a better world through disarmament include a comprehensive ban on nuclear tests, and we have been vocal about our International Partnership for Nuclear Disarmament Verification initiative. In 2010, Australia was part of the Non-Proliferation Treaty Review Conference which came up with a 64-point action plan which includes many steps required to advance the objectives the NPT was created to do. Australia helped establish the Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Initiative, promoting action and maintaining pressure on the nuclear weapon states to meet their commitments. Australia will continue to advocate for the disarmament of nuclear weapons. | |
| Country: | Australia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Australia is against the use, development, production, and stockpiling of chemical and nuclear weapons based on their massive destructive capabilities. Having joined the Non- Proliferation and Disarmament Initiative, we are actively ensuring that the countries that do hold these weapons are committed to complying with UN standards. Australias consistent attempts for a better world through disarmament includes our signing of the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1993 and our passing of the Chemical Weapons Prohibition Act in 1994. Our dedication to the Chemical Weapons Convention, in which parties have agreed to destroy stockpiles of chemical weapons and their facilities, as well as our signature on many other conventions limiting the use of chemical weapons, is a key indication of Australias stance on the topic. As stated in Australias 1995 Canberra Commission on the Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, only certain nation states possess these weapons of mass destruction and therefore this situation is highly discriminatory and thus unstable. We ask that all chemically-armed countries disarm themselves so that we might live in a more safe world. | |
| Country: | Belarus |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| We strongly support the consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures.
Furthermore, we advocate for the international community to increase actions towards
specific disarmament measures. Peace is a critical topic, and, to ensure stability and security
globally, we must make this agenda of peace. The First Committee has previously taken
measures to address disarmament measures before. Through UN resolutions, such as
Resolution 74/54, which called for effective disarmament, and Resolution 61/89, which
established the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). These resolutions are essential to consolidate
peace in regions across the world. The UN should promote regional disarmament measures
as a leeway for global security and strengthen specific frameworks.
Global peace can only be achieved by reducing the number of weapons in certain conflict- prone regions. By disarming, we can limit violence and foster trust between surrounding nations. The UN must enhance support for these measures to help consolidate peace, especially in war-prone countries. Expanding programs like the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) and specific resolutions like 74/54 and 61/89 will reduce armed violence. By preventing weapons from reaching sectors, like extremist groups, where the state is not in control. We have disarmed our nuclear arsenal voluntarily through the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NFT) to maintain global security. Our ongoing commitment to consolidate peace through arms disarmament is needed from others. To consolidate peace, we must strengthen previously passed disarmament frameworks to be able to address current conflicts. The UN must initiate new promoting more disarmament mechanisms to be a leeway for global security. These efforts will help reduce violence and create a foundation for global security and peace. | |
| Country: | Belarus |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| With regard to the implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction (CWC), we support disciplining states which disregard the ban on chemical weapons. These include stronger sanctions, such as those which limit imports of essential goods, on states that use chemical weapons. Additionally, we support sanctions on states that do not discipline non-state actors within their territory for using chemical weapons. States which are in close proximity to larger states that are actively attempting to expand power and land are greatly threatened by the possibility of chemical weapon usage. Some of these powerful states have signed on to the CWC, but this does not mean we can ignore the possibility of them using these banned weapons. Member states should be aware they will have strong sanctions from multiple states placed on them if they are to use chemical weapons. Additionally, there are four member states which have not signed onto the CWC. We must be able to prevent these states from using chemical weapons, and defend states which may be victim to their usage. States in close proximity to those which are more likely to use these banned weapons must be equipped with the proper deterrents, and should be supported by member states that are in trade agreements with the four non-signees. Though we commend the CWC for effectively aiding in the destruction of 100% of signed member states chemical weapons stockpiles, we must be wary of the threat of reemergence of chemical weapon development and stockpiling, as well as the possibility of non-state actors using these weapons. | |
| Country: | Belgium |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Kingdom of Belgium is committed to continuing to play an active role in promoting
practical disarmament measures and continual support for collective global peace. The
delegate of Belgium believes that information transparency, proper distribution of
peacekeeping forces, and peace initiatives, increasing regional cooperation will play a key role
in keeping global peace or helping reach that goal. The delegate of the Kingdom of Belgium
underlines once more that more resources should be devoted to the reinforcement of the
infrastructure of the disarmament process and to the development of monitoring mechanisms
within international frameworks where these proper measures might lead to unfair and unjust
disarmament, causing more challenges to the achievement of global peace.
Belgium is committed to a world with no armed violence and sustainable peace through collective efforts. Belgium ranks 16 in the latest Transparency International index, which shows that not only is Belgium consistent with ranking in the top 20 in least corrupt nations for over a decade but also that it abides by what the Delegate wishes to propose to the committee. Ultimately, the delegate believes with proper resource allocation from the UN and just and fair acceptance of new policies we can potentially take huge steps in global peace through this practical disarmament measure. | |
| Country: | Belgium |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The threat posed by chemical weapons remains a global concern due to their devastating
impact on human life, health, and the environment. Despite the efforts to strictly ban them in
the 1925 Geneva Protocol they are still at many countries' disposal to this day. It has been a
topic of great controversy and conspiracy-driven throughout the last century. The Chemical
Weapons Convention (CWC) founded in 1997 plays a critical role in eliminating these chemical
weapons through strict monitoring and enforcement. While CWC's persistence has bode well,
due to non-compliance and limited verification their efforts are still nowhere close to being fully
realized. This has resulted in the persistence of chemical weapons, despite CWC's efforts
potentially leading to the potential use of inhumane weapons for future international and
national conflicts.
Belgium has shown a deep commitment to the cause of CWC through its drastic measures to the disposal of its chemical weapons in its Poelkapelle facility. Belgium fully supports the CWC's objectives and emphasizes the importance of international cooperation and transparency of nations. The delegate of the Kingdom of Belgium strongly advocates for strengthening verification mechanisms, increasing financial and technical support for states in need, and promoting the peaceful use of chemical technologies through scientific collaboration. Belgium is committed to working with all member states to enhance the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and ensure a world free from chemical weapons through collective action. | |
| Country: | Brazil |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Through their actions, the stance that the Federative Republic of Brazil has taken on practical
disarmament is clear. Brazil has long been an advocate for nuclear disarmament and is
against the possession and development of nuclear weapons. Over the years the Federative
Republic of Brazil has been involved in discussions and treaty signings concerning practical
disarmament. Brazil has long been an advocate for nuclear disarmament and is against the
possession and development of nuclear weapons. As a first step in making a clear stance, in
1990 Brazil abdicated the nuclear weapons program that it had been trying to establish since
the 1970s. We furthermore signed an agreement with Argentina to set up a joint system that
ensures both countries use nuclear energy only for peaceful processes. Continuing on the
path of building a peaceful environment, Brazil signed the Treaty of Tlatelolco, which
established Latin America and the Caribbean as a nuclear weapon free zone and the Nuclear
Non Proliferation Treaty. These steps built foundations for the solid policy that Brazil has in
place to consolidate peace in the global space by disarmament.
In more recent times, Brazil has signed the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons which was adopted by the United Nations and has been an early supporter of this treaty. Brazil served as an active member in the negotiations for this treaty that has been described by the current government under President Lula Da Silva as a big priority for the Brazilian nation. Alongside South Africa, Egypt, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand and Slovenia, Brazil formed the New Agenda Coalition and criticized nuclear armed and capable states for not committing to the swift and permanent elimination of all their nuclear weapons and capabilities. In 2016, Brazil expressed its view that the best immediate action for nuclear disarmament is to negotiate a treaty that bans nuclear weapons with clear commitments from every state. The goal of this treaty would be to hasten the creation of the path to a world without nuclear weapons. Through its international actions, Brazil has contributed to strengthening the peace and security of the world and believes that the peaceful diplomatic relationships that it has formed as a result of these actions is an encouragement to continue to act substantively to disarmament. | |
| Country: | Brazil |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Federative Republic of Brazil has always been strongly opposed to the use and development of chemical weapons. For instance, the Federative Republic of Brazil is a member of the executive council of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons or OPCW and has been a member of OPCW since 1996. With Brazil's help, the OPCW has been very successful in reducing the number of chemical weapons in the world as well as gaining commitments from the United States and Russia to reduce their stockpiles of chemical weapons. The Federative Republic of Brazil has also signed the Mendoza Agreement with Argentina and Chile and has committed ourselves to prohibiting the use and development of chemical weapons in Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. The Brazilian military hosted the first laboratory used by OPCW to test environmental samples to see if chemical weapons were used making Brazil a key player in the prohibition of chemical weapons in South America. As one of the largest producers of chemicals the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation regulations the export of chemicals from Brazil. Brazil has also contributed almost 50,000 euros to the OPCW for the Chemtech center which will increase the OPCW's ability to deal with chemical weapon threats. With all this being said Brazil wants to state that research and development of chemicals for non-military use is still very important, as chemicals have been a huge benefit to the modern world and there needs to be a balance in regulations that allow for the advancements of chemical research and restriction of chemicals being used for ill intent. Brazil is very much in favor of creating new protocols to better protect against research in chemicals intended to do harm to people and the distribution of chemicals that can be used to create chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Canada |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Canada is committed to Article I of the United Nations Charter in our
efforts to consolidate peace through practical disarmament measures. We emphasize the
need for military stockpile transparency, through accurate reporting to the United Nations
Register of Conventional Arms and Military Expenditures databases. We will support the
implementation of similar Military Confidence-Building Measures as a practical method of
disarmament and partake in discussions on further ways to promote international and
regional cooperation on the topic.
One of our priorities is facilitating diversity and inclusion in disarmament efforts. We promote educating women in science, technology, engineering and math for the field, as well as research into gender perspectives, through our Gender and Disarmament Programme. We will advocate for more international action to involve women in conventional weapons disarmament by collaborating on resolutions that include similar diversity programs to our own at conference. Canada additionally upholds support for existing treaties regarding the regulation of conventional armaments. We highlight the importance of Member States adhering to the treaties to further progress their purposes. We are specifically concerned about Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems and the threat that they pose to international security. The lack of human control and potential malfunction in these systems makes regulation necessary. Therefore, Canada will back a resolution to define Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems and include them under the conditions of the Arms Trade Treaty or similar legally binding instrument. We seek collaboration with our fellow nations in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, as well as those in the European Union and any other like-minded States willing to collaborate to achieve progress on military Confidence-Building Measures, gender and disarmament, and the regulation of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems as they pertain to the consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures. | |
| Country: | Canada |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Canada affirms the details and goals adopted by the 1992
Convention on the
Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons
and on
Their Destruction (CWC). We are committed to the complete elimination of chemical
weapons
and to holding those who use chemical weapons accountable through the guidelines
outlined in
the CWC. We believe that the CWC is the vital backbone to the elimination of chemical
weapons
and thus requires efficient enforcement mechanisms to ensure that the guidelines are
legitimately followed.
As a lead supporter of the independent Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), the delegation of Canada would like to focus this year's conference on addressing compliance concerns, implementing obligations, and strengthening the OPCW. It is vital that Member States who have yet to sign or ratify the CWC do so immediately to assist in the adherence of Article I of the UN Charters focus on maintaining international peace. We intend to introduce the call for fair guidelines to be put in place for violating the obligations of the CWC. We are also a lead supporter of the OPCW and support its mission to implement the obligations of the CWC. We plan on discussing the enhancement of the OPCWs capabilities to better monitor compliance and respond to emerging threats. Actions taken towards this goal like the new Centre for Chemistry and Technology that opened in May of 2023 assisted in this goal. We seek collaboration with our fellow nations in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the European Union, and other like-minded states that also share an interest in promoting international peace and the elimination of chemical weapons through the implementation of the CWC. We believe that a stronger CWC will play a vital role in the growth of international peace and safety. | |
| Country: | Chile |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The former President of the Republic of Chile, Sebastian Pinera, said, it is not only that a
few
countries in the world will have nuclear weapons and others not, but to have a world without
weapons of mass destruction. The Republic of Chile stands firmly against acquiring and
maintaining ownership of any Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and nuclear devices.
We
recognize that about fifty percent of the States today have signed the Treaty on the
Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) with many still yet to ratify it. The Republic of Chile
has demonstrated its commitment to the TPNW by faithfully adhering to its principles and
diligently upholding its regulations.
The Republic of Chile believes that the global ratification of this landmark Treaty may not immediately lead to universal disarmament, but it serves as a powerful statement of our collective resolve. The world is weary of living under the shadow of nuclear catastrophe. We regionalize that nuclear warfare poses an existential threat. The Republic of Chile encourages all Member States of the United Nations to sign and ratify the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, promoting a global commitment to nuclear disarmament. Furthermore, all Member States should establish nuclear-weapons-free zones in each region with high tensions, reducing proliferation risks and creating safety zones. | |
| Country: | Chile |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Chile is seriously concerned that the widespread use of chemical
weapons,
which began in World War I, set a devastating precedent. These weapons were extremely
hazardous to anyone who might have the misfortune of inhaling or being in the vicinity of
them. The Republic of Chile notes that this type of weapon was banned by the Geneva
Protocol of 1925, under the auspices of the League of Nations, due to its sheer inhumane
and indiscriminate nature. This ban on chemical weapons has endured to the present day,
with their use outlawed globally and considered a war crime by the international community.
Therefore, Chile voted in favor of UN Resolution 1540 which aimed to end the support of any
non-state actor that would work toward developing, acquiring, manufacturing, possessing,
transporting, transferring, or using nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons and their means
of delivery in April 2004.
The Republic of Chile has been working with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and has enacted law 21250 which in Article 22 (1) prohibits the import, export, development, possession, stockpiling, transfer, and use of biological and toxin weapons in the country. The same law also outlines the procedure for seizing such weapons and the punishment given to those found in violation. The Republic of Chile calls on every Member of the United Nations to join the OPCW and support its efforts to eliminate chemical weapons globally. Additionally, all Members of the UN should provide technical assistance and capacity-building programs to help countries implement and enforce national laws prohibiting chemical and biological weapons as the Republic of Chiles Law 21250. | |
| Country: | China |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Currently, international security is facing a great deal of challenges from various kinds of
security threats, and the differences between parties viewpoints on arms control and non-
proliferation remain a barrier to peace. Disarmament and arms control should remain a
priority, but full participation in the exchange of information, materials, and equipment for
peaceful use between states is an unalienable right.
China was a co-sponsor of the Promoting International Cooperation on Peaceful Uses in the Context of International Security resolution adopted by the 76th and 77th UNGA in order to reaffirm Member States of their obligation and commitment to disarmament, international arms control, and non-proliferation while also protecting a States right to development and will put forth an updated resolution in the 79th UNGA. We support and actively participate in international arms control and non-proliferation and fully believe that a policy of mutual respect, mutual trust, equality, and cooperation between Member States is the key to international security and peace. However, we must not hinder the development of developing nations in the process regarding technology and development gaps between the Global North and South that are being hindered by export control. | |
| Country: | China |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The People's Republic of China has long stood on the principle that weapons of mass
destruction, including chemical weapons, should be completely prohibited. Actively
participating in the negotiations of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), China has
faithfully fulfilled its obligations to the CWC and continues to support the work of the
Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Despite the efforts behind
the CWC, we recognize that there is work yet to be done to fully eliminate and prohibit the
development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons, even now. We stand
strong in the belief that a multilateral solution is needed to continue the work of destroying
chemical weapon stockpiles.
Since the ratification of the CWC in 1997, We have established the National Implementation Office of the CWC, along with municipal level offices as well as created legislation that provides a legal framework that supports the implementation of the CWC in the People's Republic of China. Actively participating in inspections and verification processes, we believe that with renewed commitment, improved verification inspections, and a multilateral effort, chemical weapons and stockpiles may eventually be eliminated. We urge all states to renew their commitment to the Chemical Weapons Convention and take part in talks to further strengthen our global security against chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Columbia believes in a world with peace and prosperity at the forefront
of our minds. All of the conferences, treaties and conventions mean nothing if countries
are not enforcing them within their country. This includes assessing and creating
policies regarding the use of drones, in particular by non-state actors, in an attempt to
ensure peace and prosperity within this century. The unbiased and proper enforcement
of treaties will allow countries to build confidence building measures (CBMs) for the
greater good.
The UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16 is to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. In an effort to work towards achieving this goal, practical disarmament is the first step towards following this goal through 2030. Previous conventions, including but not limited to Certain Conventional Weapons, the Ottawa Treaty, and the Convention on Cluster Munitions have attempted to limit the creation of weapons that cause irreparable harm to civilians. The use of drones by non-state actors causes countries to feel unsteady even within their own boundaries, including our own both for political uncertainty and the possible harm to civilians. Therefore, it is in the best interest of the UN to adopt regulations for the safety of civilians that address the use of drones. We have already seen the damage that non-state actors have within and outside of an official declaration of war. Drones that drop fragmentation grenades are no better than dropping a bomb that contains cluster munitions. New technology causes CBMs to become either a great focus to ensure that all sides feel safe from attack or that those with the new technology feel the ability to conquer new territories for their own good. Although war shows this technology in a negative light, there have been many positives from using this technology. Drones have been used to track migration of animals, construction of large projects and agriculture. Satellites have been used to track weather patterns which have saved millions of lives. | |
| Country: | Colombia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Colombia, unfortunately, has a recent history with chemical weapons and has long been a supporter of the disarmament of chemical weapons as well as destroying any existing stockpiles of chemical weapons. Colombia believes that in order to help prevent the acquisition and use of chemical weapons, there must be more transparency and monitoring of chemicals and materials that can be used to produce chemical weapons or can be used as a chemical weapon. These inspections would help lower the chance of the use of chemical weapons by both non-state and state actors. For states that have the ability to produce them, there must be inspections in place to ensure that nothing that violates international law is produced. With this, more support and funding must be provided to the OPCW so they can pursue their directive. Colombia also acknowledges that there are several chemicals that can be used in both peaceful and offensive ways. An example of a dual-use chemical is hydrogen cyanide, which is a powerful nerve agent but is also used in dyes. With this, transparency is needed, and information needs to be shared between states to prevent the offensive use of a dual-use chemical. | |
| Country: | Costa Rica |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Costa Rica does not believe in the use or possession of weapons of
mass
destruction. Costa Rica's firm and unwavering beliefs on this topic led to our signing of the
Treaty of the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) in January of 2021. This treaty
explains
that Costa Rica will not only never have their own weapons, but also will never host other
States weapons. We do not believe in the testing of WMD or using them as a threat
against
other countries. We believe and have encouraged every state to sign, ratify, or accede the
TPNW. Costa Rica also started the Nuclear Weapons Convention movement, and wants to
see a
world free of nuclear weapons. Costa Rica has and always will be against using WMD for
any
reason and will continue to believe that. Costa Rica calls for a legally binding instrument to
hold
other countries accountable for their actions. This would work alongside other agreements
such as the Weapons Trade Treaty. Costa Rica stands behind the belief that transparency
is key.
In addition, Costa Rica championed and then signed onto the International Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) in June of 2013. This treaty seeks to stymie the illicit trade or transfer of conventional weapons between countries. Stopping the trade of conventional weapons also helps prevent those weapons landing in the hands of the wrong people, reducing the risk of terrorist activities. This treaty covers weapons such as tanks, warships, missiles, and small arms. On the basis of what makes a weapon lethal, we believe that it is based on how the weapon is going to be used, rather than the specific design of the weapon. Gun ownership is a legal and protected right in Costa Rica. At the same time, we guarantee the safety of our citizens through a detailed application process that involves a thorough background check. | |
| Country: | Costa Rica |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Costa Rica is in support of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and use of Chemical Weapons, known as the CWC. The CWC is supported and maintained by the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, known as OPCW, of which Costa Rica is an active member. Since 1997 Costa Rica has made it a part of its foreign policy mission to prevent development, production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons. Costa Rica defines a chemical weapon as a device that is specifically designed to cause death or other harm through toxic properties, one that would release agents classified as toxic as a result of the employment of such munitions and devices, or any equipment specifically designed for use directly in connection with the employment of munitions and devices. Costa Rica is not in favor of transferring chemical weapons to anyone, not to engage in military preparations for the use of chemical weapons, and not to assist, encourage, or induce anyone to engage in any activity prohibited to a State Party under the convention. Finally, Costa Rica has been involved in creating programs regarding what the next steps are after chemical weapons are used and co- facilitated a three-month virtual training for first responders. | |
| Country: | Cuba |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Cold War played a pivotal role in shifting international power dynamics and in its
wake the international community has continued to be divided. Specifically in regards to
nuclear disarmament in which an international consensus has yet to be solidified. While
the international community may still be uncertain, Cuba firmly believes in the complete
elimination of nuclear weapons from all countries and the continued awareness of the
dangers of weapons development. Cuba is a signatory to The United Nations Treaty on
the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, and in conjunction with that we have submitted a
declaration confirming that we do not own, possess, or control nuclear weapons, and
have never done so. We have affirmed our statements towards denuclearization through
our membership with the United Nations Office of Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and
through our regional participation as a member of the G-21. Both of which are working
towards complete disarmament under strict international control. Under the Millennium
Declaration in 2000 the UN Member States reaffirmed their commitment to international
denuclearization. This declaration as well as Goal 16 of The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development, which works towards promoting international peace, have found broad
support throughout the United Nations for denuclearization; however, we have also been
taking increased regional responsibility as well. We have signed The Treaty for the
Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in Latin America and the Caribbean and have helped to
uphold Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace at the Second Summit in
2014.
Cuba stands behind our denuclearization stance, but we also recognize that treaties alone are not enough to bring about the complete eradication of nuclear weapons. Specifically in regards to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) which we signed in 2002. We recognize the importance of the NPT, however, it does not change our long held opinion that the NPT alone is inadequate to bring about large scale international nuclear disarmament. Specifically, we still hold strong concerns regarding the lack of compliance by the major nuclear powers under the NPT. This is why we have continued our membership and support of the UNODA and have worked to maintain the zone of peace within Latin America and the Caribbean. These provide us with practical ways to continue to work towards our ultimate goal of complete international nuclear disarmament. Nuclear weapons are not the only technological warfare device that threatens global security and peace. Instead nuclear disarmament is only a small portion of what is needed to promote global peace. As a result, nuclear disarmament must happen in tandem with the monsterization of other new weapons advancements. Beyond nuclear disarmament Cuba supports the monitoring and regulating of weapons developments, specifically the development of lethal autonomous weapons systems and information and communication technologies (ICTs). We do not possess nor plan to develop any lethal autonomous weapons systems now or in the future. We encourage the enforcement of international human rights law in regards to the development of these weapons systems. We understand that these weapons cannot make complex decisions and so recognize the threat that they pose towards maintaining international peace. In regards to ICTs we recognize our own limitations when it comes to understanding the extent of what ICTs can do. Due to this lack of knowledge we support the Cyber Policy Portal of the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research as a practical step towards maintaining international peace in the face of developing ICTs. While we may not fully understand the capabilities of ICTs, we do understand that they can cause detrimental damage to a nation's infrastructure, national security, social affairs, and economy. As a result, we support the continuation of ICT monitoring and are open to future regulations on ICTs as necessary. Weapons that can cause mass damage to a nation need to be understood and contained for the continued peace and prosperity of the international community. | |
| Country: | Cuba |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The conflict that was the Cold War, saw many different military tactics from many
countries, between artillery, arms, and chemical weapons. The delegation of Cuba has a
history of chemical weapon use in Angola in 1988 under a communist government. We
have worked hard to eliminate our use of chemical weapons and we urge other countries
to do the same.
