Position Papers by Committee

Position paper for General Assembly Third Committee

Country:Afghanistan
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Afghanistan’s government-in-exile affirms that the right of peoples to self-determination, as enshrined in the UN Charter and the International Covenants, protects a population’s free choice of political status and pursuit of economic, social, and cultural development. Properly understood, it requires representative institutions, the rule of law, and participation without discrimination. It does not legitimate authority seized by force or the exclusion of half the population from public life.
Afghans repeatedly expressed their will for a democratic, rights-respecting state under the 2004 Constitution, which guaranteed universal suffrage and protections for women and minorities. The brutal August 2021 takeover extinguished internal self-determination: women and girls are denied education and work, independent media and civil society are constrained, and governance lacks popular consent. Universal realization of self- determination requires restoring the Afghan people’s voice through inclusive, credible processes, not coercion.
We therefore urge Member States to support a UN-facilitated political path toward time- bound, internationally monitored elections; tie any engagement to concrete human rights benchmarks including reopening girls’ secondary and higher education, removing restrictions on movement and employment, and releasing political detainees; protect humanitarian action and Afghan civil society from interference; and sustain non-recognition of coercive rule while employing targeted measures against grave violators. An inclusive national dialogue, bringing women leaders, ulema, minorities, youth, and the diaspora into a constitutional process, should chart reforms that secure participation, ensure decentralization where appropriate, and guarantee fundamental freedoms. Afghanistan seeks a future chosen by Afghans themselves: through ballots, institutions, and rights that bind rulers to the ruled.
Country:Afghanistan
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan reaffirms that the empowerment of women and girls, particularly in rural areas, is essential for achieving national stability, human rights, and sustainable development. Rural women form the backbone of Afghan society, contributing to agriculture, family livelihoods, and community life. Yet, they remain among the most marginalized due to decades of conflict, poverty, and now systemic discrimination under Taliban rule. Since August 2021, the situation for Afghan women and girls has deteriorated sharply. In rural provinces, schools for girls remain closed, female healthcare workers are restricted, and humanitarian aid often fails to reach those most in need. These policies violate Afghanistan’s constitutional guarantees of equality, international human rights law, and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 on gender equality and SDG 4 on quality education. The Delegation of Afghanistan calls upon the United Nations to expand and prioritize programs that directly support women and girls in Afghanistan’s rural areas. Specifically, we urge UNICEF and UNESCO to implement learning- through-play and early reading initiatives that can operate in community spaces or mobile classrooms, ensuring access to education even in restrictive environments. The UNDP and FAO should strengthen female-led agricultural cooperatives, providing training, microloans, and digital literacy resources to rural women entrepreneurs. Additionally, we support UN Women’s coordination of mobile healthcare services and mentorship programs connecting educated Afghan women living abroad with girls in remote communities. Empowering rural Afghan women is not a matter of cultural debate but a universal moral and developmental necessity. Sustainable peace and national self- determination cannot exist while half of Afghanistan’s population is silenced and excluded.
Country:Albania
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The delegation of the Republic of Albania seeks to reaffirm its commitment to the universal recognition of the rights of peoples to self-determine. The origins of this support stem from much of Albania’s own history of being oppressed by a greater power, for example the four hundred and thirty three year occupation by the infamous Ottoman Empire, from 1479 to the 1912 Albanian declaration of independence, then more modernly the German Nazi government’s take over of the then-Albanian Kingdom from 1943 to 1944, resulting in the deaths of 30,200 Albanian military personnel and civilians. Simply put, the delegation of Albania, would like to urge its fellow delegates on the General Assembly's, Third Committee of Social, Cultural and Humanitarian issues, to pursue this area of international relations with positive action.
