Position paper for New Zealand
| Committee: | GA First |
| 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 | |
| Committee: | GA First |
| 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. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Agriculture development, food security and nutrition |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand is committed to addressing agriculture development and food security, recognizing their crucial roles in global stability and sustainable growth. The country's agricultural sector is a vital part of its economy, and with 41% of its energy sourced from renewables, New Zealand emphasizes balancing environmental protection with food production. The global food crisis, affecting 2.4 billion people, demands urgent action. New Zealand stresses that sustainable agricultural practices are essential to ensure the resilience of food systems and urges other nations to recognize food security as a priority. New Zealand has taken significant steps to promote sustainable agriculture and food security domestically and internationally. The Government Industry Agreement and He Waka Eke Noa address biosecurity and emissions in agriculture, fostering collaboration between the government and private sectors to create transparent and sustainable farming practices. The New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme further drives the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and promotes sustainable land use. These initiatives aim to protect the agricultural sector from environmental threats and ensure its long-term resilience. Internationally, New Zealand contributes to global efforts through partnerships with organizations like the World Food Programme, supporting agricultural development projects in regions such as Rwanda. The Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures initiative funds projects to advance sustainable farming practices, locally and abroad, focusing on aiding smallholder farmers and improving food production methods. These efforts align with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), and reflect New Zealand's commitment to sustainable and inclusive agricultural practices. To strengthen global food security, New Zealand calls for increased international cooperation through UN partnerships and collaboration, particularly in regions most affected by Hunger. It advocates for holistic agrifood policies integrating economic resilience with environmental sustainability, ensuring food systems adapt to climate challenges. New Zealand urges member states to prioritize agricultural innovation and capacity-building investment. Additionally, New Zealand emphasizes the need for data- driven policies to guide agrarian development. It calls for more financial support for initiatives like the World Food Programme and the International Fund for Agricultural Development. New Zealand aims to contribute to a more resilient and food-secure world by enhancing global partnerships and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. | |
| Committee: | GA Second |
| Topic: | Development cooperation with middle-income countries |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand recognizes the pivotal role middle-income countries (MICs) play in global development, accounting for one-third of the world's GDP, 75% of the population, and 62% of people living in poverty. MICs often face the "middle-income trap," where early growth stagnates due to a lack of new economic drivers. Addressing this challenge is crucial for global stability and sustainable development. For New Zealand, supporting MICs, especially in the Pacific region, is aligned with its commitment to fairness and sustainable development, given their shared vulnerabilities to economic shocks and climate change. The international community must prioritize MICs to foster inclusive growth and meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). New Zealand actively engages with MICs through the Pacific Reset Strategy, focusing on economic resilience, infrastructure development, and climate change mitigation. The New Zealand Aid Programme delivers support tailored to Pacific nations, ensuring sustainable development aligns with the unique needs of each country. In 2023, New Zealand's Official Development Assistance (ODA) reached USD 746.4 million, a 41.3% increase from the previous year. The Sustainable Food & Fibre Futures initiative supports agricultural sustainability projects across the Pacific, while partnerships with the World Bank, such as the PNG and Pacific Islands Umbrella Facility, expand access to essential services for underserved communities. New Zealand calls for enhanced UN partnerships and increased financing for sustainable development initiatives. It supports policies that promote economic diversification and capacity building in MICs to break the "middle- income trap." New Zealand also advocates Comprehensive Wealth Measures that go beyond GDP to assess development progress, encouraging countries to invest in long- term growth. New Zealand recommends prioritizing climate adaptation and infrastructure projects that bolster resilience, especially in small island developing states. It urges other nations to adopt fair trade policies that support sustainable economic growth in MICs. The global community can advance a more equitable and sustainable agenda by fostering solid international partnerships and adapting strategies. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Rights of indigenous peoples |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand stands as a beacon for Indigenous rights, advocating for self-determination and cultural preservation on the global stage through its unwavering support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). UNDRIP recognizes that the rights of Indigenous peoples are protected in continuing their cultural practices, managing their lands, and being involved in decision-making processes concerning their communities. The Treaty of Waitangi focuses on Indigenous rights within New Zealand and emphasizes that Indigenous voices must be part of the shaping of global policies. When the right to a clean and sustainable environment was recognized by the UN General Assembly, New Zealand pointed out the need for Indigenous representation in policy. New Zealand strongly believes that meaningful participation of Indigenous peoples in decision-making is the way to achieve the goals put forth in UNDRIP. During the 2023 session of EMRIP, New Zealand recalled once again that the enhanced participation of Indigenous peoples at the United Nations means a possibility for them to be heard on issues affecting them. This is no less than a right, but also a certain imperative that must be undertaken for global progress in general, besides environmental sustainability, human rights, and development. During this committee, New Zealand plans to build upon its previous commitments to Indigenous rights by advocating for more institutionalized mechanisms for Indigenous participation in the United Nations. This includes prioritizing capacity-building initiatives to support Indigenous communities worldwide, particularly in the Pacific region, where the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation are most severe. New Zealand intends to introduce a resolution encouraging member states to formally recognize the right to self-determination for Indigenous peoples and to implement legal frameworks that allow Indigenous communities to manage their resources and cultural practices autonomously. By fostering collaboration among member states, New Zealand will push for enhanced educational programs and partnerships that raise awareness about Indigenous issues, aiming to ensure that global policies reflect the priorities and rights outlined in UNDRIP. Through these efforts, New Zealand seeks to reaffirm its position as a global leader in advancing Indigenous rights, continuing to strengthen international cooperation and inclusivity in decision-making processes. | |
| Committee: | GA Third |
| Topic: | Literacy for life |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand leads the way in global literacy efforts, empowering marginalized communities to unlock their full potential through the power of education. Our international work on literacy is in step with United Nations initiatives including UNESCO's Education for All campaign and the Sustainable Development Goals. During the United Nations Literacy Decade (2003-2012), we played an active role in UNESCO programs committed to improving literacy, with a particular emphasis on disadvantaged groups, including women and Indigenous peoples of the Pacific. Through our partnerships with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, the focus has mainly been on community-based education systems to increase the rate of improvement in literacy and numeracy levels among disadvantaged groups. New Zealand also contributed to UNESCO's workshops including local languages and cultural contexts to press ahead with literacy education, embracing innovative approaches through the Literacy Initiative for Empowerment (LIFE). We are conscious of the fact that two-thirds of the 763 million illiterate adults in the world are women, and so we have set our bilateral aid programs in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to support literacy programs specifically for women and girls. Such programs help address some of the systemic barriers to getting girls and women into school, such as gender-based violence, and reflect Sustainable Development Goal 4 for inclusive education. New Zealand now calls for a Global Literacy Fund focused on gender equity and digital literacy, since only 54% of women have access to the internet compared with 58% of men. This will, in turn, enormously promote targeted educational programs which could give a boost to raising literacy in women and girls, particularly in developing nations. We call for effective international cooperation with governments and NGOs, specifically with Save the Children and UNESCO, in the sharing of resources and the monitoring of our progress. New Zealand is committed to the eradication of illiteracy, and equality in education for all, including those with disabilities, so all may have the requisite skills for active life participation. Together, we can achieve a more literate, equitable world where every human being has a chance to thrive. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | The human right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand takes pride in being a champion for our efforts to create a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. However, New Zealand stresses the importance of strengthening environmental health and urges member states to address the climate disasters across the world. The World Meteorology Organization stated that sea levels have more than doubled in the past decade. Pacific Island nations are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events due to climate change. As a part of the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), New Zealand works with neighboring Pacific Island nations to address environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and disaster preparedness. New Zealand prides itself on collaboration with organizations such as the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), UN Development Programme (UNDP), and UN University- Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS). With their help, the Pacific Insurance and Climate Adaptation Programme was launched. Through this program, New Zealand, along with Australia and the United Kingdom, have been collaborating with states in need, providing financial aid and strengthening infrastructure in preparation of a climate disaster. Member states partnered with the Associations of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) have also worked hard to address these challenges that smaller states face and are looming over the rest of the globe. New Zealand has worked alongside PSIDS to ensure an investment in corporations and businesses, incentivizing them to engage in climate initiatives. We also stress the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to help limit global warming, as the impact on our natural environment and marine life is alarming. As a part of this, New Zealand has set national emissions reduction targets, including reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. New Zealand urges the International Community to ramp up climate finance investments per the commitments made under the Paris Agreement as a preventative measure against the threat of climate change. There must be preemptive measures to prevent a tragedy while also maintaining a strong framework in the face of disaster. This comes in the form of more investments into a framework that addresses a possible tragedy. Ensuring that the capacities to address loss and damage are well funded. Ensuring programs are better designed to anticipate and respond to the threat of extreme weather. | |