As the Cuban delegation, we are strong believers in the disarmament of chemical weapons. In January 1993, Cuba was one of the first signatories to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction. Cuba later ratified this prohibition in April 1997. In July 2018, Cuba stated its support for OPCW and reiterated its rejection of the use of chemical weapons in any circumstance. As recently as November of 2023, Cuba held its opinion on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction. Cuba, a member of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), supported these ideals by calling for a ceasefire within Gaza. The use of white phosphorus by Israel in the region has been included in the deaths of more than 25,000 Palestinians. The delegation of Cuba would like to further its support in the disarmament of chemical weapons by any actor in any circumstance. The recent Russian and Ukrainian conflict has seen the use of chemical weapons for riot control such as tear gas and choking agents. These chemical weapons are hard to control in large use and inhumane. With this, we would propose legislation or laws to ban any future creation, stockpiling, or use of chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Czechia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The best preventative measures in order to ensure peace and security for the whole
of
the
United Nations is through collective disarmament. Since the rise of the Nuclear Age the
need
for
cooperation has become more crucial than ever as unregulated usage of weapons
continuously
becomes more difficult to manage. In order for disarmament to be successful there must
be
cooperation amongst more states, as states who have abstained from treaties against
small
weapon disarmament create humanitarian risks not just for other states, but their own as
well,
as excessively hostile weapons such as cluster munitions and landmines overreach what
is
to be
considered proper defense. In addition to Member States abstaining, treaties in regards to
the
disarmament of small weapons are limited as well. As technology advances at rates not
seen
since the industrial era there needs to be heavy moderation of new technology being used
in
combat.
There has been much progress in regards to disarmament in the United Nations over the past several decades one of which being the United Nations Office of Disarmament affairs established in 1998 and has been essential through the process of disarmament. They have been responsible for maintaining many treaties the state of Czechia has signed such as, the Ottawa convention in 1999, which was intended to facilitate the destruction of anti- personnel mines, the Convention on Cluster Munitions in 2011, and the 1975 Convention of Biological Weapons. One of the biggest treaties in terms of goals has been the Arms Trade Treaty which has the goal of ensuring arms used by States do not fall into the hands of non state armed groups. The success on these treaties varies however more is needed to ensure global security. Many of these treaties have not been effective in achieving their end goal, as the Arms Trade Treaty cannot hold up without total cooperation. Czechia has contributed its part into upholding these treaties however it is not enough and the state urges the rest of the United Nations to uphold these treaties, it is not enough to get agreement through signing these treaties. Another proposition that Czechia puts forth is creating surveillance on technology such as drones and AI. This is a new frontier the world is entering and if the states in the United Nations are not careful there could be unexpected and drastic repercussions that follow. | |
| Country: | Czechia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Since World War I, the creation and implementation of chemical weapons has plagued
countries
globally due to its capability to inflict mass fatalities. While the utilization of chemical
weapons on
an extensive scale has diminished in recent years, it doesn't negate its ability to do so or
shroud
the information of considerable stockpiles in numerous countries. Globally, twelve nations
have
confirmed production facilities for chemical weapons, while some countries, North Korea
and
Syria, have possession of chemical weapons. As the First Committee it is our duty to
address
concerns regarding the utilization, development, and containment of chemical weapons,
under
which countries can be held responsible in the event of a chemical warfare.
One of the greatest achievements in weapon disarmament has been the Chemical Weapons Convention, with all but four States having signed and ratified it. Although banning the Geneva Protocol has banned the use of chemical weapons, it was insufficient to ensure the disarmament of said weapons. After the events of World War II, it is apparent the harm that can unfold by way of chemical weapons, hence the need for the Chemical Weapons Convention. Czechia has signed for this convention advocating against the usage and creation of chemical weapons. The state has been a factor in developing protections against the application and creation of said weapons by creating antidotes and providing anti-chemical warfare troops to Jordan in 2021 to ensure limited use of chemical weapons. As previously mentioned, Czechia disapproves of the creation, utilization, and stockpiling of chemical weapons. We propose more international transparency between countries, in order to be aware of possible chemical threats and respond accordingly. Furthermore, we advocate for strengthening and the enforcement of chemical-related treaties such as the CWC. Countries such as Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have yet to sign the CWC. With these issues established, the First Committee needs to take action to protect the general welfare of the States. | |
| Country: | Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) stands in support of international initiatives aimed at promoting disarmament and stopping the spread of weapons, particularly in areas like ours that are prone to war. Armed conflict has weakened peace attempts and prolonged bloodshed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for decades. The illicit trade in small arms and light weapons drives it. To improve weapons control measures, especially through the implementation of the Weapons Trade Treaty (ATT), international collaboration is crucial. We can lessen the flow of illicit weapons into conflict areas by implementing stronger laws governing the global arms trade, with an emphasis on the responsibility of arms suppliers and manufacturers. Additionally, DR Congo demands more international collaboration in disarmament initiatives, especially in the form of technical aid and capacity-building for underdeveloped countries. Many governments in crisis areas lack the infrastructure and resources necessary to track weapons, defend their borders, and stop illegal arms trafficking. These countries must receive ongoing financial and technical assistance from the UN and its Member States to improve their weapons control policies. DR Congo supports stricter international oversight procedures and penalties for nations or individuals that break arms control agreements or aid in the illicit arms trade. DR Congo additionally stresses the necessity of focusing on the financial networks that support illicit arms trafficking and give non-state armed groups additional influence. Dismantling the political and economic systems that support the spread of weapons is part of an extensive plan for disarmament. To lower the likelihood of war recurrence, we also urge attention to be paid to post-conflict disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) initiatives that assist ex- combatants in reintegrating into society. DR Congo is dedicated to international efforts for disarmament and international security since it is a country severely impacted by the destabilizing impacts of illicit weapons. | |
| Country: | Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) is dedicated to the global objective of a world free of chemical weapons and fully supports the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). DR Congo, a country that has seen prolonged conflict and instability, is aware of the catastrophic potential of WMDs and strongly opposes the creation, acquisition, or application of chemical weapons. Concerning their indiscriminate, lethal, and long-lasting consequences, chemical weapons represent a special threat to mankind. According to DR Congo, the continuous use of these weapons breaches basic humanitarian norms and endangers global peace and security. We implore the international community to step up efforts to implement the CWC fully and to hold violators of this important agreement responsible. To guarantee the elimination of current chemical weapon stocks, DR Congo promotes close collaboration with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Since developing countries frequently lack the means to safeguard borders and stop the trafficking of chemical weapons, we call on the OPCW and the UN to collaborate in 3 order to offer them financial and technical assistance. To do this, monitoring mechanisms and regular inspections are essential since they guarantee a Member State's compliance and confidence. DR Congo highlights the significance of international cooperation on intelligence-sharing and border control to reduce the possibility that chemical weapons may end up in the hands of non- state actors. In conflict areas where non-state actors can try to take advantage of weapons trafficking, such safeguards might be vital. Additionally, demand that international response capabilities be strengthened, including the availability of medical professionals with the necessary training to react rapidly to chemical accidents. Lastly, DR Congo supports educational initiatives to raise awareness of the dangers of chemical weapons in conflict-affected areas. Increasing awareness among the local populace can help disarmament objectives and improve preventative measures. DR Congo is prepared to collaborate with the international community to eradicate chemical weapons and create a safer world as a dedicated member of the CWC. | |
| Country: | Denmark |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| We remain cognizant of the adverse effects of the ongoing wars and rising conflicts around the
world. In addition to attacks on civilians and gender-based violence, for the past decade, there
has been annual increase in World Military Expenditure, nearing 2.4 trillion dollars in 2024. For
the first time since 2009, military expenditure went up in all five of the geopolitical regions. The
unprecedented rise in military spending is a direct response to the global deterioration in
peace and security and an increasingly volatile geopolitical and security landscape all over the
world.
We strongly condemn attacks on civilians, and particularly gender-based violence targeted at women in times of conflict and war. We recognize the need for women's participation in all matters of national peace and security, as well as the need to protect women and girls from gender-based violence in relation to war and violence. We believe treaties such as United Nations Resolution 1325- on women, peace and security (2000) and the United Nations Women Peace and Security agenda to be of utmost importance. Hence, we join forces with other nations to work preventively against gender-based violence in times of conflict and war. We affirm the connection between the disarmament of weapons and development of nations and therefore uphold the UN efforts towards disarmament and arms control as a means to promote development. We believe that current expenditure on wars and conflicts is an opportunity cost and could be redirected as an investment in nonmilitary public infrastructure such as education, health, infrastructure, and economic growth. We remain committed to contributing towards the United Nations Special Fund for Global Development. | |
| Country: | Denmark |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Denmark is unwavering in its commitment to the principles and objectives of the
Convention
on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical
Weapons
and on Their Destruction. It is a shared aspiration among nations and the international
community to achieve global peace, free from the specter of military conflict. Unfortunately,
the
current reality is marked by ongoing strife in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, alongside
the
persistent threat of chemical weapons an unsettling scenario that contrasts sharply with
our
aspirations for peace. However, as long as military warfare exists, Denmark firmly believes
that
chemical weapons have no place in armed warfare. These weapons inflict indiscriminate
suffering, resulting in severe injuries, long-term health consequences, and death for both
combatants and civilians alike.
Since 1997, Denmark has been a proactive supporter of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), contributing funds and resources to their initiatives, assisting victims of chemical weapons, and raising awareness about the humanitarian impacts of their use. We will continue to back the OPCW by actively participating in international forums and negotiations focused on disarmament and non-proliferation, while advocating for stronger norms against chemical weapons. We call for universal adherence to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and urge all States to ratify and implement the treaty. We also advocate for strengthened cooperation among law enforcement and intelligence agencies to effectively address threats posed by non-state actors and terrorist groups. | |
| Country: | Djibouti |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Djibouti is an active participant in the United Nations First Committee and recognizes the danger of weapons of mass destruction and advocates for the nuclear disarmament of weapons as pursuant to Articles 1, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 16 in the United Nations Charter. Djibouti is a signatory to Resolutions 73/50, the general and complete disarmament of nuclear, chemical, biological and other weapons of mass destruction, and 73/29, conclusion of effective international arrangements to assure non-nuclear-weapon States against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons, along with the Universal Declaration on the Achievement of a Nuclear-Weapon-Free-World. The country will maintain its membership in the African Union, the Non-Aligned Movement, Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League along with its role in the United Nations to promote security in Africa and the world. The Republic of Djibouti understands the importance of maintaining security for shipping vessels going through the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. Djibouti, understanding the importance of the trade routes through the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, further seeks to minimize the impact of piracy in the region. In its place on the Horn of Africa, Djibouti seeks to maintain peace in neighboring countries and strengthen relationships with global powers to maintain stability. For the sake of peace, Djibouti will seek to further its support for peacekeeping operations for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID). The country also will further its support of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). | |
| Country: | Djibouti |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Given the convergence of military powers and their bases from the countries Spain, Italy, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Japan, The United States of America, and the People's Republic of China, the Republic of Djibouti strongly affirms their support within the implementation of the convention on the prohibition of the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons and their destruction. With today's geopolitics, the lease agreement that these first-world nations have with the Republic of Djibouti puts us at greater risk of direct combat between nations. Furthermore, because of the geographic location of the country of Djibouti, near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the oil-rich Arabian Peninsula, and the strategic shipping lane of the Gulf of Aden, President Ismael Omar Guellah and his constituents strongly support the CWC (Chemical Weapons Conventions). With the Republic of Djibouti's involvement within the Arab League, we strongly believe in the sovereignty of our member nations and peoples. With the risk of a country producing, stockpiling, or using a chemical weapon, the Republic of Djibouti cannot ensure safety. | |
| Country: | Ecuador |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Proliferation and the accumulation of conventional weapons pose a direct threat
to
international peace and security. The Republic of Ecuador believes in promoting
disarmament
and non-proliferation. Disarmament involves reducing or eliminating weapons, arms
control
measures, and ensuring that nations adhere to treaties that promote peace and security.
Weapons of mass destruction can fuel violence, hinder peaceful efforts, and amplify
conflict.
Ecuador recognizes the spread of firearms can destabilize regions and lead to further
conflicts.
The country strives for the consolidation of peace and security through practical
measures,
such as collection, control, and disposal of arms. By supporting disarmament, Ecuador
aims to
enhance both national and international security, contributing to a safer global
environment.
Notably, the Republic of Ecuador has been a steadfast advocate for global disarmament. The country has consistently supported initiatives that aim to reduce the proliferation of weapons and promote security and peace. Ecuador endorsed the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), showcasing the country's commitment to the elimination of nuclear weapons. Ecuador fully supports the treaty's implementation and advocates for other states to join the TPNW. Ecuador ratified the Treaty of Tlatelolco, which established a nuclear-free zone in Latin America and the Caribbean. The Treaty of Tlatelolco prohibits nuclear weapons by any means within the region. Ecuador ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Theory (CNTBT) in 2001. The country's ratification demonstrated its commitment to detecting nuclear explosions globally and furthermore ensuring peace and security. Ecuador signed and ratified the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), aiming to regulate conventional arms in international trade. Through the ratification of the treaties, the country can be seen supporting and prioritizing non-proliferation, disarmament, and ensuring peace and security internationally. Ecuador will continue supporting policies and initiatives that prohibit nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons to preserve peace and security. | |
| Country: | Ecuador |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Ecuador firmly believes in the importance of regional
cooperation in
ensuring
the successful implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) across Latin
America. Ecuador advocates for a regional approach that strengthens the disarmament
agenda
and prevents the development, stockpiling, or use of chemical weapons. Ecuador has
continuously worked alongside other Latin American nations to create a cohesive plan for
chemical weapons disarmament. Our commitment includes encouraging neighboring
countries
to strengthen compliance with the CWC's obligations. Ecuador's diplomatic efforts have
played
a critical role in encouraging our neighbors to comply with the CWC. Through initiatives
that
foster trust, transparency, and cooperation, we have developed partnerships which
improve
the oversight of hazardous chemical substances. Ecuador actively promotes the
establishment
of regional agreements that address the safe management and destruction of chemical
weapons stockpiles. Ecuador aims to eliminate the threat posed by chemical weapons not
just
in Ecuador, but across Latin America. Ecuador emphasizes the need for training
workshops to
ensure the regions readiness to manage any disarmament challenges.
Ecuador supports the goal of full regional adherence to the CWC, recognizing that a chemical weapons-free Latin America is essential for broader global security. Through diplomatic channels, we have worked with regional entities and directly with states to encourage adherence and implementation of the CWC. We stress the importance of cooperation between governments in South America, utilizing frameworks within the OAS and UNLIREC to support CWC compliance and transparency. Ecuador is particularly focused on fostering collaboration in disarmament efforts by promoting educational initiatives and regional technical assistance programs. Ecuadors efforts are aimed at ensuring Latin America remains a leader in disarmament diplomacy, advocating for peace and security through the destruction of chemical weapons stockpiles in alignment with international law. | |
| Country: | Ethiopia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| I. Consolidation of Peace through Practical Disarmament Measures
The delegation of Ethiopia champions the critical importance of practical
and comprehensive
disarmament measures to ensure long-term peace and stability. The
proliferation of small
arms and light weapons (SALW) remains a salient driver of conflict, hindering
development
efforts, and threatening the safety of civil society. Having faced its conflicts
domestically and
worked towards peace, Ethiopia recognizes the need to implement effective
disarmament
policies to build a secure environment conducive to Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs).
Ethiopia firmly believes that practical disarmament measures, such as collecting and destroying SALWs, are essential for furthering peacebuilding initiatives. Uncontrolled proliferation of small arms contributes to an atmosphere of insecurity, organized crime, and violence. To address this specific issue, Ethiopia has elevated policies and laws aiming to disarm former combatants. Ethiopia has excelled in this reintegration process, facilitating the difficult transition into civilian life that many contemporaries have found exceedingly difficult. The Pretorian Agreement has granted credibility to commitment, which successfully resolved a two-year conflict that took the lives of over half a million people. Furthermore, the demilitarization and reintegration of combatants is a clear example of Ethiopiaâs commitment to a cohesive disarmament philosophy and how regional stability can be pursued comprehensively. Additionally, Ethiopia has been cooperating regionally with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to battle cross-border violence and arms trafficking in the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia is also dedicated to strengthening law enforcement to manage illegal weapon smuggling and directing public awareness campaigns about the gravity and harm of armed conflicts. We have seen, we have experienced, and we have learned. After seeing what has been happening globally, Ethiopia refuses to act complacently when facing the threat of violence and instability. These disciplined, successful efforts aim to create a peaceful society and demand the support of other nations to promote regional harmony. | |
| Country: | Ethiopia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| II. Addressing the Continued Threat of Chemical Warfare
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) lays out the necessary groundwork to combat the
immense harm that chemical warfare can generate. But it is not enough. With conflicts
raging around the world, chemical weapons have a newfound relevance on battlefields
around the world. Despite the best efforts of the international community to enforce the
CWC, those efforts are not enough as we continue to see the promulgation of this immoral
and illegal tactic in conflict zones such as Ukraine, Syria, and Lebanon.
The delegation of Ethiopia fully supports the objectives of the CWC and stands committed to its principles, recognizing the severe humanitarian and environmental consequences of chemical weapons. Having ratified the CWC in 1996, Ethiopia adheres to the global norm against the development, production and use of chemical weapons under any circumstances. As a country without chemical weapon stockpiles, Ethiopia calls on all states to adopt similar measures to ensure strict compliance with the CWC. Ethiopia stresses the urgency of properly addressing this issue through robust and effective verification measures under the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons. Improved transparency, enhanced inspections and stricter enforcement of guidelines are essential to hold states accountable. This includes knowledge-sharing and training initiatives. However, the voices of non-state actors in this conversation are growing louder. Acquisition of chemical weapons by terrorist or dissident groups is a growing concern, even within Ethiopia. Ethiopia calls for heightened international collaboration to strengthen border security and to regulate precursor chemicals. Member states must adopt rigorous controls to prevent the diversion of materials that could be used for inhumane ends. Furthermore, Ethiopia advocates the continuation and strengthening of regional cooperation through bodies such as the African Union to bolster disarmament and ensure a world free from weapons of mass destruction. Ethiopia is prepared to continue to work closely with the international community to uphold and reinforce the CWC, advocating for diplomatic engagement and, when necessary, strict punitive measures against violators. It is only by unwavering and collective action that we can achieve the complete eradication of chemical weapons and secure lasting global peace and security. | |
| Country: | Finland |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| In order to establish a safer and more peaceful world, Finland has taken measures to ensure this, not only for its own citizens but for the citizens of the world. Finland has strong stances against the possession of chemical weapons, biological weapons, WMDs, ballistic missiles, and mines. Finland has also previously been involved in the banning of nuclear weapons tests. Finland has worked to enact legislation to restrict possession and undergo disarmament of these dangerous weapons. Weapons that take effect indiscriminately, should not be allowed in conflicts because they cause unnecessary deaths to civilians. As we have seen the world shift as new conflicts and wars arise, we will make those wars affect the least amount of people possible. Our stances on weapons that indiscriminately target combatants and noncombatants, are firm and will not change. We are committed to stopping the spread of these dangerous weapons and we are committed to destroying the ones already in circulation. However, as there is no feasible alternative to cluster munitions, we have not signed the Oslo Convention which would make a categorical ban on cluster munitions. While we agree with the humanitarian sentiment of the convention, we do not support a categorical ban. Finland also seeks to control and regulate arms trading on an international level, as seen by the Arms Trade Treaty that Finland signed. We also believe in the restriction of small arms possession and the elimination of illegal arms dealing. We are committed to stopping any illegal weapons deals and/or possession of illegal weaponry. | |
| Country: | Finland |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| As the year progresses to its end, we see ourselves approaching a more destabilized world. We watch as the world experiences its greatest number of armed conflicts since World War II, especially as North Korea joins Russia's violent incursion into Ukraine, and as the conflict in Gaza continues. We see as the flow of illegal weapons into Haiti and Yemen continuously arms the parties wreaking havoc on their nations. We stand in a world where, according to our Secretary-General, the risk of nuclear war is at its highest point in decades, as tension grips the world at a strength not seen since the Cold War. In this period of instability, Finland believes that it is of utmost importance, as well as within the self-interest of every member nation of this great organization, that the UN keeps International Security, especially nuclear disarmament, at the forefront of its concerns. As such, Finland remains committed to the UN's vision of a more sustainable, just, and peaceful global order for all peoples and nations, as put by the President of this 79th session of the General Assembly. We believe we have made great strides in this direction, especially with the Security Council reforms outlined in The Pact for the Future adopted this September by the UN. In our commitment, we ask for the continued support of the IAEA. We cannot increase international security without first increasing the world's nuclear security, and Finland believes the efforts of the IAEA to be essential to that, as shown by our prior resolution with Canada in support of the IAEA during their 68th General Conference. We also ask for continued support of the UN's PoA, and we will continue to campaign for strengthening OSCE Regulations, as well as urge all UN nations to ratify the Arms Trade Treaty. | |
| Country: | France |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The international security context is seriously deteriorating, as seen by the persistence of conflicts and wars, the worsening of the terrorist threat, and more cross-border trafficking. These concerning developments are all reasons to renew our joint commitment to strengthening the universality, respect and effectiveness of our disarmament and conventional arms control mechanisms. The international system that emerged after the Cold War is giving way to a multipolar world that is undergoing significant changes. Instability and unpredictability are the dominant features of the world today. A growing number of established as well as emerging powers have growing nuclear arsenals and display their military might, leading to power politics. Such assertiveness also fuels competition regarding access to resources and control of physical and virtual strategic areas, including oceans, airspace, outer space and cyberspace. Considering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, we must not lose sight of the fact that conventional weapons still pose a serious threat for all regions of the world.
The French Republic believes that international actions on conventional weapons should be a series of specific, tailored and practical measures whose primary objective must be to enhance international security, while taking into account the security concerns of all Member States. Current issues such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) are also dealt with within the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW). These weapons, which are owned and utilized by non-state actors, constitute a worldwide threat. Therefore, it is crucial that the world community is involved in this issue. At the Ottawa and Oslo Conventions, France is preparing to become even more involved. At the Oslo Convention, France joined the Committee on the General Status and Operation of the Convention. With regard to the Ottawa Convention, France is now a member of the thematic committee in charge of the implementation of Article 5. Beyond that, it is our collective responsibility to continue to advocate for a high level of ambition, by continuing to push for the universalization of the Oslo Convention banning cluster munitions, as well as the Ottawa Convention banning anti-personnel mines. | |
| Country: | France |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The use of chemicals as weapons of war began at the city of Ypres in
Belgium (Franceâs close ally) on April 22, 1915, during the First World War,
with the first large-scale attack using chlorine gas. In total, chemical
weapons killed 90,000 people worldwide between 1914 and 1918. Moreover,
the sarin gas attack in the Tokyo subway in 1995 also demonstrated that
non-state actors are capable of using chemical weapons against innocent
civilians. The French Republic would like to strongly reiterate that the use of
chemical weapons is unacceptable wherever, whenever and by whomsoever
committed, and under whatever circumstances. France has long been
engaged in the fight against chemical weapons and plans to continue over
the long term. It is the depositary of the 1925 Protocol on the Prohibition of
the Use in War of Chemical and Bacteriological Weapons. It participated in
the relaunch of the negotiations of the Conference on Disarmament in 1989,
which led to the signing of the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical
Weapons (CWC) on January 15, 1993, in Paris. Even though four States are
yet to ratify the Convention, France wishes for it to be implemented globally
because too few State Parties have fully incorporated the provisions of the
CWC into their national laws. France ratified the Convention in 1995 and fully
complies with its commitments. For example, France has incorporated the
CWC into its legislation. France has allowed the Organisation for the
Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to conduct twelve inspections on
French territory every year. It has implemented the SECOIA Programme in
2016 to destroy the approximately 20 tonnes of chemical munitions from the
First World War that are discovered every year in France. France also plays
an active role in the Organisation in monitoring industrial matters, protection
and assistance measure, and economic and technological development of
peaceful uses of chemistry. France is determined to invest in the future of
the OPCW, as its expertise is essential in preventing the re-emergence of the
use of chemical weapons, once the destruction of stockpiles are reported
and completed.