Regarding the Republic of Albania's own present circumstance pertaining to this topic in the context of national relations towards its geographical neighbor the Republic of Kosovo, which holds a population that is 87% Albanian. It has been long discussed a unification between the two republics, and the delegation of Albania would like to propose more movement towards this end goal, something that 80% of Kosovo citizens have desired for along with 68 percent of Albania. This would be beneficial as both Kosovo and Albania have been distanced from the regional organization, the European Union, and thus find themselves to be isolated, both socially, economically, and defense wise from their near allies. Given this isolation Kosovo and Albania have the potential to make themselves stronger as a nation to better sustain themselves, along with becoming a better candidate for European integration and potential membership in the EU. Membership has been dangled in front of both states with no visible progress, Kosovo since their Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s application on December 15th 2022 and Albania, further back, since April 28th, 2009.
Country:Albania
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Albania acknowledges that gender-based violence constitutes a major problem that most urgently needs to be addressed. Women's and girls' rights is on top of the government agenda and the Albanian authorities are making great efforts, in full compliance with the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), to bring about the necessary changes, with the aim being very clear: to guarantee the respect of women and girls' human rights without discrimination.
In various rural communities women become the hardest hit in the case of domestic violence and have a much higher danger of such abuse. The country of Albania has taken significant measures and passed multiple laws in this regard, e.g. Law No. 9669, "On measures against violence in family relations," which broadened definitions of domestic violence in the areas of psychological, physical, sexual, and economic abuse. Unfortunately, enacting these protections in rural regions is still posing great difficulty. Certain cultural practices, combined with limited resources available to those in rural areas has increased issues around offering viable and safe courses of action to victims of domestic abuse.
Moreover, Albania asks for the international community's cooperation to set up well- organized aid programs in the rural areas as part of the future plans. This aid must include legal assists, counseling, and emergency relief shelters. All of this can provide women and girls with the vital tools to escape situations of domestic violence and abuse. The other important issue we bring forward is that law enforcement officers, judges, and social workers should have the most recent qualifications and training to ensure that help is reached out to those in need.
Albania is ready to cooperate with other Member States to put an end to gender-based violence in rural communities. Building a better future for all women and girls is achievable through protection and prevention methods.
Country:Algeria
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The universal right to self-determination is a core principle of the United Nations and serves as a cornerstone to all other human rights. Algeria in concurrence with the U.N.’s Charter and The Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, believes that the freedom to express the right to self-determination is necessary for all other human rights to be enjoyed to their fullest extent. We strongly reaffirm our commitment to all peoples that are currently fighting for their independence and emancipation. We believe that the inaction of the global community on this issue, in particular the crisis in Gaza, to be of grave humanitarian and legal concern that must be remedied immediately to preserve international peace and security. Algeria additionally in line with General Assembly Resolution A/RES/63/164 and Resolution 2625 the Friendly Relations Declaration, condemns the use of mercenaries and private military contractors to suppress liberation movements and civil liberties. It is our belief that if the international community wants to meaningfully address the issue of self-determination, we must unite together to condemn countries that engage in practices that strip citizens of their right to self-determination. Secondly, the international community needs to continue to support relevant UN human rights mechanisms, including the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Member states additionally must work in unison with the OHCHR to monitor and promote the right to self-determination and other human rights. Lastly, the international community needs to encourage countries who have previously engaged in actions that violate these rights to withdraw their occupying forces and cease settlement activities in these disputed regions. By doing these things we can strengthen international peace and bring justice to those who have been denied it for too long.
Country:Algeria
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
We would like to call attention to the fact that women and girls living in rural areas face disproportionate barriers to healthcare, education, political institutions, and more. In accordance with UN Resolution A/RES/72/148, Algeria recognizes that these rural women and girls play crucial roles in rural households, food security, as well as being the key to solving these issues. Algeria has ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) as well as other international and regional tools to combat gender discrimination. The 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 5 (Gender Equality) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) are an adequate first step in this improvement of rural women’s lives, but there is more to be done. As a part of the UN Women Regional Office for Arab States and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Algeria has worked to close the gender gap in our country and our region. In 2023, Algeria was included in the UNDP’s Gender Equality Strategy (2022–2025). From this, the program looked into bettering the behavioral rehabilitation practices for Algerian women prisoners. While these actions are important, implementing more women in political leadership roles, as agreed upon in the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, could provide better results toward the mission of gender equality. When women have more power within their states, the women and girls living in these rural areas tend to have an improved quality of life. According to research cited by UNWomen, R. Chattopadhyay and E. Duflo conducted a study in which India and Norway saw success with drinking water and childcare when a higher percentage of women held local offices. UNWomen continues to play a leading role in advancing gender equality globally and Algeria aims to work with them in gathering reports regarding women’s political participation; as women in political power act as the key to improving these situations.