| Committee: | GA Plenary |
| Topic: | Safety and security of humanitarian personnel and protection of United Nations personnel |
| Paper text: | |
| Under international law, UN personnel are protected under the Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel (1994), which criminalizes attacks against UN staff. Despite this, enforcement in conflict zones remains challenging. The United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) coordinates thousands of humanitarian missions annually, many of which take place in high-risk environments. In addition, New Zealand notes that 363 million people need humanitarian aid due to persecution, conflict, violence, and human rights violations. New Zealand has already contributed NZ$10 million in response to this crisis but more must be done. The missions of the United Nations and humanitarian personnel must be carried out to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting the globe. Humanitarian and United Nations personnel cannot be expected to fulfill their missions in active conflict zones if all members participating in the conflict don't swiftly cease all operations. Facilitation of peace is the start of humanitarian missions, but there must be more done. New Zealand urges that perpetrators of violence or threats do not receive impunity and that the International Criminal Court (ICC) looks to uphold any laws that have been broken and the standards regarding the safety and security of humanitarian personnel to be reviewed. Many member states be reminded of the Customary International Humanitarian Law Rule 31 addressing the obligation to respect and protect humanitarian relief personnel. New Zealand fears these measures are not enough. New Zealand recommends the International Community expand current legal instruments like the Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel to include greater protections for all humanitarian workers, including those working for non-governmental organizations (NGOs). This would help ensure that attacks on these personnel are prosecuted under international law. New Zealand would also like to reinforce the need for conflict-free zones meant to deliver humanitarian assistance efficiently and the importance of the cooperation of all involved parties. The international community must cooperate to ensure the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and thwart the efforts of bad-faith actors that are unwilling to cooperate. | |
| Committee: | ECOSOC |
| Topic: | Empowering people and ensuring inclusiveness and equality |
| Paper text: | |
| Empowering individuals and ensuring inclusiveness and equality are foundational principles for New Zealand. As a nation built on diversity, with the Indigenous M?ori population and communities from various cultural backgrounds, New Zealand understands the profound importance of fostering an inclusive society where every person has the opportunity to thrive. The country recognizes that social and economic inequalities can lead to long-term detriments, not just domestically but globally, by fueling unrest and hindering sustainable development. New Zealand urges other countries to prioritize this topic because global inequality exacerbates issues like poverty, conflict, and migration crises. By collectively addressing these challenges, nations can promote stability, economic growth, and the universal realization of human rights. Domestically, New Zealand has implemented the Wellbeing Budget, an innovative approach that places the well-being of citizens at the center of government policy. This budget focuses on mental health, reducing child poverty, supporting M?ori and Pacific peoples, and transitioning to a sustainable economy]. The Human Rights Act 1993 prohibits discrimination on grounds such as race, gender, and disability, reinforcing the nation's commitment to equality. Internationally, New Zealand contributes to global development through the New Zealand Aid Programme, which aims to reduce poverty and contribute to a more secure, equitable, and prosperous world. The program places a strong emphasis on the Pacific region, supporting initiatives that empower communities and promote sustainable development. Additionally, New Zealand actively supports international human rights instruments and has been a vocal advocate for the rights of indigenous peoples, women, and marginalized groups at the United Nations. New Zealand calls upon member states to collaborate internationally to reduce inequality by sharing best practices and resources; enforce laws that protect the rights of all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable; prioritize achieving SDG 10 by addressing systemic barriers to equality; establish robust social safety nets to shield citizens from economic shocks and health crises like COVID-19; and support educational initiatives that promote human rights and the importance of inclusiveness | |
| Committee: | ECOSOC |
| Topic: | Science, technology and innovation for development |
| Paper text: | |