The French Republic would like to request that all Member States respect their non-proliferation international obligations because the preservation of international peace, security and stability is at stake. We need to remain resolute in the face of the threat posed by the spread of biological, chemical, and nuclear weapons. It is up to us all to oppose the devaluation of the proliferation crises and the perceived impunity that some States enjoy. | |
| Country: | Georgia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Since gaining its independence from the Soviet Union and becoming an independent country, Georgia has been very supportive of disarmament and nuclear deterrence. We do not produce, nor do we possess, any nuclear weapons. According to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, Georgia ranks 14th in the world when it comes to nuclear safety. This is primarily due to the number of international treaties regarding nuclear deterrence that we have signed. These include the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Materials (CPPNM), the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT), the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. In the past, we have also collaborated with the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on mine clearing as well as the disposal of munitions within the country.It is important to note, however, that some of our closest and most powerful allies the United States, Turkey, and China all possess nuclear weapons. This has influenced our decision to vote against several resolutions relating to nuclear disarmament, such as the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use of Nuclear Weapons and the Nuclear Disarmament resolution proposed in 2023. When it comes to securing international security, Georgia is primarily concerned with issues stemming from Russian occupation in Abkhazia, South Ossetia, and other Georgian territories. These conflicts with Russia have caused much death, as well as a significant number of refugees and internally displaced people. Georgia points to this occupation as one of the hurdles to achieving nuclear disarmament. | |
| Country: | Georgia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Georgian delegation, keeping with its long standing positions and obligations, fully supports the continued implementation of the Convention, and the duty of the Georgian state in fulfilling all responsibilities described in previous resolutions and agreements made regarding the destruction of chemical weapons to benefit a safe and secure future. Per H.E. Mr. David Bakradze, Permanent Representative of Georgia on October 10, 2022, Georgia has always been a staunch supporter of and adherent to international disarmament and nonproliferation regimes. The Georgian delegation will not falter in its belief in ensuring disarmament and nonproliferation goals are met, whether they regard weapons which are chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear in nature. Georgia remains steadfast in support of the Chemical Weapons Convention, and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, on both of which Georgia was an initial signatory. Per the Georgian delegations position, it is committed to furthering efforts to enhance and enforce all measures regarding the nonproliferation of Chemical Weapons and their destruction, in order to maintain peace and bolster security on an international scale. | |
| Country: | Germany |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Federal Republic of Germany is a staunch supporter of achieving peace through practical disarmament. Obtaining peace can only be reached through the implementation of specific solutions regarding limits to conventional, nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons. As a signatory of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), the Federal Republic of Germany maintains the importance of abiding by such agreements. With the enactment of the War Weapons Control Act (KrWaffKontrG), has strived to attain peace and safety for the citizens of the Republic of Germany. Additionally, this act has contributed to controlling the proliferation of weapons of war. Through proper limitations as seen in Stockholm Initiative and resolution A/C.1/78/L.56, disarmament can help the world to move one step closer to total peace. The Federal Republic of Germany will continue to lead as well as work to pursue absolute peace through practical disarmament. | |
| Country: | Germany |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Federal Republic of Germany believes that the use of Chemical Weapons is repugnant and unnecessary. The Federal Republic of Germany witnessed first hand the chaos and destruction of Chemical Weapons and as such sees them as a threat against national security. As a proud signatory passing its 30th anniversary of signing, the Federal Republic of Germany wholly supports universal implementation of the convention, and fully supports The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). The Chemicals Prohibition Ordinance (ChemVerbotsV), is a German law that regulates the distribution of hazardous chemicals in order to prevent the creation of chemical weapons and ensure safety measures around the hazardous material. The Federal Republic of Germany was pleased to announce in 2023 that all known German stockpiles of chemical weapons had been disposed of. The disposal was overseen by and approved by the OPCW. Alongside this, 365 million euros have been contributed to the destruction of chemical weapons in several countries around the world. The proper removal and destruction of all chemical weapons is a major advance towards a safe world. | |
| Country: | Ghana |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Ghana has long been a staunch advocate for all forms of disarmament,
including backing UN measures to prohibit the use of nuclear weapons with
the goal of full nuclear disarmament 1. Ghana sadly recognizes, however,
that ambitious disarmament measures may not be realistic given the
interests of larger powers. We also recognize the danger of new weapons
such as drones, which are easy to produce and deploy and have
(unfortunately) proven their effectiveness on the battlefield. We would like to
encourage states to take measures to oversee and reduce the production
and use of such weapons, but again we do not anticipate meaningful
progress at this time.
It is, to be honest, easy to be discouraged on this issue, and also easy to succumb to arguments that blame larger powers for selling weapons that help fuel conflicts world-wide. Ghana, however, would like to continue to work with like-minded countries on disarmament issues and like to focus on some practical measures that could produce some positive effects. Ghana has helped spearhead the SALIENT project with the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs and the United Nations Development Programme to combat armed violence and small arms trafficking 2. In particular, we are focusing on traffic in small arms and working on enhanced border security (including use of metal detectors), cooperation through use of cross-border offices with neighboring states, training of personnel, and improvements in surveillance 3. These efforts align with the Arms Trade Treaty and not only prevent the entry of illicit arms but also contribute to a broader regional stability. We believe that better training, equipment, and bilateral and regional cooperation can help reduce the spread of weapons. | |
| Country: | Ghana |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| As our delegation has stressed repeatedly at prior UN meetings,
Ghana wholeheartedly
supports the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention and we have lent our
unconditional
support to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
(OPCW) and all other
international bodies dedicated to removing this grotesque form of warfare 1.
We are aware
that not all states have abided by this convention, and we express our
support for use of the
challenge inspection in the convention in order to ensure compliance and
that the results of
all such inspections by reported to both the UNSC and First Committee. We
call on all states
who have not yet acceded to the Convention to do so. We also support
efforts to boost the
technical capacity and professionalization of the OPCW.
Ghana has implemented a number of measures to ensure the international community that we are chemical weapons-free. We would encourage the UN to press member states to pass relevant legislation and create the necessary agencies to ensure that they remain in compliance with the convention. In particular, we would like to work toward greater regulatory controls and reporting on the production and trade of chemicals that can be used for such weapons. We are also highly aware and concerned about non-state actors acquiring such weapons and seek international consensus that denying such weapons to these actors become a priority. We would also like to see measures within states militaries to affirm and advance norms against chemical weapons development and use. We are also open to measures that would involve private corporations more closely to the Convention so the international community can be assured that such weapons are not being produced anywhere in the world. | |
| Country: | Greece |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Greece is dedicated to the principles of disarmament and international security, having been a founding member of both NATO and the European Union (EU), in addition to its participation in numerous disarmament and non-proliferation treaties. The country has actively engaged in disarmament agreements and diplomatic initiatives. Notably, in 1981, Greece became a signatory to the Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons, also referred to as the Convention on Conventional Weapons (CCW). This convention prohibits or restricts the use of specific categories of weapons and non-lethal methods that are considered to cause unnecessary suffering or indiscriminate harm. The ratification of the CCW by Greece underscores its adherence to the principles of international humanitarian law, which seeks to minimize harm and suffering during armed conflicts. By complying with the provisions of the CCW, Greece plays a significant role in fostering a more humane and equitable international security landscape. Furthermore, Greece formally acceded to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in 1995, thereby becoming a party to this international agreement aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Additionally, Greece is a member of the Nuclear Weapons Free Zone in the Middle East, demonstrating its commitment to non-proliferation efforts in the region. | |
| Country: | Greece |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| In 2017, Greece endorsed the Nuclear Weapons Ban Treaty, which it subsequently ratified in 2021, marking a significant milestone in its disarmament efforts. This treaty prohibits the development, production, testing, possession, transfer, and use of nuclear weapons. Greece has consistently supported the goals of the Nuclear Weapons Ban Treaty, actively advocating for the disarmament of nuclear-armed states and calling for the elimination of nuclear arsenals. Greece expressed concerns regarding the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), stating that it "does not provide the necessary provisions for an incremental withdrawal of nuclear weapons, nor does it offer a verifiable mechanism to oversee such an endeavor, boycotting negotiations with the TPNW. Greece holds a notable position within the United Nations peacekeeping operations, securing the 61st rank in terms of the largest contributors of uniformed personnel. Presently, Greece has contributed 108 peacekeepers, inclusive of 20 female personnel, to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). These personnel are stationed aboard the frigate 'Adrias' as part of UNIFIL's Maritime Task Force (MTF). Furthermore, Greece is among the 15 nations that have contributed to the MTF since its inception in 2006. The MTF was established following a request from the Government of Lebanon with the objective of monitoring coastal waters and thwarting the unauthorized entry of arms by sea into Lebanon. In conclusion, Greece actively participates in United Nations peacekeeping efforts and has significantly contributed to the MTF through the deployment of 108 peacekeepers aboard the frigate 'Adrias'. | |
| Country: | Guatemala |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Central and North America have been on the forefront in the fight against the global production and distribution epidemic and network, of illicit narcotics and small arms trafficking by organized crime. Each nation that has been plagued by this social and personal disease, has attempted to minimize and eliminate the ability of these groups to traffic these black-market items. As a regional effort going back as far as the 1970s, the United States and Central American countries have provided joint resources to combat the manufacturing and sale of firearms and narcotics. There are varying degrees of success each nation has achieved over the last 50 years, but nation has found a plan that has worked to eliminate the problem. In the interest of cooperation to limit the trafficking of firearms and narcotics to the greatest degree possible, U.N. Peacekeepers should be deployed in joint effort with the government of Guatemala to stop trafficking through Guatemala. Guatemala is a geographic bottleneck between the production of narcotics by cartels and the sale for distribution to the cartels in northern Mexico, the southern United States, and Canada thus creating a unique opportunity to find the traffickers in a much more efficient manner by utilizing the enforcement in a condensed area. The peacekeeping unit will be deployed exclusively for the apprehension and interdiction of traffickers and contraband, respectively. In response to the strict enforcement of the trafficking laws on land, the major cartels will no doubt turn to the freshwater avenues and ocean to move contraband. In the interest of cooperation, the United States and other nations who export narcotics in the western hemisphere, who have a navy, would contribute to the security of the oceans and waterways. The transport of the contraband are generally small craft, since there would be strict enforcement of drug and firearm laws on land and thus the ports. Small naval vessels could maintain the integrity of the coastal water from 50 nautical miles south of the southernmost signatory country and 50 nautical miles north of the northern most. | |
| Country: | Guatemala |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| 1. Giving more urgency to the compliance of the Convention
Discuss and remind the signing members of the Convention, how important is to promote this Convention and the compliance of all the compromises agreed on it. Guatemala promotes the consulting and review of scientists and experts on the topic of chemical weapons, as well as the promotion of their ideas, to raise awareness of the urgency of this matter. We also call the dialogue between signing members to promote the cooperation on the destruction of Chemical Weapons. 2. Persuade the members of the United Nations that arent parties of the Convention, to sign and ratify it as soon as possible It is necessary to ensure that all the countries agree on stop the development, production and stockpiling of chemical weapons, specifically for preventing its use and the devastating consequences of it, at the same time that all of them destroy the existent ones. We encourage the dialogue and negotiation with the 4 Countries that havent sign and ratify in the Convention, to convince them of doing it. Guatemala, as a country reaffirms its compromise to seek world peace through the stopping of the proliferation of mass destruction armament and the use of more diplomatic ways. We really encourage all the members of the Committee to support our efforts for getting rid of Chemical Weapons and prevent possible catastrophes that may occur because of them, especially now that we are close to reaching an agreement between all Countries, on this matter. | |
| Country: | Guyana |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The importance of disarmament in maintaining peace and protecting civilian lives cannot be overstated. The proliferation of weapons fuels conflict and violence, threatening the stability of nations and the safety of people around the world. Only through multilateral cooperation can peace be achieved. Guyana recognizes this necessity and stands committed to supporting global efforts towards disarmament. Guyana has ratified numerous UN treaties, including the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. By joining this treaty, Guyana affirms its commitment to a nuclear-free world and sets an example for other nations in Latin America and the Caribbean. As a member of CARICOM, Guyana has consistently advocated for peace initiatives in the region. Through diplomatic channels and collaborative efforts, we work to mediate conflicts and promote regional disarmament agreements that contribute to a safer Latin America. Guyana advocates for tougher sanctions against countries that violate disarmament treaties. These sanctions should be enforced multilaterally to prevent aggressor nations from finding alternative trading partners. Additionally, Guyana urges the establishment of regional programs that focus on disarmament and the destruction of illegal weapons caches. Such programs should be collaborative initiatives that involve shared intelligence, joint training programs, and coordinated efforts to dismantle arms smuggling networks across borders. | |
| Country: | Guyana |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Chemical Weapons are an existential threat for humanity. As such, the continued implementation of UN resolution 72/43 is required by this body which has been reaffirmed by UN resolution 76/58 and Security Council Resolution 1540 must be done. The United Nations (UN) and the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) have been active in addressing this problem in the past by fostering treaties against Chemical Weapons such as the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and monitoring producers of chemical weapons through the OPCW. Guyana has supported the work that has been done in the past through OPCW and the CWC which was ratified in September 1997. Guyana has taken steps domestically to address this issue by passing the Chemical Weapons Convention treaty. The efforts by the international community to address the issue of Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons have been successful through the monitoring of transfers of chemicals through the OPCW, the prevention of chemicals used for non-prohibited purposes by terrorists, and verification of the usage of chemicals for purposes that are not prohibited by the convention through the OPCW. Despite these efforts, more needs to be done. This is because some countries still have and have used chemical weapons. Guyana recommends that the following steps be taken to address this problem: First, continued condemnation on the proliferation and usage of chemical weapons. Second, harsher sanctions on countries that proliferate and use chemical weapons. As such, the Co-Operative Republic of Guyana reaffirms its commitment to the CWC and OPCW and firmly condemns the usage and proliferation of chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Haiti |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Currently under an arms embargo due to high levels of gang violence and criminal activity, and with homicides doubling since 2019, the Republic of Haiti is highly invested in addressing the consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures. The international community has long valued peaceful and inclusive societies, highlighted in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. SDG 16 Target 16.4 calls for a reduction in illicit arms flows in order to combat injustice and abuse. The issue of the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons remains a priority in the United Nations General Assembly, with continued work towards the full implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (PoA). Ahead of the conference to review the PoA, Caribbean leaders met with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs and its Regional Centre for Peace, Disarmament and Development in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNLIREC), highlighting the willingness of the region to lead conversations on disarmament. Within the Caribbean, Haiti was an early adopter of the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap (2020) which seeks to reduce the flow of firearms as well as bolster law enforcement capacity. In accordance with this roadmap, Haiti adopted a National Action Plan (NAP) to address firearms in the country with an emphasis on improving law enforcement capacities and reducing ammunition flows to non-state actors. The Republic of Haiti encourages Member States to reinforce national and regional early warning mechanisms and rapid coordination measures, particularly with the help of organizations such as the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL). Additionally, Haiti encourages Member States to centralize and standardize domestic regulation and management for small arms. Ultimately such measures will allow for Member States to cooperate on problems that have long plagued the international community. | |
| Country: | Haiti |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| As a signatory to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction (CWC), the Republic of Haiti acknowledges the dangers of chemical weapons and the role of the CWC in promoting international cooperation and maintaining peace and security. The international community has prioritized the creation of guidelines surrounding the use of chemical weapons since before 1925, when the Geneva Protocol was signed, prohibiting the use of chemical weapons in war. Despite this, it took nearly half a century for major states to begin addressing the existence of chemical weapon stockpiles beyond their use, and even longer before the CWC was formed. The Republic of Haiti's location near former leaders who both developed and used chemical weapons positions the nation in a place of concern over potential violations of the treaty. Additionally, given the high levels of gang violence and criminal activity within the nation, the Republic of Haiti remains concerned over the potential for non-state actors to get ahold of such warfare technology. Therefore, the Republic of Haiti urges developed countries and international organizations to provide assistance to developing nations in building the necessary infrastructure and capabilities to detect, prevent, and respond to potential chemical weapons threats with a particular emphasis on dual-use chemicals. The Republic of Haiti encourages Member States who have signed onto but not ratified the CWC to ratify the treaty, and urges non-signatories to both sign and ratify the CWC. Further, the Republic of Haiti advocates for an expansion upon the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to allow for more effective measures that conduct thorough investigations and impose sanctions against those found in violation of the CWC to further accountability among the international community. | |
| Country: | Honduras |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Honduras supports the implementation of practical measures which seek peace in various military capabilities. Honduras continuously commits itself to finding solutions among the international community in order to promote peace by building partnerships and signing resolutions that limit the use of certain weapons. The nation has done this in two specific sectors: disarmament of conventional weapons and the prevention of nuclear proliferation.
Honduras has participated in previous conventions and treaties to raise awareness of certain conventional weapons such as mines. In 1997, the nation signed as a member at the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on Their Destruction, a convention which seeks to eliminate the use of anti-personnel mines through manageable provisions (United Nations). By signing and entering into force, Honduras has contributed to the dramatic decrease of anti-personnel mines across the globe; now, 34 of the 50 states to have used anti-personnel mines are now bound by the convention (United Nations). In a similar manner, Honduras also signed and participated in the Convention on Cluster Munitions in 2008 in order to prevent the usage of cluster munitions, bombs which disperse more projectiles upon impact (United Nations). Honduras has also engaged in conventions to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, specifically the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). Signing the NPT in 1968, the nation of Honduras committed itself to peace by supporting the limitation of the proliferation of nuclear weapons, continuing to value international peace and working toward nuclear disarmament (United Nations). The nation of Honduras has shown a history of promoting peace through practical measures in the variation of different military capabilities. The delegation of Honduras continues to support these same ideas and will work to implement measures in order to produce peaceful solutions. | |
| Country: | Honduras |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| In its history, Honduras has not resorted to using chemical weapons in any conflict. Although the country has a history of civilian conflict, the Republic of Honduras is committed to protecting citizens both nationally and internationally from chemical weapons in all capacities.
The Republic of Honduras has ratified many treaties that seek to limit the use and creation of chemical weapons. These treaties include the ratification of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW). Honduras supported the TPNW to further the goals of the CWC and ensure there would be no leeway for nuclear weapons to become a replacement for chemical weapons. Additionally, in 2023, Honduras co-sponsored the 2023 UN General Assembly resolution on the TPNW calling for states to sign or ratify the Treaty if they have not done so already. The Republic of Honduras would like to support the creation and implementation of national authorities to ensure states are in compliance with the CWC. Honduras believes that a national authority would be the most effective way to verify if each state is in compliance with the CWC guidelines. Furthermore, to ensure that signers and ratifiers are abiding by the terms we believe a proper system to monitor the behaviors of participating states is crucial for ensuring no state is overstepping any of the CWC criteria. Honduras recognizes that chemical weapons have caused irreparable physiological, psychological problems and death to millions of lives and believes continued creation and enforcement of initiatives is essential to prevent such attacks from occurring in the future. | |
| Country: | Hungary |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| With the current geopolitical conflicts that exist, the need for disarmament has never been
more prevalent. The risk of nuclear weapons being used is reaching similar levels to that of
the height of the Cold War. Disarmament is more important than ever before. Therefore,
Hungary believes that it is a moral obligation of the international community to do its utmost
to attain it. Hungary reaffirms its commitment to peace both through nuclear disarmament
and disarmament in general. It is important to recognize that there is no shortcut when it
comes to nuclear disarmament. An incremental pragmatic approach is what the
international community needs. Thus, Hungary reaffirms its belief in the Nuclear Non-
Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime.
The NPT provides an essential foundation for the pursuit of nuclear disarmament in
accordance with Article VI. The next step would be the entry into force of the Comprehensive
Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) and the Fissile Material Cutoff Treaty (FMCT). The entry into
force of the CTBT is needed more than ever because there can be no meaningful nuclear
disarmament without a comprehensive and total ban on nuclear testing. Furthermore,
addressing the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other nuclear
explosive devices is crucial in preventing the expansion of nuclear arsenals as well as new
arms races. The FMCT would enhance global security through increased transparency and
confidence in States. Such transparency is essential for building trust and fostering
cooperative security measures.
For the delegation of Hungary, the need for peace lays the foundation for the decisions made regarding not just nuclear disarmament but disarmament in general. The military conflict in Ukraine has brought nothing but death and despair to so many families. Therefore, the international community needs to choose the fastest path to peace. More time leads to more deaths and more broken families. Weapon deliveries from various nations have not helped on the battlefield nor brought us closer to peace. The various weapon deliveries have only caused more death promulgating the war. Our solutions for disarmament must come back to the idea of mutual respect. There is no time greater than now for dialogue and diplomacy to return as the major tools for finding peace. | |
| Country: | Hungary |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Hungary stands firm in its belief that the use of chemical weapons by anyone, anywhere at any time, and under any circumstances cannot be tolerated. The re-emergence of chemical weapons poses a serious threat to international peace and security. Therefore, Hungary reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the integrity of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Hungary fully supports the activities of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to achieve this end. There have been repeated violations of the CWC in various parts of the world. Hungary is a strong supporter of the UN Secretary Generals Mechanism for Investigation of Alleged Use of Chemical and Biological Weapons (UNSGM). The UNSGM is the only independent international instrument in this field. This underscores the UNSGMs importance in combating the repeated violations that the international community has seen. Hungary believes that transparency is the means by which international peace and security can be attained. The UNSGM provides investigation capabilities creating an environment based on accountability. | |
| Country: | Indonesia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Indonesia firmly advocates against violence and the use of arms,
particularly nuclear weapons, for several reasons: humanitarian concerns, regional
security, global peace and stability, and its commitment to non-proliferation.
Indonesia recognizes the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons and believes that alternative, peaceful methods exist to resolve conflicts. The devastating impact of nuclear weapons on the environment, humanity, and the pursuit of peace reinforces Indonesia's opposition to their use. This position was reaffirmed by the President of Indonesia during the ratification of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) on December 23, 2024. The President stated, "...with this ratification, our national legal infrastructure will also become stronger to encourage international peace. I hope that more countries will ratify the TPNW to put pressure on nuclear- possessing countries and create strong anti-nuclear weapon norms..." This commitment is further supported by Indonesia's dedication to disarmament efforts. Indonesia actively promotes peace through practical disarmament measures, including the collection, control, and disposal of arms, as well as restraint in the production and procurement of weapons. The nation is also deeply engaged in the United Nations Programme of Action, contributing to global efforts in regulating small arms and light weapons. This involves strengthening law enforcement, enacting legislation, and implementing administrative procedures to prevent the illegal trade and misuse of these weapons. The Republic of Indonesia remains steadfast in its pursuit of global peace, advocating for the disarmament of nuclear and illicit arms. Its commitment to the collection, control, and disposal of weapons underscores its role as a key player in the international community's effort to promote peace and security. | |
| Country: | Indonesia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Since their conception, chemical weapons have been agents of fear and devastation. World
War I saw the first large-scale use of chemical weapons when mustard gas was used on
British troops. The use of chemical weapons still continues today. The Republic of Indonesia
is committed to peace and stability in not only Southeast Asia, but the world. The Republic of
Indonesia also strongly advocates for international cooperation in the advancement toward
disarmament of all chemical weapons.
Indonesia has been committed to the disarmament of chemical weapons since the creation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) in 1997, as we ratified the treaty just one year later in 1998. It is of utmost importance that the destruction of all declared, undeclared, and illegally possessed chemical weapons are destroyed. Strict adherence to the treaty and its contents are imperative for an end to chemical weapons development, production, stockpiling and usage. Peace is complicated, and this should not be understated, but it is not impossible to foster. Indonesia believes that addressing the issues of non-compliance and violations of the CWC will lead to a more peaceful world. Strong sanctions should be placed on non-member states until they have signed and ratified the treaty. Additionally, if non-member states should become compliant member states, they may be subject to a period of strict monitoring; this way the dismantling of their weapons is insured. | |
| Country: | Iraq |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Iraq has faced significant challenges with firearm violence in both foreign conflicts and domestic
affairs. As a nation that has endured the devastating consequences of armed conflict, the Iraqi
government is resolutely committed to safeguarding the security and well-being of its people. To
achieve lasting peace, we must prioritize the control and regulation of firearms, especially those
designed for military use and ensure that these weapons do not fall into the wrong hands.