Country:Argentina
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
I. Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Argentina recognizes the universal right to self-determination as an urgent and fundamental matter, particularly for populations still under colonial oppression. Self- determination, as defined by Article 1 of the 1966 International Covenant on Human Rights, is the right of peoples to “freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development.”
Argentina commends the considerable efforts of the United Nations to promote and pursue self-determination. Firstly, the establishment of the 1945 UN Charter, under Articles 1(2) and 55, recognized self-determination as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of international peace and security. The 1960 Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples (Resolution 1514) also condemned colonialism, with Argentina among the 89 countries that voted in favor of its adoption. This led to the establishment of the Special Committee on Decolonization in 1961, paving the way for the independence of over 80 former colonies. Argentina further recognizes the United Nations’ continued assistance and mediation in contemporary self- determination referendums and disputes.
Despite these successes, achieving universal self-determination remains a complex and nuanced challenge, evidenced by the UN's official recognition of 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories yet to achieve full self-determination. Argentina identifies two primary causes for this ongoing dilemma: i) The conflict between Self-Determination and Territorial Integrity: The 1970 Declaration on Principles of International Law clarified that self- determination should not be used to undermine the sovereignty of states, emphasizing the need for both principles to coexist. However, balancing the two has proven difficult, as through the pursuit of self-determination, the territorial integrity of a state may be threatened. ii) Ambiguity Over Who Qualifies as a “People”: The United Nations has never clearly defined what constitutes a “people” entitled to self-determination, leading to varying interpretations and inconsistent international recognition of new states.
Argentina recognizes self-determination as a fundamental principle of international law. However, we emphasize that it does not take precedence over the principle of territorial integrity. As expressed in our statement before the UN Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24) in September 1964, Argentina applies self-determination primarily ‘to peoples subjected to alien subjugation, domination and exploitation, and foreign occupation’. Nevertheless, we maintain that state sovereignty, defined as a state’s supreme authority to govern its territory free from external interference, must be preserved, particularly in cases where claims to self-determination arise from settler colonialism or ongoing foreign occupation. Argentina calls upon the General Assembly to address the root causes of ongoing disputes by establishing clearer definitions of (i) self- determination and (ii) the “peoples” entitled to exercise it. Moreover, Argentina affirms that claims to self-determination must continue to be assessed on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter. Argentina stands ready to collaborate within the framework of the Special Committee on Decolonization and other relevant UN bodies to not only advance constructive dialogue in self-determination cases, but also implement firm, practical, and non-violent mechanisms to enforce proposed resolutions.