| Science, technology, and innovation (STI) are critical drivers of New Zealand's economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social well-being. As a nation with a strong emphasis on research and development, particularly in agriculture, biotechnology, and renewable energy, New Zealand recognizes the transformative power of STI in addressing global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic disparities. New Zealand believes that all countries should invest in STI to foster sustainable development, reduce inequalities, and enhance the quality of life for their citizens. By collaborating on STI initiatives, nations can share knowledge, bridge technological gaps, and promote global prosperity. Domestically, New Zealand has established the National Science Challenges, which focus on key areas like health, environmental sustainability, and technological innovation to tackle the country's most pressing issues. The government also launched the Research, Science, and Innovation (RSI) Strategy, outlining a long-term vision for a highly skilled and innovative nation. Efforts are made to ensure inclusivity in STI fields, promoting diversity and addressing gender imbalances. Internationally, New Zealand participates in global research collaborations and supports STI development in the Pacific region. Through partnerships and funding, New Zealand assists developing nations in building their STI capacities, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies. New Zealand urges member states to foster international partnerships that facilitate technology transfer, joint research, and innovation; support developing countries in building the necessary STI infrastructure and human capital; implement programs that encourage women and underrepresented groups to participate in science and technology fields; establish guidelines to mitigate biosecurity risks and protect against cyber vulnerabilities associated with new technologies; and advocate for increased funding and resources, particularly for the least developed countries, to overcome financial barriers to STI development. | |
| Committee: | WHA |
| Topic: | Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents' Health |
| Paper text: | |
| Since the health of women, children, and adolescents is important not only for social progress but also to the development of countries, New Zealand is committed to preserving and enhancing the health of these groups of the population. Stable marketed economies stem from stronger families as well as improved communities particularly when women and children are healthy. These populations' health is a fundamental human right that transcends borders; countries should care about this? problem because the healthy lives of women, children, and adolescents help foster sustainable development, reduce poverty, and benefit society. These problems have been addressed by New Zealand with a strong and intensive plan. In this regard, there are programs like Well Child (Tamariki Ora) that ensure that mothers and their families obtain necessary health treatments by conducting check-ups on children under five years. In addition, New Zealand gives priority to sexual and reproductive health education to empower youth to make informed health choices. New Zealand supports international health initiatives that reduce maternal and infant mortality and increase population health awareness worldwide, including in the Pacific region, in partnership with WHO and UNICEF. New Zealand calls on the WHO committee to act now on the urgent health needs of women, children, and teenagers. We urge member states to adopt the SDGs, to promote better health for all, enhance health literacy, and strengthen global partnership. It is possible to ensure that health activities will contribute toward the attainment of SDGs associated with gender, education, and poverty by aligning the existing health structures with more expansive sustainable development initiatives. | |
| Committee: | WHA |
| Topic: | Public health dimension of the world drug problem |
| Paper text: | |
| New Zealand has consistently recognized the growing problem of drug use, especially
among young people, and has put in place several programs to prevent substance usage
and lessen the harm caused by drugs. Such as New Zealand's Drug Harm Reduction
Strategy, which aims to reduce harm that is already occurring (problem limitation), reduce
the desire to use alcohol and other drugs (demand reduction), and prevent or reduce the
availability of alcohol and other drugs (supply control). Through preventative initiatives,
increased access to addiction treatment, and the implementation of harm reduction
strategies including supervised consumption services. This method aims to lower the
demand for drugs. Specifically, by supporting education initiatives in schools and
communities, raising knowledge of the risks associated with drug use, and providing
alternatives to drug involvement, New Zealand has been successful in reducing juvenile
drug usage. New Zealand is also committed to aiding other countries in combating the
international drug issue through partnerships with the Global Commission on Drug Policy
and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Through engagements of
these groups, New Zealand aims to develop and progress better policies based on
research to tackle the social economic causes of the use of drugs; prioritizing health and
reduction of harm. New Zealand encourages programs that target drug traffickers and
smugglers to disrupt supply networks and lower the number of illegal narcotics available
worldwide. In addition, New Zealand highlights the necessity of international collaboration
to stop the spread of new, stronger synthetic narcotics, such as vaping products and
marijuana, which are gaining popularity among youth. New Zealand urges other member
states to enhance border control to combat drug distribution, promote anti-drug
campaigns among young people, and introduce taxation of hazardous substances. On
one hand, we encourage nations to use health-formulated measures alongside the strict
application of law enforcement measures to fight the sale of these substances. Together it
is possible to limit factors that lead to drug abuse and make generations to come safe
from using substances.
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