Comprehensive firearm registration systems, stringent licensing requirements, and thorough
background checks for all prospective firearm owners are critical to curbing the rising rates of
gun-related violence globally. Such measures not only limit access to dangerous weapons but
also ensure that individuals with violent criminal histories or extremist affiliations are prevented
from acquiring firearms. However, we must also recognize the root causes of violence, such as
poverty, political instability, and the illegal drug trade, which exacerbate firearm misuse. Without
addressing these underlying social and economic drivers, even the most robust firearm
regulations will struggle to achieve lasting impact, as marginalized communities may still resort
to violence out of necessity or desperation. Addressing these interconnected issues is essential
for creating a more peaceful and stable society, as disarmament efforts must be accompanied
by policies that promote economic development, social inclusion, and political stability.
Iraq is ready to work with all nations in the pursuit of sustainable, long-term solutions that alleviate both international tensions and the internal challenges faced by our people. | |
| Country: | Iraq |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Convention on The Prohibition of The Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use
of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction is supported in full part by the Republic of
Iraq. The use of chemical weapons remains a threat to world peace as armed conflict
between nations continues to be an evolving threat in the modern age. strengthening
relations, deterring conflict, and preventing the deaths of innocent civilians when conflict is
active are all relative to addressing the issue of chemical weapons. Strengthening verification
and compliance ensures accountability by making sure all countries adhere to the destruction
of chemical weapons stockpiles. Our governing bodies can help by bolstering the OPCW's
resources and expanding inspection capabilities. Capacity-building and technical assistance
empower countries lacking infrastructure or expertise to comply with the CWC. By providing
training, technology, and resources, we can ensure that all member states can safely destroy
chemical stockpiles and monitor chemical activities effectively, reducing the risk of misuse.
Promoting international cooperation aids nations struggling with destruction processes by
fostering partnerships, education, and technical support. Together the UN can act as a
facilitator by creating platforms for collaboration, offering financial assistance, and ensuring
global solidarity in disarmament efforts, which strengthens collective security.
Our delegation is prepared to cooperate with all nations in implementing effective solutions that enforce the CWC, promote participation in the OPCW, and alleviate our citizens from the inhumane sufferings of war. | |
| Country: | Ireland |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Ireland strongly affirms the non-proliferation and disarmament of chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons across the world. The Republic of Ireland is dedicated to disarmament measures across the world to decrease conflict and decrease civilian casualties. Ireland has been a member of the Chemical Weapons Convention since 1997 and a member of the Biological Weapons Convention since 1972. In 2022, the Republic of Ireland played a crucial part in the Political Declaration on Strengthening the Protection of Civilians from the Humanitarian Consequences arising from the Use of Explosive Weapons in Populated Areas conference held in Dublin. 83 countries formally adopted this declaration, and more continue to do so. Ireland is committed to working with member states to promote the practical disarmament measures for all nations in order to promote peace throughout the world. | |
| Country: | Ireland |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| 193 countries have signed and ratified the Convention on the Prohibition of the
Development, Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their
Destruction. Ireland is dedicated to furthering the goals of this convention. In October of
2023, we donated 50,000 Euros to the Trust Fund for the Implementation of Article X of the
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). This funding will be used in
Ukraine to help them detect the use of and remnants of chemical weapons in their ongoing
conflict with Russia. Furthermore, Ireland is an Executive member of the OPCW Council and
a supporter of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC). In accordance with these bodies,
in 2011 Ireland passed its own biological weapons act which prohibits the development,
production, use, and stockpiling of biological and toxin weapons. It also bans the acquisition,
possession, retention, or transfer of these weapons.?? We encourage all member states to
adopt similar legislation. Currently, with global conflict rising, Ireland is deeply concerned
over the use of chemical weapons in combat zones. Chemical weapons have been
prohibited since the signing of the geneva convention, however, this does not stop their use
by adversaries. The destruction of chemical weapons in a safe manner needs to be a priority
in order to further global safety. Ireland looks forward to working with other member states
to find an inclusive solution to this issue.
| |
| Country: | Israel |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Israel is committed to ensuring a clean and sustainable environment for all nations. Israel places a high priority on the sustainability of clean water, especially in the Middle East. Given the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the West Bank, Israel requires additional international assistance in providing adequate clean water to Israeli citizens. Additionally, The state of Israel is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by the year 2050. To reach these goals, it is in the best interest of all nations to cooperate globally to preserve a clean, sustainable future. Israel pledges to pursue alternative energy sources and contribute to the research environment surrounding sustainable power generation. Furthermore, the state of Israel calls for the international community to collaborate to promote a healthy environment within war zones. | |
| Country: | Israel |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Israel acknowledges how disastrous chemical weapons can be when they are used and are an advocate for the safe destruction around the Globe. Israel signed the CCW (Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons in 1993, showing its support for the global effort to eliminate chemical weapons. Despite this, it has not ratified the treaty due to the volatile and hostile security environment in the region. Israel faces threats from state and non-state actors, including the possibility of chemical attacks by adversaries in the region which historically possessed chemical weapons, and terrorist organizations. From an Israeli perspective, regional disarmament should be comprehensive and address not only chemical weapons but also biological, nuclear, and conventional arms, to ensure balanced security for all states in the region. Israel's reluctance to fully implement the CWC without broader regional disarmament stems from concerns over its security vulnerability. It views disarmament initiatives, including the CWC, as part of a broader framework that must include credible security guarantees, verification mechanisms, and reciprocal actions from neighboring countries. Israel has consistently advocated for a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, but it maintains that this goal must be achieved through comprehensive regional peace agreements that address all security dimensions. | |
| Country: | Italy |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Italy remains committed to the disarmament of weapons of mass destruction, drawing a
distinction between conventional weapons to spur non-proliferation. We do not produce nuclear
weapons, but we will continue to innovate to reintroduce the use of nuclear power. Our main tie
to nuclear weapons still remains through the NATO nuclear sharing program.
We previously signed and continue to uphold the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, as we feel it sustains the standards previously established under EURATOM (the European Atomic Energy Community). We also endorse the United States Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) to work to ban the trade of weapons of mass destruction. These public steps Italy has taken to be involved in the containment of nuclear arms is done so out of responsibility to our citizens and citizens abroad. Currently Italy has not signed the Treaty of the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (as it would undermine the NATO nuclear sharing program and other scientific nuclear developments), but we continue to take steps to consider TPNW and evaluate it within the context of our goals as a nation committed to weapons controls. We have signed into effect two resolutions that affirm this consideration, the most recent being in May of 2022. These actions together affirm the responsibility we have towards maintaining peace through the control of the nuclear arms we do possess. Italy has a responsibility and prior commitment as a member of NATO to comply with our allies to ensure our citizens are awarded the peace NATO provides, which is why we remain in the nuclear sharing program and have not signed TPNW. To sign TPNW we as a nation need to identify the best way we can do so while simultaneously aligning with NATO and their goals. Italy also condemns countries that irresponsibly abuse their positions as nuclear-weapons states. We believe that nuclear weapons pose a threat to all of humanity and efforts must be continuously made to contain them and monitor their current existence. | |
| Country: | Italy |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Italy stands against the use of chemical weapons as a means of defense and will continue
to condemn countries who use them. They are a threat to peace, and we believe that every
country should join us in this position.
We are an executive member of the OPCW and plan to continue to be a major part of the council, as well as act against any country that does produce chemical weapons, in cooperation with UN Security Council Resolution 1540. Protecting innocent civilians remains a priority for us, and we will strive to make sure we can do that through limiting the use of chemical weapons. To ensure that these dangerous weapons aren't put into the wrong hands, we need to make sure good security and monitoring systems are put in place. We call for others to join us in this struggle to ensure long-term global stability. We are disturbed by the recent use of chemical weapons, such as by the al-Assad regime, and we condemn anyone who uses them, no matter what the circumstances are. In February of 2023, we donated in order to support the ability to address chemical weapon threats through scientific research. We have completely deconstructed our chemical weapon stockpile, and we call on other countries to do the same. By deconstructing these stockpiles, we are creating a safer place to live for innocent people of all nations. We believe that accountability needs to be taken by countries and states that use chemical weapons, which is why we are an active member of the Partnership Against Impunity for the Use of Chemical Weapons. We call for as many member states to join this partnership with us, so we are better able to condemn and publish the names of groups that do use these weapons. | |
| Country: | Japan |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The great state of Japan has seen unrivaled peace and prosperity within our borders as well as across the world. We are no longer in a time in which states make rash decisions to satisfy hunger or use weapons with massive destruction capabilities to meet their goals. We are in a more interconnected world that requires us to prioritize collaboration and communication with the end goal of greater levels of prosperity and peace. But there are still challenges to the peace and prosperity we are currently experiencing and higher levels we are trying to reach. Japan has first-hand experiences of the overwhelming destruction weapons can do to people and the landscape, whether that be the nuclear bombs dropped on our cities. The great state of Japan believes that we can reach greater levels of peace and prosperity through practical disarmament measures. For our own part, the great state of Japan has been a strong advocate for the cooperation and assistance of states to curtail the use of conventional arms. We have been a member of NPT, or the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. We also have been a member of the ATT, or Arms Trade Treaty, since 2014, which seeks to curb the use of small arms, tanks, armored vehicles, combat aircraft, missile launchers, missiles, etc. to prevent further conflicts or human rights abuses. The great state of Japan is a part of many more treaties that are similar to the NPT and ATT treaties, which seek to use practical disarmament measures to seek further peace and prosperity. The great state of Japan believes that it is not only our job but also the job of the world to do everything in their power to complete this goal. For it is for the present as well as a future in which conflict no longer exists. | |
| Country: | Japan |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| We as a nation are in support of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction (CWC). Japan recognizes the danger chemical weapons pose on civilians as well as humanitarian affairs. We believe that these weapons should be monitored and countries should follow a specific set of norms when in relation to chemical weapons. Japan has over the years fully supported the CWC so much so that our 38th State Party ratified the CWC and we even enacted the Chemical Weapons Prohibition law prior to the CWCs ratification. We have also assisted with China in removing abandoned chemical weapons as well as identifying old chemical weapons in Japan and removing them accordingly. Much like Nuclear weaponry we believe nations must be held to a standard in regards to chemical weapons to ensure the safety and prosperity of all people. | |
| Country: | Jordan |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Disarmament is the main foundation of the United Nations. To decrease the deadly arms, such as nuclear weapons, in the world, the United Nations implemented various treaties. These include the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, and more. Through these treaties, the United Nations is devoted to guaranteeing peace in the world. Unfortunately, the world is suffering from multiple arms conflicts; the most remarkable example is the Ukraine War. The Russian Federation installed tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus and threatened to use the nuclear weapons for the war. The Jordanian government swears to cooperate with the international community and actively follow international law and the Charter of the United Nations to solve this kind of armed conflict and implement disarmament measures to guarantee peace in the world. The Jordanian government is devoted to the disarmament in the world through cooperation with the international community. Jordan continued to not hold nuclear weapons even before or after becoming the signatory country of the Treaty on Non- Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. With the cooperation of the United States of America, by becoming a member of the Proliferation Security Initiative, the Jordanian government constantly tried its best to oust the ships or aircraft that were suspicious of transporting technologies that could develop nuclear weapons and other WMDs. In addition, through constant support for the establishment of the Middle East Free WMD Zone, the Jordanian government keeps trying to make the Middle East free from the WMD, which includes nuclear weapons. To solve the arms conflict, which contains threats to use nuclear weapons like the Ukraine War, the Jordanian government wants to appeal to our fellow delegates that it is time to gather together and discuss solutions to halt this kind of conflict effectively. Therefore, the delegate of Jordan strongly wants to propose the official establishment of the Middle East Free WMD Zone. If the world community succeeds in building this zone in the whole Middle East, the number of nuclear weapons and other WMDs that can implement genocide will decrease drastically, and the status of peace in the Middle East will become stable. Not only this, the delegate of Jordan wants to suggest forming an international fund that can help countries engage in the process of disarming effectively. Usually, nuclear weapons and other WMDs disarming projects cost a lot of funds, and establishing an international fund for the disarmament projects will not put much of a burden on countries in the world. Consequently, world security will be more stable than before. | |
| Country: | Jordan |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Prohibiting the advancement of chemical weapons, in any capacity, must be a top priority within the United Nations. While the United Nations has made clear their position on chemical warfare and have contributed in making significant progress toward the de-escalation of chemical warfare, the concern to limit the development and production of chemical weapons remains. Jordan has been a strong supporter of a WMD-free zone in the Middle East. The Jordanian government has also endorsed the Proliferation Security Initiative, which aims to stop the trafficking of WMDs. Jordan does not possess any chemical weapons and does not believe in the use of them in any capacity. The Jordanian government has been a consistent believer in this, having agreed to the Geneva Protocol in 1977 and the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1997. To help limit the development of chemical weapons, the Jordanian government would support its fellow delegates, especially those in the Middle East, to further push its efforts toward limiting the stockpiling and production of chemical weapons. There has been a concerning presence of chemical warfare in the Middle East, such as documented evidence of the Syrian government using sarin gas. This trend cannot continue as it sets a dangerous precedent. The Jordanian government would advocate for the disposal of government stockpiles of chemical weapons. This would eliminate the possibility of any government taking action using chemical weapons, and the use of them is never ethical in any circumstance. With cooperation with the UN and our fellow delegates, the Jordanian government believes it is possible to greatly limit the advancement of chemical warfare. | |
| Country: | Kenya |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Kenya recognizes the critical importance of practical disarmament measures in the pursuit of sustainable peace and security within the East African region and beyond. As a nation that has experienced the ramifications of conflict, including the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, Kenya firmly believes that disarmament is not merely a military concern but a pivotal aspect of nation-building and community resilience. Kenya's geographical position in a region plagued by various forms of violence, including terrorism, ethnic conflicts, and poaching, emphasizes our commitment to disarmament as a tool for peace consolidation. The Kenyan government has implemented various initiatives aimed at reducing the availability of firearms among civilians and enhancing the security of our borders. This includes community engagement programs and legislative measures to regulate the possession and use of arms. Furthermore, Kenya is actively involved in regional cooperation frameworks such as the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union (AU), which promote disarmament and arms control measures. We advocate for a comprehensive approach that includes education, community dialogue, and economic opportunities that address the underlying factors contributing to violence and insecurity. Moreover, Kenya supports the implementation of international treaties and agreements relating to disarmament, including the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) and the United Nations Programme of Action on the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons. We call upon the international community to enhance support for disarmament initiatives, recognizing that a collective effort is essential to tackle the global nature of arms proliferation. In conclusion, Kenya is committed to the consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures and urges all member states to collaborate in creating a secure environment where individuals can thrive without the fear of violence. Let us work together towards a future characterized by safety, stability, and prosperity. | |
| Country: | Kenya |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| In 2023, the Islamic militants Al-Shabaab committed 9 terror attacks across Kenya, killing dozens. Yet these are not isolated incidents and are highlighted by their 2015 slaughtering of 148 people at Garissa University. In conjunction, the use of chemical weapons by non-state actors seeking to kill has been on the rise as groups like the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant's (ISIL) use them in Syria. With extremist terrorist organizations an ever present threat in Kenyan life, and the use of chemical weapons by non-state actors an ever rising threat, it is why The Republic of Kenya strongly believes in the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) mission of destroying chemical weapons and preventing their potential use. In 2023, OPCW was able to declare 100% of all chemical weapon stockpiles responsibly and irreversibly destroyed for all 193 Chemical Weapons Convention Member-States (CWC). However, our work is not finished as the threat of chemical weapons is constantly evolving to now include small-scale production that is harder to track and monitor while track chemicals like chlorine, which cause similar difficulties for the OPCW, are becoming more and more prevalent and dangerous. From March 2011 to April 2017, at least 1,206 individuals were murdered in chemical weapon attacks across Syria. Furthermore, since 1970, 338 chemical weapon attacks have been carried out by non-state actors. What these events go to show is that in places like Syria, or the prominence of non-state actors like ISIL, the re-emergence of chemical weapons is a constant threat as the production and types of weapons continue to adapt. The Republic of Kenya's history with chemical weapon prevention is one of learning, growth, and leadership. In 2011, Kenya accepted Norwegian-funded aid to improve our chemical transportation and trade abilities. In 2022, Kenya joined Nigerian lab techs in the British-funded lab training to better prepare our labs to pass the OPCW Proficiency Tests. In March of 2023, Kenya hosted other Eastern African countries to strategize preventative measures for weapons of mass destruction, while in October of the same year, Kenya hosted 12 other African states and their customs officials in Canadian-funded identification and reporting training for dealing with chemicals in trade. In 2024, Kenya accepted Indian mentorship as they shared their knowledge and practices surrounding chemicals. India also guided us in crafting legislation and regulations, like the Strategic Goods and Control Bill, which would allow us to better control of export, import, re-export, transit and trans-shipment of strategic goods, technology and related services to prevent mishandling that could lead to important technology or chemicals getting into the hands of dangerous non-state actors like Al-Shabaab. It is with these things in mind that the Republic of Kenya presents our recommendations on how to continue OPCW development. Kenya suggests that we must strive to close the gaps in the CWC by continuing to increase non-member state participation like we have done with South Sudan and their observer status. By closing global holes, we make it harder for non-state actors to hide, produce, and proliferate chemical weapons. Kenya also suggests the imposition of economic sanctions on nation-states fostering non-state actors that have any history with chemical weapons or the processes used to make them. A major problem we face with non-state actors and chemical weapons is their small-scale production and use of invisible chemicals, and by creating hostility between the hosts and the guests over the development and possession of chemical weapons, we hope to shrink this threat. Kenya's final suggestion is to continue the development of knowledge and labs in places where such information and technology are less prevalent. The development of Kenyan labs and knowledge has made Kenya into an East African center for anti-terrorism. In developing this knowledge and technology by running programs like those that have trained us to pass the OPCW Proficiency Test, the world becomes a safer place more equipped to handle threats that arise. | |
| Country: | Kuwait |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The State of Kuwait recognizes the long-winded turmoil in the Middle East, caused by nuclear arms as well as other weapons of mass destruction, as an imminent threat that requires quick action across all parts of the world. Undoubtedly, banning the use of these arms will reduce the harmful effects of rising tensions between nations. Kuwait has continued to restate a desire to promote peace through global disarmament, working towards successfully creating the Non-Proliferation Treaty at the 2026 Review Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. The State of Kuwait has built its way towards this goal by speaking out about the destruction caused by these arms in past sessions of the Preparatory Committee meetings held for this treaty, and in order to establish a more peaceful, nuclear-free Middle Eastern region, our nation fully intends to ratify all disarmament treaties and agreements that will begin to reduce the tensions between Middle Eastern states. Kuwait does not accept or condone the extreme violence directed towards Gaza, along with threats from some parties to use nuclear arms against others. It is important that these conflicts are immediately halted and prevented from occurring in the future, therefore, the State of Kuwait implores every state to reflect these values in casting their votes and creating their resolutions henceforth. | |
| Country: | Kuwait |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The State of Kuwait reiterates that the possession, development, and transfer of chemical weapons diligently impedes international peace and the pursuit of global safety. It is necessary to intervene with the growing global tension of the chemical weapons threat by turning towards the United Nations and employing an intergovernmental strategy. The State of Kuwait ratified the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction (CWC) on May 29, 1997. Those ideals still ring true to Kuwait's identity. It is essential for each entity that has ratified the aforementioned document to fully embody the content of the Convention with no exceptions. Kuwait understands that international cooperation has to directly coexist and interact with sovereignty, however, Kuwait holds steadfast that the future of our global community depends on joint action when confronted with the use of Chemical Weapons. Kuwait urges the entirety of the international community to collaborate on safe and ethical methods for the disposal of chemical weapons because their mere existence is a threat towards global safety. | |
| Country: | Latvia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Although the Cold War ended some 35 years ago its effects are still as polarizing as ever.
The issue of disarmament has been a focal point for the decades after the resolution of this
conflict. While the countries of the International Community take wildly different viewpoints,
the attitude of the Republic of Latvia has been set since its independence in 1991: The best
protection of a weapon is to possess it as well.
The Republic of Latvia agrees that nuclear weapons are an absolute last resort, but it is still beneficial to countries around the globe to possess this option. One of the few ways the Republic of Latvia has to protect itself from those who wish to take away our independence is to maintain a "bigger stick". A sufficient threat is the singular way the Republic of Latvia, as well as the other nations comprising NATO, can prevent the liberation of our countries, the oppression of our cultures, and the deaths of millions. Of course, the Republic of Latvia doesn't wish to bring this scale of destruction upon any member of the global council, but to prevent this threat it is necessary to threaten it as well. In today's world Turmoil as well as military and political unrest run rampant. With a warzone just a few hundred kilometers from the doorstep of our great nation, it is paramount to protect ourselves. | |
| Country: | Latvia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| From the first application of chemical weapons to today, the world knew that they were
immoral. In the first world war children were left gasping for air while their lungs collapsed
and all medics could do was watch. Today these chemical weapons are more advanced and
much deadlier. These weapons serve no strategic importance other than to cause suffering
to those unlucky enough affected by these weapons of mass destruction. The Republic of
Latvia, along with other members of The Australian Group as well as the Chemical Weapons
Convention, believes that chemical weapons should be outlawed from being developed,
produced, stockpiled, and used.