Country:Argentina
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
II. Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas Argentina recognizes the improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas as a critical and vital matter. Rural women and girls represent a pivotal yet vulnerable role in society, greatly contributing to agricultural productivity and food security in rural economies, accounting for over 40% of the agricultural labour force in developing countries. However, these women are facing many barriers due to poverty, lack of education, and entrenched gender norms. Addressing their rights is thus crucial for social justice and achieving many of the objectives outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals. On the one hand, the United Nations has made great progress in promoting gender equality through instruments such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW, 1979) and the Beijing Platform for Action (1995). More recently, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) dedicated its 62nd session to the empowerment of rural women and girls, emphasizing access to education, healthcare, technology, and decision-making roles. These initiatives have provided a strong foundation for action and encouraged member states to adopt gender-sensitive policies. Similarly, the Argentine government has implemented several of its own national initiatives. The 2016 National Plan to Prevent and Combat Violence Against Women coordinates efforts among ministries of agro-industry, health, and social development to raise awareness and provide direct services to victims, especially in rural areas. Similarly, the National Institute of Women (INAM) has worked to strengthen local gender equality offices, providing resources and interdisciplinary support to victims of gender-based violence. Furthermore, Argentina has also collaborated with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and MERCOSUR on campaigns like “Mujeres Rurales” (Rural Women) to highlight women’s contributions to rural development and promote social recognition. Lastly, Argentina’s Ministry of Health has adapted reproductive health programs to rural contexts, raising awareness on issues such as adolescent pregnancy and ensuring reproductive autonomy for women across provinces. On the other hand, despite these initiatives, inequality remains, as despite the UN’s establishment of strong normative frameworks, it has struggled to translate them into practical measures on the ground, especially in rural or indigenous regions where resources are limited. In alignment with the Beijing Platform for Action and the 2030 Agenda, Argentina has prioritized three key areas of improvement: (i) Autonomy over their bodies and the prevention of gender-based violence, (ii) Economic empowerment, and (iii) Participation in political and decision-making processes. Argentina believes that rural women and girls deserve the same rights, opportunities, and dignity as their urban counterparts. As a federal nation, Argentina faces difficulties in harmonizing national gender policies across provinces with diverse social and cultural conditions. Thus, Argentina calls upon the international community to strengthen technical cooperation and resource-sharing mechanisms to uplift localized gender equality initiatives. Moreover, Argentina proposes the creation of community-based mechanisms for access to justice for rural and indigenous women. Such initiatives aim to establish local agencies that provide legal information, receive complaints, and promote alternative dispute resolution methods. Argentina remains determined in its belief that gender equality requires collective commitment. As the 2018 G20 Presidency, Argentina integrated gender mainstreaming across all policy areas, emphasizing women’s participation in employment, education, science, and technology. Argentina urges the Third Committee to reaffirm the rights of rural women and girls, enhance UN support for capacity building, and promote global solidarity in achieving gender equality. The empowerment of rural girls is not only a matter of justice, but a staple of sustainable and inclusive development for all.
Country:Australia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Commonwealth of Australia recognizes the right of self-determination as foundational for its First Nations peoples and healthy international relations. Australia has relentlessly worked to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities can determine their political, social, and economic development, which is essential for addressing injustice and colonial legacies. Member States must acknowledge self-determination as the foundation of human rights, international and internal peace, development, and conflict prevention. As a supporter of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act (2005), Australia affirms the establishment of the National Aboriginal, the Torres Strait Islander Women’s Alliance, and other First Nations bodies to provide the Indigenous people with the voice they deserve. Australia engages in frequent reports under treaty bodies, including reports to United Nations (UN) committees. Australia implements the A/HRC/36/46/Add.2 “Closing the Gap” strategy to reduce social, health, education, and economic inequality. Australia endorsed the Native Title Act (1993), providing a structure for Indigenous people to claim rights over land, helping to restore land interest and authorizing independence over the use of ancestral lands, adopting A/HRC/18/L.23 to provide Human Rights to Indigenous peoples. Australia has supported the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples since 2009, participates in UN conferences on Indigenous rights, and offers aid and technical cooperation that include Indigenous self-determination in partner states. Australia encourages Member States to recognize self-determination not as a threat to state sovereignty but as a method for stronger governance, in accordance with Article I of the UN Charter. Australia calls on Member States to support treaty and declaration-based protections and commit to funding and developing Indigenous institutions globally. Australia seeks to promote resolutions that encourage Member States to engage in meaningful consultation and empowerment of Indigenous peoples in all decisions affecting them.
Country:Australia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Australia believes rural women and girls play significant roles in society, economy, and cultural heritage, especially in remote and First Nations communities. Australia continues to face distinct barriers to equal participation in education, political life, and resource access. Australia acknowledges that these inequalities undermine national unity, economic growth, and international obligations. Member States should consider this issue because the continuance of such inequalities diminishes efforts to meet the Sustainable Development Goals. Rural women’s empowerment strengthens resilience against setbacks, including climate change and pandemic shocks. Aligning with A/C.3/70/L.24, Australia's current reporting to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) Committee demonstrates its plans to expand services, improve education access, and address gender-based problems in rural communities. Australia has been improving paid parental leave and granting billions of dollars to reduce gender-based violence and improve health services in rural areas, including culturally appropriate services for Indigenous women. The Australian government is committed to creating partnerships with Indigenous representative bodies such as the Coalition of Peaks to design solutions under Closing the Gap and other programs. Australia applies gender impact assessments to budget and policy processes to identify and address inequalities faced by women. Australia’s foreign aid strengthens gender equality. It began building a platform for leadership and political participation for rural and Indigenous women, civil society strengthening, and programs like the Pacific Women Mediators Network to enhance women’s voice in governance. Australia urges Member States to adopt stronger methods of ensuring rural women and girls’ rights are preserved without discrimination. Australia aims to strengthen international collaboration to increase investment in infrastructure, health, education, and legal services in rural areas. Australia calls on UN monitoring bodies and special reports to give greater focus to the obstacles facing rural and Indigenous women.
Country:Austria
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The United Nations encourages the people’s right for self-determination, despite the opportunity to determine their political governance being consistently foiled by the tensions and conflicts of multiple states who are non-self governing or experiencing colonial occupation. They empathize that violation of self-determination often leads to increased foreign interference, internal unrest, and threats to international peace and security. This in turn becomes a threat to peace and security to the people, as well as persistence of said action would be a violation to human right treaties and the core humanitarian law conventions. It is added that the absence of a proper legal framework could lead to similar consequences. The United Nations has achieved this goal through the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action (1993) and the creation of the Human Rights Council (2006), in which the state of Austria has not only been an active supporter but also a participant.
Austria affirms its commitment to upholding the right to self-determination by ensuring that governments respect and guarantee the rights and freedoms of their people through robust legal measures. In line with Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Austria recognizes the essential role of the people’s will in shaping their political governance.
Austria emphasizes peaceful and negotiated solutions to self-determination conflicts. Beyond advocating for these principles globally, Austria actively supports peaceful and negotiated solutions to self-determination conflicts. For instance, Austria has promoted extensive autonomy for South Tyrol through cooperation with Italy, ensuring minority protections and cultural rights. On a broader scale, Austria has participated in international peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts, including NATO’s Partnership for Peace missions in Kosovo, Bosnia-Herzegovina,and Afghanistan, which aim to stabilize regions experiencing conflict and promote conditions for self-governance. Furthermore, Austria remains a consistent supporter of negotiated solutions, such as the Two-State solution and resolution for peace with Palestine, recognizing their right for self- determination and planning to take part in the Israel-Palestinian negotiations from early 2025. While Austria is committed to finding a peaceful resolution and calling for immediate action to end this sort of violence, not exclusive to Gaza but to other territories, we have recognized that peace is built through negotiations, mutual respect, and trust between all parties. Austria also stands in solidarity with Ukraine in the face of aggression, supporting humanitarian aid and refugee assistance, reflecting its broader commitment to peace, security, and the protection of peoples’ rights worldwide.
Country:Austria
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Austria recognizes that the empowerment of women and girls in rural areas is vital for achieving sustainable development and gender equality. Rural women play an essential role in agriculture, food security, and environmental protection; however, they continue to face barriers such as unequal access to education, land ownership, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
The international community has recognized the importance of women in rural areas, as their support is crucial to development. Furthermore, the international community must continue to prioritize their inclusion and protection to ensure equitable progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
As a state with the capacity, resources, and commitment to human rights, Austria firmly supports international efforts that strengthen the rights and livelihoods of rural women. As a signatory of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and an active contributor to UN Women, Austria upholds gender equality as a core principle of its domestic and foreign policy. Through the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), Austria supports programs that provide vocational training, improve access to resources, and promote women’s participation in rural economies across Africa, Eastern Europe, and other regions. For instance, Austria, through ADA, funds a project in Kosovo that supports 1,000 rural women. This includes ethnic minorities, and women with disabilities to engage in climate-smart agriculture and agritourism activities. These build legal literacy for land/property access, and connect to digital markets.