Today only a handful of nations still possess these weapons of mass destruction. It is the goal of the Republic of Latvia, as well as the Chemical Weapons Convention, to eliminate all stockpiles of these illegal weapons. This is necessary to protect our citizens from these horrific deaths. | |
| Country: | Lebanon |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Lebanon strongly believes in the importance of peace and transparency in practical disarmament. The usefulness of technology in creating peace can not be understated. However, the rise of artificial intelligence and the development of autonomous weapons will severely threaten global peace if not addressed. We must come to a solution that makes a clear line of order for autonomous weapons systems' use of force. There must be deep conversations on the actions of humans and autonomous machines. The only path to disarmament is for all member states to work together. Until that point, peace could not be achieved. We plan to work with member states to create a committee on the regulation of Autonomous weapons systems--reminding the commitment to resolution 78/241, which calls for a report on autonomous weapons and the views of member states. Lebanon supports using satellites in military use to lower tensions through transparency. Nonetheless, state sovereignty must be respected when disarmament measures are enforced. We note the recent conflict in the Middle East and its historical context. Lebanon is deeply concerned for states' rights to proportional defense and believes states should have the right to defend themselves appropriately. We aim to work toward an agreement to create stability in the Middle East and address the need for disarmament. | |
| Country: | Lebanon |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Lebanon recognizes the Geneva Protocol of 1969, which regulated the
production of biological and chemical weapons in war. We consider our commitment to the
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). We Urge fellow member
states to respect the need for transparency in their weapons stockpiles. We plan to propose
to redevelop or create a new commission to oversee the destruction of chemical weapons
with the use of AI to streamline data sharing and increase transparency between member
states. We propose an increase to the OPCW workforce by 60% from 500 to 800. These
workers must be professionals from all member states in their respective fields. We will
propose that the body ratify Israel, South Sudan, Egypt, and the Democratic People's
Republic of Korea into the CWC agreement to foster a safer world for all.
| |
| Country: | Libya |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| On December 19th 2003 Prime Minister Muammar Gaddafi renounced nuclear weapons and began the process to destroy them, and had it confirmed that the delegation of Libya is true to its word and did disassemble all nuclear weapons. The delegation of Libya encourages and supports all other representatives present to do the same, and renounce and destroy any nuclear weaponry they may possess. Libya's continued striving for peace has allowed her people to prosper whenever possible. In 2020 Libya's longing for peace saw a ceasefire struck between the official government and the rival administration of the self- styled Libyan National Army. The Representatives of Libya strive to make the world a safer place, which can only be done if every Delegate works together. Look to Libya for an example. Libya has been free of nuclear weaponry for over 20 years, an example that all other delegates should follow. In the next 5 years the delegation from Libya encourages and implores that all representatives present lay down and destroy any and all nuclear weapons, such that we all can take on a better and safer tomorrow together. | |
| Country: | Libya |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Libya is a signatory on the OPCW (Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons) agenda. Libya has implemented measures to dispose of chemical weapons since the year 2004. Diligent work has produced long term success in this matter, and Libya was deemed successful by the OPCW in 2017, concluding that Libya had been rid of all forms of chemical weapons from Category One, Two, and Category Three class munitions. Libya has not faltered in commitment to adhere to the OPCW as of 2024 and has not renewed production of chemical weapons. Libya was one of three nations spearheading the effort to safely remove and destroy chemical weapons from twelve countries. In collaboration with the OPCW, Libya has played a significant role for the past two decades in disposing of its own chemicals and those of other nations which pose a threat to be converted into weaponry. Libya has diplomatically collaborated with other nations, demonstrating that ambitions to rid the globe of some of the most abhorrent weapons can successfully transcend common economic and geographic allegiances. Libya has expressed concerns to OPCW of possible circumstances in which terrorist groups may come into possession of chemical weapons. Libya has also experienced a chemical weapons attack domestically from actors with ties to other nations in recent years. | |
| Country: | Luxembourg |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Luxembourg has a long history of involvement with its surrounding countries of Belgium, Germany, and France concerning disarmament and international security. Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Union and North Atlantic Treaty Organization, as well as an active participant in nuclear non-proliferation talks and United Nations. Luxembourg has financially supported international peacekeeping missions since 1991 and has been deploying troops for peacekeeping missions since 1992. As a small nation, Luxembourg recognizes and understands the importance of ensuring peace through disarmament. International cooperation is essential to make sure that disarmament is practical, though. Luxembourg has been able to maintain a minimal military for decades because of international cooperation with neighboring countries. Luxembourg encourages fellow member states to engage in more international agreements for peacekeeping and humanitarian aid. Military upkeep is, of course, still important for the purposes of defense or deterrence. However, through thee bolstering of bilateral cooperation and larger treaties, practical disarmament is possible and will push the world towards peace. | |
| Country: | Luxembourg |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is fully committed to the global elimination of chemical weapons and to the objectives of the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (CWC). As a signatory and state party to the CWC since 1997, Luxembourg firmly supports the convention's mandate to prohibit the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons, as well as to ensure their complete destruction. Luxembourg recognizes that chemical weapons are indiscriminate and inhumane, posing significant threats not only to peace and security but also to human rights and the environment. Luxembourg is concerned by the reports of recent violations of the CWC, particularly the alleged use of chemical weapons in conflict zones. Luxembourg emphasizes the need for accountability and supports strong verification measures by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to ensure compliance. Luxembourg also believes that international cooperation is critical in assisting states with the implementation of their CWC obligations. In this regard, Luxembourg advocates for increased technical assistance and capacity-building to help countries lacking the necessary resources to safely destroy chemical stockpiles. Looking forward, Luxembourg stresses the importance of reinforcing the universalization of the convention. Luxembourg calls on non-signatory states to accede to the CWC and urges the international community to remain vigilant in preventing the re- emergence of chemical weapons. Through multilateral cooperation, Luxembourg stands ready to work towards a world free of chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Madagascar |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The trafficking of illegal weapons has been a topic of discussion since the
decolonization of Africa. We recognize the serious dangers caused by illegal arms
trafficking by terrorist organizations. These dangers have deliberately impacted both our
region and nations' stability. The presence of illicit arms and trafficking to regional peace,
development, and security causes widespread destabilization and violence. Many
countries within this region have not been able to develop and prosper effectively. Having
an illegal flow of weapons or arms across borders has fueled local conflict and supplied
the operations of terrorist and criminal organizations. International disruption of peace and
stability has been posed by these threats, including border dangers, which have
weakened United Nations international peacekeeping efforts.
As a nation, we strongly advocate arms control and international disarmament. This issue causes arms to end up in the hands of dangerous groups escalating violence. Furthermore, having weak security near our nation's martial areas and limited border control can further the risk of illicit weapons throughout our country, which potentially can cause a loss of internal control. In regions of the Horn of Africa, traffickers take advantage of porous borders to transfer weapons, in order to diminish these issues, satellite surveillance systems and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) are needed to monitor illegal arms transfers across the region. Our government has facilitated many treaties, including the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crimes (UNTOC), and the United Nations Office for Disarmament, which regulates the international trade of conventional weapons. We continue to promote the prevention of illegal arms trafficking to enhance international cooperation and fundamentally improve international peace and security. We strongly suggest that the United Nations increase transparency in arms transfer to strengthen the safeguarding of these weapons. Illegal arms trafficking leads to threats to national and international security. We advocate for international treaties and disarmament efforts using technological advancement to combat arms trafficking, reduce regional conflict, and promote global security and peace. New advancements in technology, including drones, cyber warfare, and nuclear arms, have posed a substantial threat to international security. The possibility of non-state actors acquiring these arsenals. We recognize the catastrophic potential of nuclear warfare, both directly and through its effects on global repercussions. Madagascar's accession with regional and international forums like the African Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone Treaty (ANWFZ) in July 2009 was ratified, which prohibits the production, acquisition, and deployment of any sort of nuclear weapons in Africa. This treaty aligns with Madagascar's stance of reducing nuclear dangers and ensuring stability and safety in the Indian Ocean Region. As a nation that values peace and international cooperation, we are committed to global efforts to prevent dangers posed by terrorist acquisition of these weapons. The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was ratified in 1970, the objective involves efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and ensure nuclear materials are appropriately safeguarded. Madagascar actively endorses this treaty and believes that solid international cooperation is essential to prevent the acquisition of nuclear materials by non-state actors. We have been active participants and fully support the UN Office for Disarmament and Affairs (UNODA). Being a part of diplomatic regulations has led Madagascar to advocate for disarmament initiatives and comprehensive nuclear security measures to diminish threats posed by nuclear arms and enhance international security cooperation. Comprehensive international provisions are needed to secure nuclear resources, including security border control and export monitoring systems. We aim to strengthen our domestic capabilities to monitor and regulate the transit of nuclear materials and prevent the risk of these materials attained by terrorist entities. | |
| Country: | Madagascar |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| As the threat of terrorism grows, there is always a possibility for these non-state
actors to have a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) capability. This
threat, although rare, is still severe eventually in countries where there are no significant
CBRN defense capabilities. Africa being one of the most populated regions of the world
with a high risk for terrorist attack, the real threat of a chemical attack is very possible. The
risk doesn't just go to chemical weapons, but also biological and nuclear. Biological
weapons are a possibility with organized and wealthy terrorist weapons, such as Al-Qaeda
and even state-sponsored terrorism. Nuclear terrorism is also a threat which can be
possible for similar threats. However, nuclear terrorism isn't just setting off a nuclear
weapon, but a simple explosion with radioactive materials can kill thousands. This is
definitely true in less developed nations with no serious CBRN defense infrastructure or
capabilities.
Madagascar wishes to work with the international community to create more funding and an international CBRN task force to solve the issue. The task force would comprise of CBRN experts and have the primary mission to train, assist, and respond to CBRN attacks for nations in need. An organization similar to the NATOs Combined Joint CBRN Defence Task Force organized by the UN can greatly benefit countries like Madagascar. This multinational task force can also give a message to non-state actors that the international community is united against the CBRN-related terrorism. Countries that obtained chemical weapons shall be held responsible. During the Syrian Civil War, there were several chemical attacks resulting in many innocent civilians being killed, such as the 2013 Ghouta chemical attack that resulted in around 1,000 deaths, including children. Other states that parade around their chemical weapons every year are countries that disrupt international security. This disregard for basic global safety and security needs to be addressed and punished. | |
| Country: | Maldives |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Maldives fully supports the milestones previously achieved by the
international community on consolidating peace through practical reduction and control of
conventional weapons. Successful cooperation among Member States led to the creation of
the Conference on Disarmament (CD), the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs
(UNODA), and disarmament agreements: Mine Ban Treaty, 1997; the Convention on Cluster
Munitions (CCM, 2008); and the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT, 2013). The Maldives has acceded
to the Mine Ban Treaty, CCM, ATT to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter. The
Maldives' participation in these agreements demonstrates unequivocal support for practical
disarmament. Within the context of these treaties, the Maldives believes that conflicts can be
resolved through discussion, not violence.
The international community shows a change in the volume of transnational transfers of major weapons in 2019-2023, which is 3.3 percent lower than in 2014-2018. Nevertheless, with rising global tensions and climate change, the future of the Maldives and many other Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is in question. Understanding shared dangers that States might encounter, the Maldives agrees with the Pact for the Future (A/RES/79/1), Action 27. The international community must be alert to the rapid development of new technologies that can be weaponised. First-person-view (FPV) drones and maritime drones are becoming dangerous tools in modern warfare and when acquired by non-state actors. It could lead to the early emergence of Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems. Drones can be used to impose blockades on global trade routes, potentially affecting SIDS and other trade- dependent States. The Maldives encourages Member States to promote better national legislation to regulate the production, sale, and transfer of FPVs and maritime drones. Furthermore, the Maldives recommends that UNODA and CD launch a review of the potential risks posed by FPVs and maritime drones on trade routes. | |
| Country: | Maldives |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Maldives believes that the re-emergence of chemical weapons would
prove to be detrimental to the common future of Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
and the international community. The proliferation of chemical weapons and the
improper handling of dual-use chemicals can lead to not only human suffering but also to
environmental damage including the exacerbation of issues such as climate change and
rising sea levels. The Conference of the States Parties' (CoSP) latest review (RC-5) of the
Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) highlighted the danger of the potential
development of chemical weapons and the need for enhanced verification methods.
These methods include but are not limited to greater transparency through international
exchanges of data and the use of advanced technologies such as gas chromatography-
mass spectrometry (GC-MS) which has become one of the primary identification methods
for chemical weapons used by the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
(OPCW). RC-5 also focused on greater national implementation by Member States of the
CWC. This sentiment is congruent with the 16th goal of the United Nations' 2030 Agenda
for Sustainable Development, which promotes the establishment of effective, accountable,
and inclusive institutions. The Maldives has made progress in this area by creating the
Chemicals and Project Management Units which work as subsidiary bodies to the
government's Environment Management and Conservation Department. These units help
enforce the safe handling, transport, and disposal of potentially harmful chemicals.
To secure the future of coastal areas and island nations, the international community must act. Member States could strengthen national legislation against the illegal trade and misuse of chemical weapons and dual-use chemicals. Increased funding for the OPCW may enhance investigative capabilities to prevent chemical weapon re-emergence. Additionally, amending the CWC to allow frequent unannounced investigations could be beneficial, even in the absence of non-compliance allegations. | |
| Country: | Mexico |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The issue of global disarmament and international security has become increasingly
important in the present day. Conflicts both old and new have sparked up in different regions
across the world. Millions of people each year are negatively affected by these conflicts.
Throughout history, there have been many attempts to control conventional weapons and
maintain the right of states to decide who can keep weapons. None of these treaties had
success in controlling the armament of the armies.
Mexico stands with the international community on the control of certain conventional weapons and the breakup of the weapon's black market. However, we would also like to reaffirm each member states right to keep internal security within their borders with a national army. More restrictions and international pressure should be made on arms-producing and military service groups to hold them accountable if their products get into the hands of illegally organized groups, especially in the developing world. Such examples of groups within Mexico that have used illegal weapons are the Sinaloa Cartel, Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), La Nueva Familia Michoacana Organization (LNFM). While it can be helpful to institute practical disarmament measures to curb violence with these weapons; it must also be stated that other variables can affect the use of said weapons such as striving to get more money, resources, and political power. | |
| Country: | Mexico |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| While Mexico has not had major conflicts relating to the use of chemical weapons within
its own borders it remains concerned about the growing use by other groups across the
world, especially with the intentional lack of accordance with long withstanding international
law, such as Geneva Protocol of 1925.
Mexico fully supports the international community on the restriction of chemical weapons and is a proud member of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) since 1993. We also advises the four remaining members of the United Nations who have not ratified the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) to do so as soon as possible to guarantee protection from such harmful weapons. Mexico will maintain its history of supporting the restriction of chemical weapons with future resolutions brought to the United Nations General Assembly or Security Council. As well as trying to persuade other member nations to uphold their responsibilities to maintain the CWC and other related treaties. We stand with the nations of the world in upholding and promoting the prohibition of chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Mozambique |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Mozambique is fully committed to promoting peace and stability through disarmament.
With a history of civil war and armed conflict, Mozambique understands the critical role
disarmament plays in preventing violence and fostering long-term peace. With the rise of
conflict in the Middle East, disarmament measures are crucial to strengthening global
security and ensuring the alignment of peace. As a signatory of international agreements
such as Resolution A/RES/72/55 on disarmament and international security, Mozambique
supports global and regional efforts to reduce the threat posed by uncontrolled weapon
proliferation. As terrorism is an international threat, A/RES/72/55 highlights the need for
our international community to adhere to the 2030 Sustainable Development goals to
reduce illicit arms sales to combat terrorism. Mozambique has struggled with the rise of
terrorism within our country, as well as our global communities. A/RES/72/55 has
contributed to the reduction of terrorism. We acknowledge the importance of a state's right
to defend itself from such threats, such as the land mind issue Mozambique has been
effectively combating.
However, excessive militarization often leads to instability, especially in regions still recovering from conflict. Mozambique advocates for a balanced approach, such as supporting defense while promoting international peace efforts. Working in line with Resolution S/RES/1540, Mozambique believes that ensuring global security should not come at the cost of reigniting conflict. Incorporating new technologies, like satellite imagery and drones, into peacekeeping and disarmament is essential. Mozambique advocates using these tools to strengthen monitoring and confidence-building efforts in conflict zones. These technologies ensure that arms reduction agreements are respected without overstepping sovereignty concerns. Mozambique's experience with post-conflict recovery has solidified our commitment to disarmament. By supporting international regulations on emerging military technologies and promoting arms reduction, we aim to contribute to a safer and more peaceful world. Disarmament is not just about weapons; it's about building trust, stability, and the possibility of lasting peace. | |
| Country: | Mozambique |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The misuse of biological weapons represents a severe global threat, with the potential to destabilize international peace, public health, and security. In today's interconnected world, no region is immune from the impact of bioweapons proliferation. Mozambique aligns with the global call for stricter controls to prevent non-state actors from exploiting biological materials. The Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) remains a cornerstone in disarmament efforts, and Mozambique urges all states to adopt national legislation aligned with its principles. While the BTWC has been instrumental in preventing the large-scale development of bioweapons, its effectiveness is undermined by the absence of a formal verification mechanism. The challenge lies in political disagreements among member states over sovereignty concerns, inspection procedures, and the potential misuse of confidential data. Mozambique encourages the international community to overcome these obstacles by empowering the United Nations to conduct unannounced inspections and audits, ensuring transparency and trust in disarmament efforts. Mozambique has actively engaged in regional capacity-building programs to strengthen biosafety and biosecurity. Through partnerships with the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), Mozambique has contributed to initiatives such as training programs and the development of biosecurity frameworks. Moving forward, Mozambique stands ready to collaborate further with international partners, sharing best practices and participating in workshops to enhance regional preparedness for biological threats. The UN plays a crucial role in coordinating disarmament efforts, and Mozambique supports the active involvement of the Security Council, the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), and regional bodies in strengthening the BTWC. Mozambique urges the UN to establish ethical guidelines for dual-use research and promote international data-sharing networks that enhance public health while mitigating risks. Committed to advancing biosecurity protocols, fostering trust, and eliminating the threat of biological warfare, Mozambique believes that, through coordinated global efforts, the BTWC's goals can be achieved, ensuring a safer and more secure future for all. | |
| Country: | Nauru |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Nauru G1 - Position Paper
Topic A: Consolidation of Peace through Practical Disarmament Measures In keeping with the spirit of the UN Charter While the Republic of Nauru has no military forces, it remains committed to peace through practical disarmament measures, including the elimination of nuclear weapons. On October 21, 2013, New Zealand, speaking on behalf of Nauru in the United Nations General Assembly's First Committee, emphasized the need for nuclear disarmament. The statement urged a humanitarian focus on the global agenda and the development of multilateral negotiations on nuclear disarmament. By supporting this statement in 2013, Nauru demonstrated its commitment to peace through practical disarmament. Moreover, the Republic of Nauru benefits from military support from the Commonwealth of Australia under a Memorandum of Understanding. Australia also supports peace through practical disarmament measures, including prohibitions on weapons of mass destruction and inhumane conventional weapons. Through this understanding, Nauru and Australia collaborate to establish a foundation for peace through practical disarmament. | |
| Country: | Nauru |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Topic B: Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development,
Production, Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction
In keeping with the spirit of the UN Charter
The Republic of Nauru, while it does not hold a standing army or have any weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons, has dedicated itself and is continuously driven towards maintaining and the advancement of peace through the Prohibition of development, production, stockpiling, and all use of chemical weapons by any State or Nation in the world. Nauru adheres to and promotes the statutes laid out by the Chemical Weapons Conference to eliminate the development and use of all chemical weapons, through the prohibition of chemical weapons and by ordering the destruction of stockpiles of chemical weapons held by any state or group that possesses them. Nauru's commitment to this task can be further expressed by the passage of the Chemical Weapons Convention Act of 2012 by the Republic of Nauru's parliament. In addition, the Republic of Nauru benefits from military support from the Commonwealth of Australia under a Memorandum of Understanding. Australia in cooperation with Nauru, also, supports and promotes the prohibition, stockpiling, and use of Chemical Weapons in pursuit of their destruction. Through this union of common interests, The Republic of Nauru and Australia collaborate in striving for peace through the international prohibition of Chemical Weapons. | |
| Country: | Nepal |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Nuclear and autonomous weapons pose a great threat to the homeostasis of the modern
world order. The impact of these weapons has the potential to destroy the life of every
person on Earth. Millions of people would be obliterated in an instant, cities would be
shattered, and nations traumatized. In addition to the effects of nuclear weaponry on Earth,
their potential spread into outer space adds a lethal layer to their already dangerous
presence. International cooperation is vital to maintaining peaceful relations as well as
working towards disarmament to eliminate the growing threat of nuclear war, which would
result in disaster for all parties involved.
We are committed to ensuring the total disarmament of nations as well as the prevention of colonialism in outer space. The help of United Nations organizations and committees is welcomed and encouraged. As Nepal, we do not have the same level of nuclear resources as other nations, making us vulnerable to the decisions of greater armed states. This vulnerability further widens the gap between the great powers and the rest of the world, resulting in a non-equitable distribution of power. This power indifference continues to be of great concern as the new frontier of outer space is being explored for colonialist reasons. By all means, these efforts should be deemed unethical and should be stopped. Space exploration must be accessible to all nations in an equitable manner as outer space is of common human heritage. We want to work with our neighbors India and China as well as any other nation that believes in the safe and equitable use of nuclear weaponry and space exploration. Continuing to develop international treaties and resolutions is pivotal to establishing fair access among nations. We also support the exploration of space as long as there is equitable access for all nations to participate if willing, however, that support does not extend to the militarization of space. | |
| Country: | Nepal |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| In an increasingly interconnected world, it is essential that nations collaborate to eradicate
chemical weapons and uphold international security. Nepal reaffirms its unwavering
commitment to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production,
Stockpiling, and Use of Chemical Weapons and their Destruction (CWC), viewing it as a
cornerstone of global peace and security. While Nepal does not possess the advanced
resources of more developed weapons, we recognize that collaboration, particularly in
regions recovering from the effects of chemical weapons, is essential to achieving complete
disarmament. We advocate for stringent regulation against the illicit trafficking of chemical
weapons, believing that without robust international cooperation, these dangerous
materials could fall into the wrong hands. Furthermore, Nepal emphasizes the importance of
capacity-building efforts to assist developing nations in implementing the CWC. Greater
transparency in the stockpiling and destruction of chemical weapons is critical, as trust
between nations is fundamental to global security.
The pursuit of chemical disarmament must be closely linked to the broader development agenda. Nepal calls for the reallocation of resources once dedicated to weapons production towards sustainable development initiatives, such as poverty alleviation and technological innovation. For nations emerging from conflict, the financial burden of dismantling chemical weapon stockpiles should not impede their progress toward recovery. Nepal stresses that international cooperation and financial assistance are vital to ensuring that the CWC is enforced equitably across all states. We urge the global community to support partnerships and promote both disarmament and sustainable development. By fostering a shared sense of responsibility, we can pave the way toward a world free from the threat of chemical warfare while ensuring a more just and secure future for all nations. | |
| Country: | Netherlands |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Consolidation of Peace through Practical Disarmament Measures Small arms and light weapons (SALW) are the primary fuel of violence and destabilization throughout the world. To promote peace and protect the lives of innocent people, as well as the planet, the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) was created through joint international cooperation. A powerful treaty, its scope is limited only by international support. The Netherlands recognizes the strength of this treaty and pushes for further signature as well as other programs to ensure that these issues of health and peace are spread. The power of the United Nations is the pressure that it puts onto other nations to keep the world safe. This position would push nations who have not signed the Arms Trade Treaty to do so under the premise that it would improve international relations and help track international weapons trading. Without cooperation, the treaty loses power and efficiency. Only through international cooperation can these aims, such as sustainability goal 16, be achieved. Part of this international cooperation is transparency. By building trust and clearly understanding the arms trade, arms races can be prevented and long-term stability throughout the world can be achieved. Included in this position is the work to proliferate disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs throughout the world to ensure that nations can get into a peacetime economy and that the tools for instigation are removed. The Netherlands is proud to be a leader in peace throughout the world by tackling SALW trade by practical measures such as the ATT and DDR programs. It aims to ensure that these policies are internationally recognized and acted upon to ensure global stability and peace. | |
| Country: | Netherlands |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is an international group which has worked to ensure implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Although a powerful group, it is independent from the UN which prevents it from taking drastic actions if a state fails to comply. As a ratifier of the CWC, the Netherlands' stance is clear. Given the threat that these weapons pose, pressure needs to be maintained on nations producing or who have yet to destroy their stockpiles and means of producing chemical weapons. The Netherlands signed this treaty and has been a vocal supporter. The Netherlands provides funds for programs to ensure that these weapons don't exist. This proposition holds that the UN would fully implement the OPCW and make the CWC treaty into law. This would ensure that the treaty has stronger enforcement across the world from the harm of chemical weapons. The UN must ensure that funding is provided to destroy all stockpiles or facilities. Additionally, the UN must fund audit programs to ensure that materials which can be used for chemical weapons are used for research, medical, or pharmaceutical purposes exclusively. If nations are not abiding by this legislation, the United Nations would provide peacekeepers to the area to ensure that escalations, which may prompt the use of weapons, do not occur. These actions will ensure that the UN is taking positive steps toward sustainability goal 16 by bringing about peace, as well as goals 3, 6, 13, 14, and 15 by keeping people and the planet safe from chemical weapons which have time and time again shown their deadly impact against non-combatant lifeforms. The Netherlands has shown, through its actions and early membership in the OPCW, that there needs to be drastic measures to ensure the disarmament and prevention of chemical weapons, specifically through the jurisdiction of the United Nations who can securely and efficiently enforce this legislation. | |
| Country: | New Zealand |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand has been rigorously committed to fighting the rise, distribution, and use of lethal arms for nearly seven decades. The devastation wrought by the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, and the testing of hydrogen bombs in the Pacific in the 1950s, horrified the people of New Zealand. This period marked the beginning of New Zealand's mission to championing practical disarmament, a mission that remains just as passionate today. New Zealand has proudly supported various UN resolutions to enhance global disarmament efforts, including the A/RES/77/69 that advocated for transparency in armament's calling for increased efforts by nations to annually report their arms to the UNODA register (UNROCA). This resolution calls to attention important revisions that need to be emphasized to ensure transparent reporting such as compatible legal frameworks and transferring already consistently reported data of nations from the ATT to UNROCA. New Zealand encourages states to use UN resources such as those provided by the UNIDIR to create compatible domestic policy that ratify articles of the ATT, which we accomplished by ratifying articles 6, 7, and 11(2) and creating our national arms control system in 2014. In 2014, we proudly supported A/RES/69/60 encouraging all governmental bodies and NGO's to participate in practical disarmament measures, in which we put into practice by helping establish a regional office for the UNRCPD. We are co-sponsor on A/RES/71/258, which highlights the urgency for global disarmament initiatives. New Zealand has and will continue to strongly advocate for increased funding through PPPs to support disarmament initiatives, particularly in developing nations. This includes under Chapter IV, Article 11 of the UN charter encouraging increased financial commitments to UN-led disarmament efforts, further recommending that such funding allows for more comprehensive strategies to tackle the challenges in implementing disarmament measures. We have demonstrated our commitment by supporting the development of regional offices for disarmament affairs such as the UNRCPD, UNLIREC, and UNREC. Encouraging such funding would authorize more conferences on the issue, expert consultations, legal assistance, and the implementation of systems to monitor compliance with disarmament agreements and promote public awareness and educational campaigns such as those conducted by UNRCPD which seek to address SDG 4.7 and 5.5 along with SDG target 16.4. New Zealand expresses its hope to remain steadfast in its commitment achieve peace with the means of practical disarmament through rigorous advocacy and collaboration grounded in the principles of the UN Charter and the Sustainable Development Goals | |
| Country: | New Zealand |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand views the global eradication of chemical weapons as a high priority as they pose a threat to human life. We are fully committed to the Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (CWC), which has been successful in reducing chemical weapons and guaranteeing that no state or non-state actor can use such weapons of mass destruction. The significance of the CWC is stressed by latest violations, such as the use of sarin gas in Syria, which stress the continuing need for awareness and cooperation to inhibit the use of chemical weapons. The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons notes that there are 12,000 nuclear warheads globally, with 9,000 in active military stockpiles. Such numbers draw attention to the urgency to proclaim "Never Again" regarding nuclear weapons, a phrase from the Tenth Review Conference of the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. New Zealand affirms that suppressing the construction, testing, transfer, and use of nuclear weapons is of utmost importance, and that global action should not be delayed. New Zealand strongly condemns the use of chemical weapons as a moral imperative and humanitarian concern, consistent with the principles of the 1949 Geneva Conventions. New Zealand has taken comprehensive measures to uphold the Convention on Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (CWC) both domestically and internationally, having enacted stringent legislation to regulate chemical substances and ensure compliance with CWC obligations. New Zealand has successfully contributed to the OPCW, which has approved the elimination of over 99% of declared chemical weapons in Syria, leading to its 2013 Nobel Peace Prize award. New Zealand expresses its hope to enhance international collaboration for CWC implementation and encourages member states to increase financial commitments (via PPPs) for capacity- building initiatives in developing countries, recognizing the need for equitable resources for effective disarmament. With 193 countries in the CWC, New Zealand further invites collaboration among those that have not signed. Only through collaborative diplomacy, New Zealand reaffirms its global commitment to a world free of destructive chemical weapons and a safe future for all. | |
| Country: | Nigeria |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The amount of weapons in Nigeria that are controlled by militant groups such as Boko Haram are harming our country. Boko Haram poses a threat to the security of the country by attacking military bases and stealing our weapons. Because of this, we are against the use and production of illicit arms. We have canvassed vigorously, for a universal, legally binding treaty (ATT) to control and eventually eliminate the production, transfer, and sales of illicit arms which contribute immensely to the destabilization of governments especially in Africa and most developing countries. They are also against coups and extremist groups which perpetuate inequality and destabilize governments. We need to increase jobs and industry in the country so that people are not drawn into militant groups. We would like to end the flow of weapons to Boko Haram. This can be done through bolstering the military strength of Nigeria to be able to defend our military bases from Boko Haram.
Funding from other countries will be necessary for us to fortify our military bases. We are being supplied weapons from other countries but will need to fortify our bases to protect these weapons. This is not only our issue, the international community must strengthen its commitment to arrest the flow of arms and violent people into West Africa as a whole since our neighboring countries are also being harmed by military groups. Extremist groups are coming into our country to the north. The security of Nigeria is related to the security of West Africa and so our neighbors need to take similar actions with international support to rid our countries of coups and extremist groups. | |
| Country: | Nigeria |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Chemical weapons were widely used in World War I and have since been the reason for over one million deaths. There are many different types of chemical weapons, some of which include choking agents, blistering agents, and riot agents. Nigeria has so vigorously backed all attempts to fulfill our core goals of outlawing the development, procurement, stockpiling, retention, transfer, and use of chemical weapons as well as their destruction since it joined the CWC as a State Party. We have complied with the Organization's request for all relevant information about its chemical activities, demonstrating our commitment to openness, cooperation, and coordination with the Organization. In light of this, we suggest that there is more surveillance on nuclear power plants and more transparency within the countries. When we suggest surveillance, we mean the regular check-in of all nuclear storage spaces within a country, where other government officials can just walk in and check one's nuclear space. Switching the focus to more transparency, countries should be notified of each country's chemical and biological weapon amount, and when new ones are being made. This would allow us and other countries to efficiently keep each other in check. | |
| Country: | Norway |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Due to the current state of the world, with wars in both Ukraine and Israel, we believe that it is critical now, more than ever, to increase the enforcement of conventions and treaties that promote peace through practical disarmament measures. As a nation that has been a long- time supporter and activist for peace, we firmly believe in the importance of acquiring peace through the practice of non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMDs), conventional weapons, cluster munitions, and non-conventional weapons. We have an unwavering belief that the best way to address the issue of consolidating peace through practical disarmament would be for the UN to increase enforcement efforts of pre-existing conventions and treaties. We strongly assert the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty is essential. We propose the continued enforcement of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. We call on the international community to develop and enforce sanctions that can be placed upon states that refuse to follow conventions and treaties that consolidate peace through practical disarmament. Greater enforcement of these conventions and treaties will prevent future conflicts by making wars less attractive. | |
| Country: | Norway |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| We remain in great support of the Convention of the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stocking, and Use of Chemical Weapons and their Destruction and firmly back all attempts to implement it. In the Security Council meeting on chemical weapons on the 5th of December 2022, the Norwegian representative to the UN condemned any and all uses of chemical weapons, echoing the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWV), signed on the 13th of January 1999, which prevents the use, distribution, stockpiling, and production of chemical weapons. The United Nations charter states that the UN seeks to save future Generations from the carnage of war and its consequences, and this Convention will serve to aid in this goal. We strongly encourage the international community to support the implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stocking, and Use of Chemical Weapons and their Destruction if they are serious about preventing future wars and making current wars more challenging to sustain. | |
| Country: | Pakistan |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Pakistan is committed to promoting global peace and security through practical
disarmament measures. While recognizing the need for conventional deterrence,
Pakistan advocates for the reduction and eventual elimination of conventional weapons.
The country's position on disarmament is guided by several key principles. This includes
Regional Security; Pakistan believes that regional security is essential for global stability
and supports regional cooperation initiatives aimed at reducing tensions and promoting
disarmament. As well as Non-Proliferation of conventional weapons and supports
international efforts to prevent the transfer of them to non-state actors. Pakistan also
emphasizes the importance of transparency and verification mechanisms to ensure
compliance with disarmament agreements.
Pakistan works with the UN towards conventional disarmament and has ratified the treaties proposed by the Conventional Weapons Convention (CWC), whose goal is to establish rules and regulations governing the use of conventional weapons in armed conflict. Pakistan also supports the development and implementation of regional arms control agreements that prevent the stockpile and proliferation of conventional weapons as well as the transferring of them to conflict zones. Pakistan has signed treaties by the Ottawa Convention on Anti-Personnel Mines and the Convention on Cluster Munitions which both work towards prohibiting the use, stockpiling, and proliferation of certain types of conventional weapons. Pakistan also supports confidence building measures that reduce tension and increase transparency. Pakistan is committed to promoting global peace and security through practical disarmament measures. The country's position on conventional disarmament is guided by its commitment to regional security, non-proliferation, and transparency. By implementing the proposed steps, Pakistan can contribute to a more peaceful and secure international environment. | |
| Country: | Pakistan |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| For the Second Topic, the UN has played a crucial role in promoting the implementation
of the Convention on the Prohibition of the development, production, stockpiling, and use
of chemical weapons and on their destruction (CWC). The UN established the
Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to oversee the
implementation of the CWC and to verify compliance with its provisions. The UN has also
supported the OPCW in its efforts to promote international cooperation on matters
related to chemical weapons, including information sharing, capacity-building, and joint
investigations. Additionally, the UN has aided states in implementing the CWC and has
worked to address the challenges associated with its implementation, such as the illicit
trade in chemical weapons precursors and the use of chemical weapons in conflicts.
Pakistan is committed to the global prohibition of chemical weapons and has been a part of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) since 1977. The country has constantly supported the implementation of the CWC and has taken steps towards fulfilling its obligations under the treaty. As stated already Pakistan has had a long-standing commitment towards disarmament and non-proliferation. The country's decision to join the CWC displays its belief in the need to prevent the use of chemical weapons. Pakistan has also participated in various CWC-related activities, including the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpile and the establishment of national authorities to oversee the implementation of the treaty. Despite the CWC's achievements, challenges remain. The continued use of chemical weapons in some regions and the proliferation of chemical weapons pose serious threats to international peace and security. Pakistan's position on the implementation of the CWC is based on a few key points. Pakistan believes in full compliance with the CWC rules and has taken all measurements to ensure that they have implemented its provisions. Pakistan also supports the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), whose main goal is to prohibit chemical weapons and hold those who use it accountable. Finally, Pakistan believes in the destruction of all chemical stockpiles and has done so themselves, supporting other countries to do the same. | |
| Country: | Paraguay |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Paraguay believes in the strong importance of collective action to preserve
peace
in accordance with Article 1 of the UN Charter. We hold the highest respect for the United
Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), and are a signatory of all major international
treaties the UNODA has created. Treaties such as the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) and the Treaty
of
Ottawa are crucial for restricting dangerous weapons in modern conflicts. We are eager to
continue the long linage of international collaboration for disarmament. As technology creates
new threats to world peace, we must continue to build strong agreements to prevent any future
arms race or conflicts and preserve civilian life wherever possible.
We believe that the next major front for international disarmament is the use of autonomous weapons systems. In August, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a new international treaty restricting these types of weapons. These weapons systems lack oversight, can have issues of biased algorithms, and present the potential to cause another arms race. The Republic of Paraguay expresses our highest support for the Secretary General's call to action. Our primary goal for this conference is to work with like-minded nations to limit the danger these weapons pose to international peace. We are most excited to work with our fellow South American nations on this matter. This is the most important topic that must be addressed at the Conference. Additionally, we also wish to improve disarmament measures on all other forms of weapons. Our delegation believes that any international action that can be taken will represent a step in the right direction. We are eager to work with all delegations who share our values of peace and international security. In addition, we want to work again with our numerous fellow co-authors of A/RES/63/62 to reaffirm our support for the UN Secretary-General, and once again call for UN peacekeepers to include measures to stop illicit arms trade in their missions. | |
| Country: | Paraguay |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Paraguay strongly believes in the importance of ending the development,
production, stockpiling, and retention of chemical weapons, and completely supports all
prohibitions and regulations asserted by the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development,
Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons (CWC). Chemical weapons pose a serious
transnational threat, endangering every nation and its citizens worldwide. Chemical weapons do
not only cause widespread death and irreparable health damage, but they also cause significant
damage to the environment. Although the Convention has almost reached universal ratification
with 193 signatories, there is still an unknown number of chemical weapons remaining in
circulation.
We recognize that due to the threat of remaining chemical weapons, universal ratification of the Convention and adoption of necessary legislation is vital to ensuring the safety of all States and their citizens. We also recognize the vulnerability of less developed nations who lack resources for disaster control and may be devastated by an attack. We firmly support the prohibitions and obligations outlined by the CWC and recognize its value in ending chemical weapon use, primarily Article VII (national implementation measures) and Article IV (chemical weapon use and disposal). The provisions outlined in each article of the CWC are important for States Parties to comply with. Each obligation contributes to a more secure and harmonious world, free from the threat of chemical weapon use. We recognize that while the Convention instructs States Parties to adopt legislation that reflects its prohibitions and goals, many signatories have not taken action to do so. We urge all signatories who have not yet implemented the necessary legislation to do so promptly to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all. We urge all Member States to implement actions recommended by General Assembly Resolution 52/38. This resolution recognizes and implements provisions outlined by the CWC and urges Member States to comply. We are interested in taking the lead on resolutions that emphasize the need for universal ratification and adherence to the CWC. We are prepared and eager to collaborate with fellow Member States in the First Committee to ensure a secure world free from chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Philippines |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| It is the international community's responsibility to ensure in this new age of technology and weapons advancement that we do not allow the regrettable events of the past to repeat themselves. The humanitarian consequences of nuclear, chemical, and even small arms on countries throughout the world is an issue of profound importance and warrants urgent attention. Currently, the United Nations has various policies to target these threats through various disarmament measures. This all started with the "Establishment of a Commission to Deal with the Problems Raised by the Discovery of Atomic Energy" (A/RES/1/1). However, the Republic of the Philippines believes that strengthening some of the more effective policies in place will help promote increased cooperation among the member states and improve arms reduction on a global scale. To accomplish this, we suggest an approach beginning with the need to reinforce the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) by using the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as a steppingstone to better implementation. A multifaceted three-step proposal is recommended. Step one would begin by improving the multilateral dialogue and cooperation aspects of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty to set the groundwork for more nuclear and non- nuclear weapon states to be active in this conversation. Step two would consist of altering certain areas of concern within both the NPT and the TPNW that would incentivize these countries to co-sponsor the treaty. Finally, step three improves verification measures to ensure co-sponsoring member states abide by the regulations and prohibitions set in place by the treaty. The Philippines urges member states to join this initiative to continue increased efforts of global disarmament. | |
| Country: | Philippines |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of the Philippines is dedicated to its commitment to global security regarding the non-proliferation of chemical weapons. Currently, the United Nations has established the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and has been advocating for the complete destruction of chemical weapons. The Philippines truly believes in the CWC and has been a state party since 1995. Regardless of the strong framework put forth through the CWC there are still challenges with the implementation. The Philippines stresses the importance of addressing these challenges through international cooperation, transparency, and stronger verification mechanisms. The Philippines calls on member states to follow the recommendations of the S/RES/1540, stating that all states should withhold from any form of support to any nation or non-state actors involved in the development, manufacturing, possession, transportation, or use of chemical weapons. The Philippines advocates for the strengthening of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons verification mechanisms. This must be done to continue to detect and deter the development of chemical weapons. Finally, the Philippines has passed the Chemical Weapons Prohibition Act (CWPA) to prohibit the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons and urges Member States to consider this type of domestic regulatory framework. | |
| Country: | Poland |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The world is entering a page in history that is growing in length with the list of violence occurring, indicated by global defense spending jumping 6.4%. Terror attacks from non-state actors have gone on the rise in recent years, with a 22% increase in deaths, and especially in Africa, where over half of the deaths from terror occur. Peace must be achieved but not at all costs. General disarmament is one measure that has the potential to solve the problem, however, it is not infallible. The Republic of Poland believes that peace through means of disarmament is possible, so long as it is equitable and the law is adhered to. Poland believes in peace through law. While Poland has contributed to global disarmament, the Republic of Poland recognizes it has failed to achieve peace in the current climate. To this end, Poland believes that for the time being, the focus of the world should be moving for the disarmament of non state actors, rogue states, and other armed threats to stability, with a slower but steady process as well for more stable actors to decrease the risk that they could face when disarming. The Republic of Poland vehemently believes in the right to a Member State's self defense, and shall make no measures to prevent that capability of peaceful Member States. Poland believes that active defense measures should be made collaboratively between Member States to act as a proactive preparation against rogue states that are more inclined to violence, as well as international cooperation to actively disarm and, if need be, dissolve non-state actors by force. The use of existing alliances to move towards Poland sees it necessary to achieve peace, and is prepared to cooperate with member states to create whatever series of networks and collaborative efforts necessary to deter and prevent violence, including using existing frameworks. The Republic of Poland believes in the United Nations charters, and all measures signed that work to ensure peace and prevent violence. The spread and growth of violence is seen by Poland as counter intuitive towards many other goals of the United Nations, and sees the propagation of peace as a requirement to achieve the various goals of the UN which Poland also stands for. Disarmament is one means to achieve peace, but it must not deny peaceful states their ability to defend themselves | |
| Country: | Poland |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The issue of chemical weapons is critical for global security and public health, thus there is an urgent need for international mechanisms to eliminate these weapons; failure to address the issue could result in increased use in conflicts, proliferation to non-state actors, and humanitarian crises. Significant progress has been made, including the establishment of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) in 1993 and the formation of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which has proven effective but faces challenges, particularly in conflict zones with no oversight. Resolutions 1540, 2118, and 2235 affirm the ongoing commitment to disarmament, and Poland has actively supported these efforts through financial contributions, participation in OPCW conferences, and domestic legislation that aligns with the CWC. Moving forward, Poland believes two key steps are necessary: first, to strengthen multilateral cooperation by enhancing funding and technical assistance for verification and compliance efforts, and second, to implement regional disarmament initiatives that focus on capacity-building for nations dealing with dual-use chemicals, thereby emphasizing transparency and a collective commitment to disarmament. | |
| Country: | Qatar |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures is a practical way that can
promote peace through reduction and the control of conventional weapons. This practical
measure is a method to improve the safety of the people and improve security in the state
We firmly believe that the consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures is essential for maintaining peace in the state and outside and is essential for maintaining global stability. As a small state we highly believe in peace and security and we recognize that disarmament must be practical and inclusive due to states with varying military capacities and security concerns. We are a state that is committed to multilateralism and cooperation and believe this can lead to effective agreements between states with varying militaristic approaches. We have been part of many conventions and treaties that deal with disarmament and international security such as the Hague and Geneva Conventions and have signed treaties such as the Arms Trade Treaty and the Convention on Cluster Munitions. We are a part of the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs and believe it plays a pivotal role in promoting transparency and peace. Promoting transparency and peace is crucial for reducing tensions in the disarmament process. To effectively tackle the threats of non-state actors acquiring conventional arms, we urge states to enhance the treaties we have ratified to address disarmament. We call for the international community to prioritize these practical measures that promote disarmament and international security. We emphasize the need for action to be able to maintain peace and promote transparency. Together, we can build a more secure world by enhancing transparency cooperation, and accountability in disarmament efforts. | |
| Country: | Qatar |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Throughout the last century of conflict, chemical weapons have proven to be a dangerous and even catastrophic tool used in warfare across the world. Chemical weapons gained popularity and saw an increase in use during World War 1 in which agents such as chlorine and mustard gas were used on the battlefields. These weapons caused substantial casualties at the time raising attention to the importance of regulating and verifying their use, creation, and stockpiling. Following World War 1 these weapons advanced into more more dangerous substances such as nerve agents all the while being produced and stockpiled in mass by many countries. Despite chemical weapons flying under the radar of concern for some time due to the importance of the cold war and nuclear disarmament, great strides began to be made to control, regulate and verify these weapons. The CWC (chemical weapons convention) is the main governing body in the effort to control these weapons. The CWC requires signatories to refrain from using chemical weapons, destroy stockpiles and disable production facilities. We are signatories to the CWC, supporting their efforts in the matter. Additionally, we identify with the OPCW (organization for the prohibition of chemical weapons) and their efforts to take these principles into action, verifiably destroying stockpiles and production of these weapons in member states. We also assist the OPCW in efforts to adapt and innovate amidst the ever- changing environment of chemical weapons and their advancement. This includes handling new threats such as cyber security and drone attacks regarding chemical weapons. We also seek solutions to current problems such as Israel's attacks on the Gaza strip involving chemical weapons, urging them to cease and join the efforts of the CWC. | |
| Country: | Republic of Korea |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Consolidating peace through practical disarmament measures would include reducing and
controlling the number of conventional weapons to ensure global security. There had been
some adjustments to disarmament between the first two World Wars, but the adjustments were
very limited. Before World War ll, there were the Washington and Naval Conferences that mainly
focused on naval arms, but then a few years later the Geneva Protocol of 1925 was constructed.
The Geneva Protocol of 1925 was constructed to ensure the limitations of weapons(both
chemical and biological). Although the Geneva Protocol was not that influential, the United
Nations did take away a few ideas they would then pursue.
After the Second World War, more advisory was insisted on nuclear weapons, which resulted in new restrictions to ensure there would not be a Third World War. These restrictions included The First Special Session of Disarmament, SSOD-ll, and SSOD-lll. With the help of these steps, this created the United Nations Office of Disarmament. (UNODA) The UNODA was reformed in the late 1990s to create a better system with disarmament to ensure there has been a dissolution with a need for compliance. UNODA has taken over many treaties such as the Ottawa Treaty, Convention of Cluster Munitions, and Convention on Certain Convention Weapons. These treaties were very beneficial to the banning of various weapons such as incendiary weapons, mines, and weapons with fragmentation effects. The United Nations Office of Disarmament continues to ban the use of weapons such as nuclear or chemical but mainly focuses on peace worldwide. The UNODA uses different data software such as the United Nations Register of Convention Arms, Repository of Military Confidence, and Military Expenditure. These data software help the UNODA to help eliminate the number of new weapons being developed. | |
| Country: | Republic of Korea |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Sanctions against countries in violation of the chemical weapons convention
Since World War II, the UN has seen a large amount of success in regulating the amount of chemical weapons around the globe. According to the UN, their resolutions and regulations on this category of weaponry have resulted in 98% of the world's chemical weapons stockpiles. This is an area of disarmament where the UN has particularly excelled, as other efforts on nuclear disarmament have not seen the success they would have wanted. But, while the chemical weapons convention of 1997 has succeeded in mostly banning chemical weapons, certain countries like Syria have violated these protocols throughout the last decade. Thus, we are in favor of advocating for sanctions against the states in violation of these protocols. Due to the brutality and incivility of the effects of chemical weapons, we argue that the harshest measures of enforcement must be employed in order to seek full compliance, as these human rights abuses must not be allowed to occur. Expanding investigations to ensure compliance with the chemical weapons ban While many countries are in compliance with the chemical weapons treaty, countries such as Russia and North Korea have been accused of using chemical weapons in addition to Syria's egregious violation of the chemical weapons ban during their civil war. It is our opinion that funding needs to be increased for inspections of countries' weapons facilities to determine whether they are in possession of any banned substances. As was noted previously, 98% of the world's chemical weapons have supposedly been destroyed. However, we must ensure that no new chemical weapons are manufactured and the remaining 2% are not in use or destroyed. Thus, the United Nations and the international community should fund inspections as needed in order to prevent any future human rights abuses from occurring. | |
| Country: | Romania |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| One of the longest-lasting and largest topics of discussion in the United Nations has been the topic of disarmament. Developed almost simultaneously with the philosophy of Mutually-Assured Destruction (MAD), the concept of disarmament is a radical one. Many states do not want to give up their weapons for fear of being seen as weak and vulnerable, but if everyone dismantles their weapons, there is nothing "strong" to appear weak against. For these reasons, Romania supports the continued multilateral dialogue on global disarmament across all weapons categories. Arms races do nothing to assuage the concerns of the citizens whose lives we have been charged with protecting. They do not provide anything of value to global society, and they should have no place in societies of the future. Romania, as both an EU and NATO member state, ascribes to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), the Biological Weapons Conventions (BWC), the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), among others. Romania would also like to acknowledge the increasing presence of autonomous weaponry, and believes that regulatory frameworks should be established to prevent unchecked development of these munitions. While Romania acknowledges that sovereign states ultimately have the right to defend themselves, we believe that it is in the best interests, not only of individual member states, but also globally, to achieve disarmament as quickly as is feasibly possible. We look forward to the continuing conversations with fellow delegations, and hope to reach a solution that works for all states. | |
| Country: | Romania |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Despite many efforts otherwise, the proliferation of chemical weapons continues around the globe. Although all weapons bring severe harm to the global community, chemical weapons are particularly insidious due to their long-lasting and wide-reaching effects. Chemical weapons have been used to massacre peaceful communities, bring destruction to agricultural land, and disrupt the economies of the places they are utilized. For these reasons, along with many others, Romania strongly condemns the use of chemical weapons and urges the nations of the UN to continue to strive for non-proliferation of chemical weapons. Romania is very familiar with chemical weapons and their consequences, as a weapons development program was active under former leader Nicolae Ceausescu. These weapons were sold to the former USSR and likely used against civilian populations. This is a stain on Romania's history, and we reiterate that we are firmly opposed to the continuing spread of chemical weapons. Since re-democratization, Romania has made it a priority to push for multilateral resolutions that limit the development, production, and export of chemical weapons. We support stronger enforcement of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), and support strengthening the Organization for the Prevention of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). We also support the continued implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC), as these weapons are often developed jointly with chemical weapons. Romania encourages fellow sovereign states to continue their commitments to these conventions and looks forward to drafting new resolutions to try and curb the development and spread of new chemical weapons; and to reaching compromises to dismantle existing weapons. | |
| Country: | Russian Federation |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The movement of arms to global conflicts is an invisible enemy that seems to permeate existing tensions and create access to unrestricted proliferation. This trafficking creates, within preexisting conflicts, further distress for communities already struggling, and prevents the necessity of nations to resolve conflicts by furthering their ability to continue fighting. The existence of this Committee, the existence of the Security Council, and of the United Nations itself are testament to how important peaceful conflict resolution is and to why this trafficking is so dangerous. When warfare has commenced, no military will cease its fighting simply for the sake peace. Such goals have already been perceived as having passed. What truly causes the need for peaceful conflict resolution is the inability to continue fighting. Once a combatant has used all available resources, they face no other choice than to resort to negotiation, compromise, and communication that will save lives and cease destruction. The moving of weapons into warzones does not further the interest of peace, it furthers the interests of those who benefit from war. Combatants will not stop fighting without a reason. They will fight until they cannot or until there is nothing less to conquer, destroy, and fight. As expressed in Resolution 2171 (2014), it is within the interest of all nations to prevent outside weapons and arms from infiltrating wars. It is the position of the Russian Federation to further the prevention of the trafficking and trade of weapons into conflicts and warzones according to the intention of international law. | |
| Country: | Russian Federation |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The use of chemical weapons in warfare has provided a unique challenge to the international community since its dawn in its destructive and cruel waves over the trenches of the First World War. For this, the UN's establishment of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and the Organization of the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) have allowed the nations of the globe to aspire to a world where chemical weapons are not used or needed. It has allowed cooperative efforts among the nations through trust and goodwill to peacefully relinquish not only these arms but also their desire to hold and use such arms. Such organization is integral to achieving a less cruel and more secure world. However, this organization, as with all organizations of the global community's peace and security efforts, is only effective and legitimate with the consent of the nations whose arms are to be relinquished and whose industries will be regulated, monitored, and controlled by this organization for the express purpose of good will and gaining the trust of the international community. This regulation is not so simple for the smaller nations with a developing economy and a growing production. These regulations and oversight can unintentionally, or intentionally if abused out of malice, stymie the growth of a nation. Schedule III chemical weapons are not like bullets, or guns, or blades, or bombs. Their most prolific and common purpose of existence is the simple consequences of modern agriculture, industrial production of goods, and the reality of a nation that is in the process of becoming prosperous, a process that all nations understand whether having already experienced such process or currently living such an endeavor. It is the position of the Russian Federation that the spirit of the OPCW and CWC must be upheld, and not target a country for their legal productivity. | |
| Country: | Rwanda |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Republic of Rwanda recognises that the world is increasingly volatile, and it is more
important than ever to bring practical peace disarmament measures throughout the
international community. The discussion around disarmament is more than measures to
protect humanity around countries that have potential and those that possess nuclear
weapons inventory. Conventional weapons are the most common weapons that impact
communities. As global military spending reached a record high of 2.44 trillion US dollars
in 2023, it is more important than ever that the international community works together
to protect humanity.
The work done previously by the United Nations Office on Disarmament Affairs has been monumental in practical disarmament measures. However, when the international community solely focuses on transparency measures, the goals set out by practical disarmament measures are limited. Rwanda recognises the importance that transparency and building trust has on the role of disarmament. However, Rwanda supports the deepening and widening of practical disarmament measures. Following conflicts, a community is left to piece itself back together with the threat of more violence from leftover conventional arms but also ex-soldiers. To keep sustained peace for disarmament, Rwanda believes that Member States should turn to the value of communities. Values held by communities can help with practical disarmament measures through Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration (DDR) Programmes. Currently, there are 149 DDR programmes across 54 countries. Rwanda has seen benefits from DDR programmes through the creation of the Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC). Following the creation of RDRC in 1997, the RDRC has helped support the reintegration of more than 70,000 ex-combatants. Member States should allow for the growth and development of new opportunities during partnerships towards practical disarmament measures for all Member States. | |
| Country: | Rwanda |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation from the Republic of Rwanda, as sitting members to the executive council
of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, plans to support new
opportunities and growth through safe and transparent transport of dual-use chemicals
and destruction of chemical weapon stockpiles. Chemical weapons pose a profound
international threat that transcends national borders and affects global security, health,
and environmental stability. The use of chemical weapons can destabilize entire regions,
leading to conflicts that spill over into neighboring countries, while also having an
environmental effect on countless states. As global stakeholders, Rwanda increasingly
recognizes the importance of chemical safety in fostering international security and
development and aims to play a pivotal role in advancing these initiatives within the
OPCW framework. With the continuation of the advancement of the OPCW, Rwanda has
supported the first large-scale, hands-on emergency response simulation CHEMEX Africa.
Assisting to this emergency prepared response programme Rwanda has shown initiative
in promoting transparency and collaboration among member states.
Rwanda helps to advance its vision 2050 by creating more awareness towards how chemical sciences play a role in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and environmental management. By enhancing chemical education, CHEMEX Africa can help cultivate a skilled workforce capable of driving innovation and productivity. Rwanda promotes the national implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention through the OPCW Africa Programme, collaborating with member states and fostering CWC visibility. As a nation, Rwanda has experienced the devastating impacts of violence and conflict, we recognize the profound humanitarian, environmental, and security implications associated with the use of chemical weapons. Rwanda is committed to upholding international norms and treaties aimed at the prohibition and elimination of such weapons. Rwanda calls to continue with promoting programmes within the OPCW to support new opportunities and growth through safe and transparent use of dual-use chemicals. | |
| Country: | Saudi Arabia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Middle East stands out as one of the most significant markets for arms globally, largely due to persistent geopolitical tensions and conflicts that have plagued the region for decades. Recent analyses indicate that imports of major arms by European states surged by an astonishing 94 percent between the periods of 2014-2018 and 2019-2023. Among the world's largest arms importers from 2019 to 2023, are five countries: India, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Ukraine, and Pakistan. The Kingdom's approach to arms imports is rooted in a strategy focused on regulating sales to not only bolster its national defense capabilities but also to contribute to regional stability. Saudi Arabia's government maintains that responsible arms sales are essential for enhancing its military infrastructure, enabling the Kingdom to effectively respond to perceived threats from regional adversaries, including Iran and various non-state actors. While the Kingdom seeks to fortify its defense mechanisms, it is equally committed to promoting a regulated arms trade, advocating for transparency and accountability in transactions. The Kingdom participates in various conventions and groups aimed at establishing frameworks that promote responsible arms management, and stress the importance of cooperation among Middle Eastern nations to achieve collective security objectives. Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia advocates for a balanced and regulated arms trade that prioritizes both national and regional security. The kingdom emphasizes the importance of collaborative measures that align with international norms and regulations, ensuring that arms transfers are conducted responsibly and transparently. By promoting a disciplined approach to arms trade, Saudi Arabia aims to enhance its defense capabilities while simultaneously fostering an environment that mitigates conflict and supports peace initiatives across the Middle East. | |
| Country: | Saudi Arabia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia works toward the implementation of the regulations for the complete banishment and destruction of chemical weaponry. Chemical weaponry is a chemical, or any equipment designed to weaponize chemicals, used with the intention to cause harm or death through its toxicity. There are multiple nerve agents each being extremely dangerous and causing casualties. The nation works toward this, alongside other major advancements within the Vision 2030 plan. The country works with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in support of their cause, alongside the United Nations' other member states. The Kingdom also itself does not possess any chemical nor nuclear weaponry, and wishes that other nations within the Middle East follow these guidelines. The member state prioritizes all aspects of the Vision 2030 plans, and especially in taking the initiative to have a completely nuclear-free zone specifically within the Middle East. Vision 2030is a very comprehensive and extensive plan that the nation is aiming to achieve because of the current state of the nation and globally, due to the increase in terrorism, conflicts amongst neighboring countries, and the growing effects of climate change. With the OPCW, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is also working with the Chemical Weapon Convention (CWC). Each of these organizations guides the nation in determining what is a chemical weapon, and how it must be prohibited in order to promote the security of member states, within the United Nations. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia intends to stand as a beacon of peace, as well as an inspiration for how other nations should follow the regulations as well as the complete destruction of stock piling these chemical weapons in order to promote peace amongst countries. | |
| Country: | Senegal |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Senegal's international stance on public disarmament underlines its commitment to the promotion of world peace and security and protection of human rights. While being active in participation in international and regional efforts against disarmament, Senegal actively supports the UN and AU in trying to regulate the spread of arms. As a signatory to landmark treaties like the NPT, the Chemical Weapons Convention, and the Biological Weapons Convention, whose strong pillars call for the outright elimination of WMDs, there has never been an easy way out of this legally binding obligation. Additionally, Senegal supports the ATT on the international stage, which regulates the international trade in conventional arms in order to prevent illegal transfers of these weapons. It is also a party to a number of regional initiatives to control the dissemination of SALW in West Africa through the ECOWAS Convention. On the regional level, Senegal has played a key role in promoting peace and security within the African Union and in the Economic Community of West African States, including efforts to combat arms trafficking and reductions of military expenditures. The Senegalese policy regarding disarmament also deals with its humanitarian one: protection of civilians in armed conflicts and alleviation of the humanitarian consequences due to misuse of arms. Senegal is also an active promoter of disarmament in relation to its linkage with human rights, such as the Ottawa and Oslo Conventions banning landmines and cluster munitions, respectively. Senegal also relates disarmament to sustainable development; it believes that a decrease in armament is needed for the fulfillment of the UN SDGs pertaining to peace, justice, and strong institutions. Thus, Senegal tries to achieve better living conditions that may ensure more peaceful and developed coexistence on the national and international levels through public awareness and with the help of civil society. | |
| Country: | Senegal |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Senegal's stance is unwavering and strong in the rejection of the use, development, and proliferation of chemical weapons. A party to the Chemical Weapons Convention that came into force in 1997, Senegal fully supports international efforts to eliminate chemical weapons and to avoid their usage in wars. The CWC is the first multilateral treaty in disarmament that comprehensively prohibits the development, production, and stockpiling of chemical weapons and their destruction. Senegal ratified this treaty, and hence, it placed its national policy into conformity with international norms that seek protection for civilians and combatants alike against the devastating humanitarian impact of chemical weapons. The country is committed to the full implementation of the provisions of the CWC and actively participates in efforts at strengthening the framework of the said convention. Senegal strongly advocates the universalization of the CWC, encouraging all states, particularly those outside the treaty, to join in prohibiting chemical weapons. Use of such weapons, in its view, constitutes a violation of international law and the principles of human dignity and human rights. It is on the basis of this that Senegal continues to strongly condemn all uses of chemical arms in armed conflicts and appeals to the international community for their persecution through mechanisms provided by the CWC and the United Nations. The Government of Senegal reiterates that international cooperation and transparency are at the heart of disarmament involving chemical weapons, since such an important process is impossible without concerted action by States. The active participation of Senegal will be an assurance of its contribution towards a world free from chemical weapons, with increased security in promotion of humanitarian goals, as contemplated under international law. | |
| Country: | Slovenia |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The United Nations recorded more than 33,000 civilian deaths in armed conflict in 2023, a number that has increased by 72 percent from 2022. Practical measures to advance disarmament are essential to protect civilians and promote peace. Slovenia has supported initiatives to implement and strengthen restrictions on conventional weapons, notably by being a contracting party to the Convention on Prohibition or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) and by being among the most active countries in the conclusion of the Ottawa Convention. Slovenia believes these treaty-based measures restricting certain types of conventional weapons are necessary for promoting peace, and recommends that similar measures be extended to autonomous weapons. Slovenia recommends expanding the scope of the Arms Trade Treaty to include these weapons to increase global stability and lower the dangers that these weapons pose to civilians. Slovenia also participates in international export regimes, such as the Wassenaar Arrangement, which attempts to increase transparency and responsibility in transferring conventional weapons. A key goal of these initiatives is to prevent such weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists. Slovenia recommends focus be put on suitable measures for more effective state control of conventional weapons and preventing illegal trafficking. Effective state control allows the upholding of the right of a state to defend itself, while also preventing weapons from reaching non-state actors, such as terrorists. With this in mind, Slovenia encourages promoting increased membership in initiatives that support the exchange of information on deliveries of conventional weapons to address the underlying causes of conflict. Only through such measures promoting disarmament and arms control can peace and security be maintained. | |
| Country: | Slovenia |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Slovenia calls for the continued prohibition of the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons. Since 1997, Slovenia has been a member of the CWC agreements, serving as the executive counsel for the program, vice chair of the Eastern European Regional Group, and board member of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW). Slovenia stands in solidarity with those who have been killed or harmed by the use of chemical weapons and supports all efforts to curb the use of these weapons for any reason. The destruction seen from these weapons throughout history and currently in Ukraine emphasizes its stance on the prohibition of all chemical weapons across the globe. To achieve this goal, Slovenia encourages the funding of programs such as OPCW and CWC to continue their work in providing information related to the use and manufacturing of these chemical weapons. We also encourage the continued expansion of the Centre for Chemistry and Technology to expand our knowledge on this dangerous chemical to help those whose deadly and devastating effects have been impacted. Furthermore, Slovenia proposes harsher sanctions to those who do not comply with the regulations implemented by the board, such is the case with Syria and Russia, as we believe that those who do not comply with the regulations are highly dangerous to the world's safety. To ensure the production of these weapons, Slovenia also calls for the creation of more in-depth investigations to determine the locations of chemical weapons as well as the use of INTERPOL to halt the illegal trade of these weapons. In conclusion, Slovenia once again calls for the prohibition of these deadly and barbarous weapons in all capacities, encourages heavier sanctions and repercussions for those who violate these regulations, and supports the growth of research and education about these weapons to protect ourselves and our fellow UN members better. | |
| Country: | Spain |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Esteemed members of the United Nations, the pressing issue of nuclear proliferation continues to pose a grave threat to international security and stability, as we witness rising tensions around the globe and an alarming number of states pursuing nuclear capabilities. The Kingdom of Spain firmly believes in the necessity of a world free from nuclear weapons, advocating for comprehensive disarmament measures that prioritize dialogue and cooperation among nations. Our commitment is reflected in Spain's nuclear phase-out policy, which aims to shut down its current nuclear reactors by 2035, transitioning towards a 100% renewable energy system by 2050. As a signatory of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) since 1987, Spain remains dedicated to non-proliferation efforts and the promotion of disarmament. We must also recognize our historical context, including the deployment of U.S. nuclear weapons during the Cold War and the significant cleanup efforts following the accidental nuclear incident in 1966. These experiences reinforce our belief in the urgency of strengthening existing treaties and enhancing verification mechanisms. To effectively address the challenges of nuclear proliferation, we must foster an inclusive global dialogue that brings together both nuclear and non-nuclear states alike. We advocate the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its one of the crucial steps ensuring safe and peaceful uses of nuclear technology while preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. We urge you to join Spain in this critical endeavor to promote a safer, more secure world for all. By working together, we can achieve a future where the specter of nuclear conflict is replaced by cooperation and mutual respect among nations. | |
| Country: | Spain |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Kingdom of Spain holds the position of complete outlaw of chemical weapons as well as their proliferation. This includes the development, manufacturing, stockpiling, and distribution of chemical weapons. Sapin has been a dedicated member and alien of the OPCW bill which prohibited the actions of developing, manufacturing, distributing, and stockpiling of chemical weapons. A major pain point in this process is safe destruction, the proper dismantling of chemical weapons is often expensive and requires specialty facilities which can be a challenge for member states. In addition, other member states may be in violation of this treaty. Spain would like to propose a solution to these issues. With additional funding a program can be made to encourage member states to safely and cost effectively dispose of their chemical weapons. As well as sanctioning member sets that do not comply with the terms of previous traits. The kingdom of Spain holds the idea of a world free of chemical weapons in high regard and would be eager and willing to work with other member states who share are idea of a safe and prosperous future. | |
| Country: | Sri Lanka |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| In 2001, we requested assistance from the UN and the Department of Disarmament
Affairs to assist with our arms trafficking efforts. Recently, we reduced illicit arms from 658
to 325 from 2020 to 2021. This shows that we have significantly reduced the amount of
illicit arms that are brought into our country. While this number shows improvement, we
understand that there is still work that needs to be done. In 2024, we revitalized our
efforts to curb small arms and light weapons from entering our country with help from
the UN Office of Disarmament Affairs. We built armories to keep illegal weapons out of
the hands of criminals, that way citizens of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
will be safe from violence. We have decreased the number of illegal weapons in our
country and have also worked with UN to revitalize our efforts to disarm small arms and
light weapons.
The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka believes that disarmament of weapons is a key factor in creating peace. One way that we have done this is by signing Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons in 2023. Our minister of foreign affairs, M. U. M. Ali Sabry, said upon signing the treaty said that the treaty affirms our "long-standing commitment towards nuclear disarmament in favor of international peace and security."5. We believe strongly in our commitment to disarmament of all weapons. The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka vows to complete our obligations and to continue our efforts in disarming weapons in our country and around the world. We strongly believe that the best way to achieve peace is by disarming and seizing weapons to prevent conflicts from arising. We will continue to seize illegal weapons in our country and will continue our agreement on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. We support efforts from the United Nations to meet the goal of significantly reducing illicit financial and arms flows by 2030. | |
| Country: | Sri Lanka |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The delegation of Sri Lanka is supportive of the efforts by the General Assembly to continue
the implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production,
Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction, also known as the
Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). As a party to the CWC, Sri Lanka is committed to the
continued disarmament of chemical weapons through the destruction of chemical weapon
stockpiles and production facilities. While the delegation of Sri Lanka recognizes the major
progress that has been made in chemical weapon disarmament, with "100% of the chemical
weapons stockpiles declared by States Parties to the CWC hav[ing] been verifiably destroyed"
(Chemical Weapons : UNODA, n.d.), the delegation of Sri Lanka also notes additional
progress that must be made, especially regarding non-state actors and states non-party to the
CWC.
A crucial step that this assembly must take is to encourage the ratification of the CWC by all members of this chamber. All but four member states have ratified or acceded to the Convention, yet these remaining four present a significant obstacle in limiting chemical weapons use. As recently as 2023, the Israeli Defense Forces have faced accusations of using chemical weapons, specifically white phosphorus munitions, in Gaza (Wintour, 2023). While the government of Israel has denied these accusations, the potential for these actions by voting members of this organization constitute a threat to our goal of eliminating chemical weapons use, and the delegation of Sri Lanka believes that the United Nations should use all possible options to encourage and pressure the remaining member non-parties to ratify or accede to the CWC. By working towards the elimination of the production of chemical weapons by UN members, it will become increasingly difficult for non-State actors to obtain these weapons. The delegation of Sri Lanka also recognizes the need to increase monitoring of chemical weapons. Sri Lanka believes that the organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) must be further strengthened and empowered in order to ensure that it is capable of inspecting and monitoring the production and use of chemical weapons. The delegation of Sri Lanka supports increasing the power of OPCW to conduct inspections at known or suspected sites as well as improving its ability to monitor these sites through new technologies such as artificial intelligence, which OPCW considers a potential tool in advancing the implementation of the CWC (Global Conference on AI in CWC Implementation, n.d.). The delegation of Sri Lanka also encourages the member states of this organization to disincentivize known entities (state and non-state) from producing or using chemical weapons through the use of sanctions. In addition, incentives should also be implemented that encourage entities to fully declare their chemical weapon stocks. The delegation of Sri Lanka considers the Advancement of the Implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention essential to the protection of civilians during conflicts and a significant priority of this organization. | |
| Country: | State of Palestine (Observer) |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Palestinian delegation, albeit having only observer status within the United Nations, understands the intricacies of achieving peace via practical disarmament measures. The Palestinian people are facing what South Africa called GENOCIDE in a International Court of Justice case, wherein we are pleading for peace negotiations where disarmament would play a key role in ensure safety for the entire Middle Eastern region. While only attaining observer status, the Palestinian delegation has signed and ratified the Treaty on the Prohibitions of Nuclear Weapons, and was seen largely as a multilateral step in the right direction. The Palestinian people denounce and call for action against the claims made by Israel regarding the capability for nuclear warheads used in the Gaza Strip in November of 2023. The escalation of conflict is the exact opposite of the end goal for not only Palestine, but the rest of the world. Palestine is in the unique position to be at the forefront establishing peace via disarmament, which the delegation would gladly be the example for the rest of the Middle East to follow, starting with Israel and the war of our way of life. | |
| Country: | State of Palestine (Observer) |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| As the world stands witness to many types of violence and oppression, the Palestinian delegation furthers its commitment for a world free of chemical weapons to achieve global peace and stability. The State of Palestine has held a strong stance on the discernment and non proliferation of all weapons of mass destruction for decades. Despite holding observer status within the United Nations, The State of Palestine continues to play an active role in promoting peace and security. Becoming a signatory of the Chemical Weapons Convention in 2018 and participation in international conventions and groups further proves these efforts to maintain world peace and keep important issues on the world stage. The use of chemical weapons under any circumstances violates international law and is an independent threat to humanity. The stockpiling of such weapons is a direct result of failure to address underlying causes of conflict and only causes disproportional escalation of regional conflict. We have an obligation to prevent the horror, pain, and suffering associated with chemical warfare. We urge all member states to strengthen cooperation under the CWC, ensuring timely compliance, increased inspections, and support for states in eliminating chemical stockpiles | |
| Country: | Syrian Arab Republic |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Topic: Consolidation of Peace Through Disarmament
For the past 13 years, Syria has fought a long and bloody civil war. Throughout this conflict various nation-states have intervened to advance their agendas. These interventions have only prolonged the internal conflict and further disrupted our country. This has also occurred outside of Syria, where military interventions throughout the globe have destabilized regions creating conditions that have resulted in the spread of non state actors such as the Islamic State. . In order to promote peace and stability, it is our belief that nations should be more restrained with their military forces to prevent unnecessary conflict around the globe. It is our hope that the committee will address these needless actions which disrupt the efforts for peace. Alongside direct military intervention, foreign powers often distribute armaments to non state actors to advance their agendas. The proliferation of weapons in this manner empowers non-state actors who will often go on to destabilize and disrupt countries. It is our belief that the committee should see to strengthen the measures in place to minimize the spread of weapons. | |
| Country: | Syrian Arab Republic |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Over the past 11 years, Syria has made great strides to become compliant under OPCW
protocols. In late 2013 our chemical weapons stockpile was dismantled with surveillance by
members of the UN and international community.
Although we have dismantled our chemical weapons stockpile, we cannot help but feel outraged as the international community continues to doubt our commitment to following international law. Because of the West's failure to accept our status as compliant, we fear what steps the international community may take because of these false beliefs. Countries have been invaded over false allegations of weapons of mass destruction, and just this year our proud nation was attacked due to a nation misidentifying a building within our borders. In order to ensure the accuracy and improve confidence in the international investigations over alleged chemical weapons stockpiles and infrastructure, we will be suggesting to the assembly language that directs the findings of any international investigation to the UN Security Council for final confirmation of accuracy. | |
| Country: | Türkiye |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Since the inception of the United Nations (UN) one of our main goals as a body has been to ensure peace through disarmament measures. While this goal has stagnated at times Türkiye believes that it is now more important than ever to reestablish faith in the UNs ability to obtain and maintain peace. Türkiye has long supported goals for non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and nuclear material; welcoming the UNSC Resolution 1540 and regularly submitting reports from 2004 to 2020 to the 1540 committee. In the same realm of nuclear disarmament Türkiye has been an active member of the Conference of Disarmament (CD). Türkiye also fully supports UN actions to eradicate the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons (SALW). Türkiye has also thrown its weight behind several organizations and Export control regimes outside of the United Nations such as the Wassenaar Arrangement (WA), which aims to control exports of conventional weapons and dual-use equipment. The Republic of Türkiye believes that these outside factors are a crucial part of building a peaceful future and seeks to deepen relations with fellow Member States that feel likewise. At this time Türkiye supports further initiatives to prevent the proliferation of Nuclear weapons and will throw its weight behind any constructive dialogues that further this effort. More specifically we would like to push forward motions that would limit the development, use and stockpiling of anti-personnel mines as they leave nothing but destruction even after the conflict has ended. The plague of abandoned minefields continues to maim, dismember and kill all across the world and as conflicts continue to arise we must ensure that this plague does not spread further than where it already is and in time the issue may be eradicated.. We also wish to push for wider support of UN Resolutions on the matters of preventing the illicit trade of all small arms trading and any sensible regulations of Weapons of Mass Destruction so that we may build a cooperative future devoid of bloodshed. | |
| Country: | Türkiye |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Chemical weapons have been a blight on this world ever since they were first used in the trenches of the First World War. In recent years our neighbors to the east have been plagued by several chemical attacks and given the rise in conflicts seen in recent years we, as an international community, may see an increase in chemical attacks spreading across the world. This is wholly unacceptable in the modern world and we must do everything we can to deter this. This is why Türkiye has committed itself to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and its continued success. Türkiye signed into the CWC in 1997 and by extension became a member of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons(OPCW) and has been a faithful member ever since. In recent years Türkiye has aided in the funding of the ChemTech Centre in the Netherlands. This facility will serve as a platform for all CWC abiding nations to collaborate on all future goals regarding a chemical weapon-free future. The ChemTech facility will also act as a training facility for all nations furthering their own domestic efforts to rid themselves of the chemical menace that has haunted our world for too long. All this being said, Türkiye believes that, while great strides have been taken in the destruction of chemical weapons, the national body should impose harsher sanctions against Member States that violate the mission of the CWC, more specifically in regards to all Member States that have been confirmed to be involved in chemical attacks. All Member States who are actively involved in the idea of a chemical weapon-free future should demand that all chemical regimes should be held to the same standards as these unacceptable acts serve only to worsen humanitarian situations involved in conflict and increase tensions across the world. The Republic of Türkiye appreciates the steps taken to look into the incomplete declaration of chemical weapons submitted by chemically active Member States but too little has been done to deter these heinous acts from continuing in the future. That is why Türkiye in this assembly is looking to put into action stricter sanctions against all chemically equipped nations to help aid the CWC in its goal of the complete destruction of even the idea of a chemical attack. | |
| Country: | Thailand |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| On 6 October 2022, 37 people, 24 of them preschool kids, lost their lives in a gun and knife
attack at a childcare center in Nong Bua Lam Phu province. In the face of this tragedy, the
problem of firearms and light weapons taking away our loved ones remains. According to a
UN Human Rights Council Paper by the Special Rapporteur published in July of 2023,
Thailand traded nearly 30 million USD worth of arms direct to the Myanmar military.
However, due to restrictions of arms sales to restricted entities, arms dealers in Myanmar
have used phoenix companies, companies that carry out the same business as sanctioned
entities, among other strategies, to turn Thailand's legal trade into a million dollar illegal arms
trading business.
Thailand believes that in order to consolidate international peace the process of arms control and practical disarmament should be supported. Since the establishment of the UN Conventional Arms Registry (UNRCA) in 1992, Thailand has actively participated in the registry by providing information on the import-export of 7 types of conventional arms every year. Moreover, Thailand is the only country among ASEAN to report its military budget annually to the UN. We believe that transparency in country armament stockpiles will contribute to practical measures of disarmament and achieve peace post-conflict. To address the urgent need for enhancing peace through practical disarmament measures, we propose the following actions to strengthen regional security and safeguard our citizens. First, we recommend establishing a network for information-sharing among law enforcement, border control, and customs agencies to prevent, combat, and eliminate the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons across borders. Second, where necessary, we encourage the introduction, implementation, or reinforcement of regional and sub-regional laws, regulations, and administrative procedures. Third, we urge member states to promote the safe and effective management of stockpiles and security measures. Lastly, we support, where appropriate, national disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programs, particularly in post-conflict situations. By adopting these solutions, we are confident that the global community can make significant strides toward the consolidation of peace. | |
| Country: | Thailand |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| Thailand remains fully committed to the global prohibition of chemical weapons through
complete and effective implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).Thailand
has been a State Party to the CWC since 2002 and has taken robust steps ensure compliance
with its obligations. Through national legislation, such as the Chemical Weapons Act, Thailand
ensures that no chemical weapons are developed, produced, stored within its borders, and also
works closely with the Organisation for the Prohibition Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to meet its
reporting, inspection, and cooperation requirements.
Thailand supports the complete and timely destruction of all chemical weapons stockpiles globally, as well as enhanced international cooperation to ensure that all States Parties comply with their destruction obligations under the CWC. As a member of ASEAN, Thailand promotes regional collaboration to strengthen chemical safety and security. Thailand emphasizes the importance of capacity-building programs, particularly for countries with limited resources, to fully implement the CWC's provisions and ensure that chemical materials are not misused. To address challenges related to the risk of chemical weapons proliferation, Thailand proposes the establishment of Regional Chemical Security Task Forces. These task forces would focus on improving border controls, monitoring chemical shipments, and enhancing the tracking of chemical-related activities. Thailand also recommends conducting joint emergency response exercises to strengthen preparedness against chemical weapon attacks and promote regional cooperation. By implementing these practical solutions, Thailand believes the international community can prevent the misuse of chemicals and support the full realization of a world free of chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | Timor-Leste |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste strongly supports the idea of disarmament measures as the way to achieve lasting peace and security in the Southeast Asian region. At the same time, The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste recognizes the need for order- keeping structures within the country, which should definitely not be perceived as an increase in militarization by The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste's partners, but as a way how to maintain peace and order in the young country, recovering from security threats and disorder caused after its creation, trying to maintain its own internal peace after the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers in 2012. In addition, law enforcement mechanisms are necessary for the survival of The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste's democracy, future growth, prosperity and ability to provide Timor-Leste's citizens with access to all human rights. The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste is also deeply concerned about the instability of the Middle East and would be eager to engage in providing security and access to the ability to exercise all human rights by the citizens through joint peacekeeping missions in case of need, as The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste deeply recognizes the struggle of maintaining order in fragile states. | |
| Country: | Timor-Leste |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste has demonstrated its historic commitment to the various treaties prohibiting the development, production, stockpiling and use of chemical weapons and their destruction. The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste remains firmly committed to the Chemical Weapons Convention and is taking all measures to ensure that its obligations remain unquestioned. In addition, The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste is taking proactive measures to demonstrate the understanding of the level of destruction that chemical weapons possess by committing to submitting declaration regardless of chemical weapons as well as granting free assessment of inspections in case of need. In addition, 100% of chemical weapons stockpiles have been verifiably destroyed, which again underscores The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste's passionate commitment to the prohibition of chemical weapons possession. | |
| Country: | Ukraine |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| Between February 24, 2022, and July 31, 2024, 11,520 people, including 633 children, lost their lives due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. When will we declare that enough is enough and begin to implement resolutions that protect future generations from the horror of war rather than create larger ones? To establish peace, implementing practical disarmament measures is crucial for the sake of Ukraine and the sake of international community because Ukraine has suffered the consequences of the opposition's side in this war and reign of terror, and we have lost thousands of lives to crimes committed by firearms and other munitions by the opposing state. As for the international community, if we do not put a stop to the uncontrolled arming of nation-states during times of war and outside times of war, states will suffer the consequences by seeing the death toll rise due to weaponized crimes. According to UN Resolutions supported by implementations in our state legislation and the Ukrainian foreign ministry agreeing not to develop weapons of mass destruction, A/RES/1540 and A/RES/2117, disarmament entails reducing available weapons and limiting their distribution to prevent further conflict escalation and enable humanitarian actions. The main procedures, such as multilateral agreements, arms reduction treaties, and international oversight, aligned with UN Resolution A/RES/1325 on women, peace, and security, play a pivotal role in ensuring Compliance. Our nation-state, Ukraine, has taken the initiative in developing these NAPS into our nation's laws and continuing efforts to update them in alignment with the UN resolution. These initiatives should address not only state actors but also militias, aiming to curb the illegal arms trade and limit the proliferation of small arms. Peace-building programs like disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR), as noted in UN Resolution A/RES/242, are essential for reintegrating former combatants into society, reducing the likelihood of renewed violence. Success stories in Sierra Leone and Colombia show just how effective such approaches are. Bringing together disarmament with peace-building initiatives, anchored by key UN resolutions, creates a concrete foundation for lasting peace and reducing the devastating impact of armed conflict. To do that, Ukraine suggests all nations take it upon themselves to halt all development of weapons of mass destruction. | |
| Country: | Ukraine |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| In today's world, many nations, including ours, face war, insecurity, and hardship. It is important now more than ever that we unite to create peace and address problems like humanitarian crises and geopolitical instability. When it comes to the use of chemical weapons, this remains an inhumane threat to global peace. When it comes to Ukraine's convention on the prohibition of chemical weapons, Ukraine aims to have these weapons of mass destruction eliminated, as well as having other nations commit to the disarmament and destruction of chemical weapons. Ukraine fully supports our commitment to the organization for the prohibition of chemical weapons (OPCW) and has taken different steps to ensure prevention concerning our future developments. A more recent violation where chemical weapons were used in Syria just proves that we must take the necessary steps globally to enforce global peace. With the UK's support in developing advanced technologies like DragonFire, we can better protect its people and land. With backup from the UK and even other allied countries of Ukraine through collaboration with one another to enforce international frameworks, we can ensure that we can help prevent future crises, especially the ones involved in chemical weapons and any other inhumane weapons. These advancements can give Ukraine a foot up in the ongoing conflict. As the war continues to claim lives in Ukraine and beyond, it is more important than ever to put an end to this suffering, especially along the Russia-Ukraine border. Ukraine needs more aid and military support to stop the violence. Advanced technology could shift the balance of power and help Ukraine gain the upper hand. With adequate support, we believe peace can be maintained. Ukraine remains committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution and avoiding further violence. However, we also support providing military aid from our allies to ensure long-term stability. We prompt other international partners to contribute to these efforts to build lasting peace. By bringing forth technology, aid, and collaboration, we can achieve the stability that Ukraine and many other nations desperately need. Ukraine aims to focus on complex chemical weapons to keep peace and hopes to create strategies globally to illuminate chemical weapons around the world. | |
| Country: | United Arab Emirates |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
| Paper text: | |
| The United Arab Emirates is committed to working with the international community to promote peace and keep the world safe from global proliferation threats. We do not possess any nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons programs. In fact, the United Arab Emirates has been a non-nuclear weapons state since 1996. Our civil nuclear cooperation agreement with the U.S. is considered the "Gold Standard" for nonproliferation. Additionally, our desire for a transparent and peaceful program is vividly depicted through the strategies, principles, and commitments outlined in the UAE civilian nuclear energy policy. We are a partner nation on the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism. We cooperate with the Missile Technology Control Regime and are a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency. In order to establish true peace, disarmament is necessary for not just one, but every country. By encouraging dialogue, fostering international cooperation, and investing in sustainable development, we can create a safer world for future generations. We call upon all nations to join us in these efforts, recognizing that disarmament is not just a goal but a pathway to enduring peace and security. Together, we can build a world where the well-being of all humanity is prioritized, and where peace prevails over conflict. In order to reach this end goal, the United Arab Emirates proposes the continued integration of disarmament measures into international policies and the support the implementation of educational programs surrounding the importance of this pressing issue. | |
| Country: | United Arab Emirates |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
| Paper text: | |
| The United Arab Emirates recognizes the need for ongoing efforts made towards peace. The United Arab Emirates reiterates its condemnation for the use of chemical weapons by any and all people. We have expressed our disapproval of the use of chemical weapons that has taken place in Syria. The use of chemical weapons threatens the stability of the region of which we are located. Furthermore we would like to express our concern over the usage of white phosphorus and similar weapons. We celebrate efforts that have already been made in order to eliminate the use of chemical weapons such as the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons destroying 99% of declared chemical weapons. Holding to that standard of which is set, we do not possess any chemical weapons. In addition to this we do not facilitate nor participate in any programs aimed at the development and production of chemical weapons. The United Arab Emirates is committed to pursuing a chemical weapon free world. | |
| Country: | United Kingdom |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
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| The persistent threat of nuclear weapons is gravely concerning. While their use has been
limited, the existence of these arsenals continues to endanger global security and stability. It
is imperative for the international community to unite in the pursuit of eradicating chemical
weapons and to fulfill our commitments to non-proliferation while embarking on a path
toward partial nuclear disarmament. Only through collective action can we hope to secure a
safer future for all of humanity.
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) has been a strong advocate for global security and disarmament, playing a leading role in international efforts to limit the impact and potential dangers of chemical and nuclear weapons. The Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which the UK helped establish as a signatory, remains a cornerstone in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. We continue to support the International Atomic Energy Agency in safeguarding nuclear facilities and materials globally, maintaining transparency, and ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Since the 1960s, we have considerably reduced our nuclear arsenal and consistently supported international agreements such as the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. We have actively participated in nuclear security summits to prevent nuclear terrorism and safeguard nuclear materials. Arms control measures are required for the production and storage of nuclear weapons in accordance with the UN charter and NPT. Member States must strictly adhere to the principles of holding nuclear stockpiles solely as a deterrent and ensure that non-proliferation is emphasised and practised by other Member States. This can only be achieved through diplomatic resolutions and discussions on the global stage. The United Kingdom remains committed to actively participating in such efforts to endorse non- proliferation and promote a world free of the threat of nuclear warfare. | |
| Country: | United Kingdom |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
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| The catastrophic impact of chemical weapons is evident when examining history and
persists even today, resulting in unimaginable suffering. These weapons have robbed
countless innocent individuals of their right to breathe clean air.
The United Kingdom fully supports the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), which has significantly contributed to the elimination of chemical weapons. The United Kingdom has destroyed its chemical weapons stockpiles and remains strongly committed to enhancing international norms against chemical weapons. Moving forward, the United Kingdom believes it is crucial to build upon the success of the CWC by developing strategies to address the growing threat posed by non-state actors and ensure compliance with these treaties. Support for global disarmament has been a core principle for the United Kingdom, having taken significant steps to eliminate chemical weapons and prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. As a founding signatory of the CWC, the United Kingdom completed the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpile in 2007, being within full compliance with our CWC obligations. We continue to collaborate closely with the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), contributing to global efforts to investigate and prevent the use of chemical weapons. Domestically, we have enacted stringent legislation to prevent chemicals from being misused for weapons development. The United Kingdom stands tall in emphasising transparency, international cooperation, and the reinforcement of global norms to ensure both national and global security for all. The United Kingdom has established industrial regulations to limit the production and distribution of chemicals used in chemical weaponry and looks forward to providing resources and knowledge to other Member States to establish watchdogs in their respective chemical industries. OPCW mandates to verify and monitor compliance of Member States to CWC also need to be strengthened via improved investigative abilities to ensure the eradication of chemical weapons. | |
| Country: | United States of America |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
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| The United States is firmly committed to international disarmament and non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, while maintaining international security. The nation has and will continue to pursue agreements for a less violent, peaceful world. To achieve this, the United States has long supported global disarmament measures, especially those pertaining to the proliferation of nuclear weapons. As one of five nuclear-weapon states to sign the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), the nation continues to promote cooperation on peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Since the signing, the United States has reduced its nuclear stockpile by over 80%, setting an example for others to follow. While the United States values global peace and security through the limiting of nuclear weapons, it also recognizes the need to maintain a stockpile to ensure national security. The nation does not support a treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, but has a goal of reducing the role of nuclear weapons in national defense programs. Additionally, the United States has made strides to reduce the volume of radioactive materials used in production to further the effort to foster and maintain peace. The minimization of global arsenals, as the United States has done, is essential. We are also committed to ensuring the safe storage of stockpiled small arms and ammunition. This is critical to preventing these deadly weapons from falling into the wrong hands of militant groups. Ultimately, the United States supports a step-by-step approach to disarmament, allowing nations to both contribute to world peace and maintain national security. | |
| Country: | United States of America |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
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| The United States has long been a supporter of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), being one of the first nations to sign and ratify the Treaty in 1997. The nation is committed to meeting its obligations under the Treaty, having destroyed the entirety of its declared chemical weapons stockpile and nearly all stockpile sites by 2023. The remaining sites will be destroyed by 2026. The nation implements and encourages other countries to dispose of these weapons in a manner that maintains environmental integrity and public health. This includes the prohibition of discarding weapons or chemical byproducts in water or by burial. Thus, the destruction within the nation is overseen by the United States Army and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The United States hopes that this national elimination of these weapons and the international discourse surrounding the prohibition of chemical and biological weapons will pave the way for other states to follow with complete destruction. The U.S. has expressed concerns about the potential for non-state actors, such as terrorist organizations, to acquire chemical weapons. It emphasizes the importance of strengthening international mechanisms to prevent the proliferation of materials and technologies that could be used to produce chemical weapons. We believe that the use or stockpiling of chemical weapons has no place in the United States of America or any of the member nations' societies. The United States condemns such actions as a violation of international law and a threat to global security. In addition to disarmament efforts, the U.S. supports the continued international application of the CWC to prevent the re-emergence of chemical weapons, especially as global conflict escalates. | |
| Country: | Uruguay |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
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| The UN's central goal, in the wake of the destruction brought on by World War 2, has always been to provide a place where nations can cooperate to find solutions to issues facing the international community. However, cooperation is impossible in a climate of constant war and conflict. It is undeniable that a climate of peace is not only better, but necessary to ensure cooperation and equal representation for all nations. To foster peace, the UN is committed to practical disarmament measures. This means respecting a state's right to a military and self-sustained security, while ensuring any state's military security does not come at the cost of another state's peace, security, or stability. This also means that for disarmament to remain practical, it must be practiced and agreeable by all nations, despite vastly different military capabilities. We plan on fostering this cooperation by continuing to promote trust and confidence-building measures within the international community, with the firm belief that transparency on the size of state's military capabilities allows for states to be more trusting of one another and inspires the confidence that prevents arms racing and wars. The UN also looks to address the many emerging technologies that have the capacity of affecting both how wars are waged, and how disarmament can be ensured. This includes technology that has the potential to help foster trust, such as satellite pictures of military installments, and emerging tech that could possibly change how wars are waged and may need to be limited by the international community such as artificial intelligence programs and their potential to create lethal autonomous weapon systems. We hope that by addressing these goals, peace between the members of the international community will continue to be fostered, and the UN can remain a place where every state's voice is heard and not where states are dominated or silenced by means of war. | |
| Country: | Uruguay |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
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| As we move into a new era, the international community has a responsibility to make sure the horrors of chemical warfare never happen again. The Convention on the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons is more than just a legal agreement. It shows a shared international commitment to getting rid of chemical weapons. The pain caused by chemical weapons from World War I to more recent conflicts remind us of the horrific harm they inflict. To prevent future tragedies, we must stick to the goals of the CWC. The destruction of chemical stockpiles and the broad support from the international community show we have made progress, but the threat of chemical weapons is not gone. The danger from dual use chemicals, chemicals that can be used for peaceful purposes but also made into weapons, still exists. We also have the danger of non-state actors trying to get and use chemical weapons. We need to use modern tools and technologies like satellite monitoring and better chemical controls to strengthen the CWC. It is important to encourage all nations to ratify the Convention to effectively combat these horrendous weapons. We must also provide support to countries that need help meeting their obligations under the CWC. No nation should tackle this challenge alone and working together is key to our success. The impact of the CWC will be measured not just by the destruction of weapons but also by how well we prevent their return. We must come together as a global community to ensure that chemical weapons remain in the past. Through cooperation, innovation, and commitment, we can create a safer future for everyone. | |
| Country: | Venezuela |
| Topic: | Consolidation of peace through practical disarmament measures |
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| Before and throughout the history of the United Nations, the importance of preventing the procurement and stockpiling of conventional weaponry has been at the core of the United Nations mission. Through further regulation of conventional weaponry, the United Nations is able to continue to work towards further world peace. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela recognizes the danger of states having unchecked power, and the importance of regulating the production and stockpiling of conventional weaponry. In 1925, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela signed the Geneva Protocol, ratifying it in 1928. In 2005, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela acceded to the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela ratified the Inter-American Convention on Firearms in 2002, and ratified the Inter-American Convention on Transparency in 2005. As can be seen through these international treaties and conventions, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is committed to regulating the production and stockpiling of conventional weaponry in cooperation with other states and international actors. However, it is important to note the fact the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has suffered breaches of its sovereignty from Western imperialist powers. Due to the oppressive power these states hold, they have never been met with justice for their illegal actions that overtly violate the UN Charter. Due to the lack of legal justice against those who violate Venezuelan sovereignty, the prudent usage of weapons to protect the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela's borders and sovereignty is unfortunately necessary. Western imperialist powers have placed arms restrictions on said actions by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, despite the continued procurement and manufacturing of conventional weaponry by said states. Thus, while it is important to cooperate on issues of practical disarmament, it is important to also emphasize national security and sovereignty on an international playing field that is tipped to one side. The delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela will push for further international cooperation on the issue of conventional weaponry, while particularly taking into account the issues of national security and state sovereignty. Furthermore, the delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela will continue to advocate and champion policy that will ensure Western imperialist powers are held accountable for bending and breaking international law in regards to conventional weaponry. | |
| Country: | Venezuela |
| Topic: | Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on Their Destruction |
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| The utilization of chemical weaponry through the end of the Cold War caused large scale devastation and an immeasurable amount of human suffering. United Nations policy on chemical weaponry continues to push for the end of all proliferation of said tools, being very much successful so far. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela recognizes the importance of preventing the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weaponry, and emphasizes the importance of properly disposing of said weapons. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has been a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency since 1957. In 1972, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela signed onto the Biological Weapons Convention, and ratified it in 1978. Similarly, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela signed onto the Chemical Weapons Convention in 1993, and ratified said document in 1997. These international agreements demonstrate our commitment to the prevention of the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weaponry through international dialogue and cooperation. Furthermore, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has never produced nor stockpiled chemical, biological, or nuclear weaponry. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela will continue to assist in international efforts to entirely rid our planet of the dangers of chemical weaponry. It is important to note, however, the influence of western imperialist powers in certain international bodies. On top of this, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has had consistent violations of its sovereignty from said powers. Due to this, the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela cautions other states to be wary of movements and policies headed by certain powers. The delegation of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela will continue to push for international cooperation on the issue of chemical weaponry. The delegation of Venezuela will push for further investigation and prosecution of actors who violate chemical weapons laws, while ensuring said investigative bodies are nonpartisan to ensure said actions do not have political intent behind them. | |
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