As the year of the Women Farmer approaches it is imperative that we as a State, and a congregation of like-minded individuals, focus on the importance of women, specifically women and girls in rural areas. Austria urges the global community to build on existing UN frameworks, such as the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, General Assembly Resolution 76/146 on the improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas, and the “Women in Development” resolution. Austria’s national efforts, detailed in its 2019 report on the Implementation of the Resolution “Women in Development”, demonstrate strong alignment with these frameworks. Domestically, Austria established the Working Group on Equality of Women and Men and Equal Opportunities in Rural Areas under its Rural Development Program (ELER) to advance gender-sensitive rural policies. The 2017 conference Women in the Country: Equality and Equal Opportunities in Rural Areas which promoted participatory dialogue on women’s leadership and economic inclusion. Additionally, Austria’s Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women and Development Agency in integrating gender perspectives across all programs.
Through actionable measures which include expanding access to education and digital literacy, ensuring land and inheritance rights, strengthening healthcare availability, and funding women-led agricultural initiatives. Austria believes that empowering women and girls in rural areas is not only a matter of equality but a catalyst for economic growth, social stability, and sustainable global development.
Country:Bangladesh
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Bearing in mind the core values regarding non-self-governing territories stated in Article 73 of the Charter of the United Nations, we reaffirm the right of peoples to self- determination within territories under colonial authority. Thanks to the efforts made by the UN, the number of non-self-governing territories has decreased to 17. The benefits of independence, the freedom to create an individualized identity within a state, the growth of economies, and the social reforms have strengthened not only these states, but the UN itself. For this reason, we emphasize the importance of political and social freedoms of peoples within a state, and we endorse past efforts of the UN to establish protections of these humanitarian entitlements, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. We acknowledge that without the protection and support of member states in the UN, these new states would struggle to thrive as they do now.
While we recognize the importance of self-determination and the decolonization of states, we urge the UN to proceed with caution on the issue in regard to indigenous peoples within preestablished states. The UN has been a champion for self-determination since its establishment, but we remind fellow member states that state sovereignty is a crucial pillar as well. It is important to afford people within a given state freedoms to form their own government when it is absolutely necessary. We call upon our member states to consider the precedent set by granting peoples within a preexisting state the ability and support to break away from their state, and the harm it causes each state to lose pieces of their territory. For this reason, we reaffirm the UN’s efforts to offer its support of self- determination to those states which still face the hindrance of colonization – and further recommend that member states recognize these territories as their own states – and request that the UN carefully considers cases of those which involve the grievances of indigenous peoples of preestablished states, and all possible outcomes their independence.
Country:Bangladesh
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
We assert that the advancement of rural women and girls is vital for the growth and development of all states around the world. We are in full support of the United Nations’ economic, political and agricultural programs toward this goal. Additionally, we maintain that education and health measures are imperative to advance the situation of these communities. We implore member states, as well as the United Nations, to invest in both educational and health measures for women in their rural communities. As well as this, we hope that the United Nations will take action to ensure measures are put in place and that these goals are met. Rural women and girls must have equal access to education as their urban counterparts. For economic freedom, as well as social freedoms. We also urge the establishment of healthcare initiatives to ensure these women and girls are getting the medical care they need. The building of healthcare facilities in rural areas or providing transportation to nearby facilities is essential to the United Nations’ goal of women’s advancement.
We reaffirm the significance of women and girls, rural or otherwise, in development. We urge the United Nations, as well as individual member states, to invest in initiatives and programs that help women and girls acquire the education and healthcare needed to lead healthy, fulfilling, and free lives.
Country:Belarus
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Topic 1: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination The Republic of Belarus supports self-determination as a fundamental right which the United Nations Charter and General Assembly resolution 1514 (XV) have established. International law requires nations to exercise self-determination for maintaining peace and stability and upholding their sovereign status. The Republic of Belarus supports self-determination but believes this right should not serve as a pretext for foreign intervention or separatist activities that endanger national unity and territorial integrity of independent states. The government of Belarus supports self-determination through democratic internal processes which respect national constitutions and promote dialogue between people who live within existing states. The government of Belarus supports self- determination through social unity and economic growth and cultural appreciation between different communities. Belarus supports worldwide efforts to defend human rights and promote sustainable development and equal global participation in decision-making processes. The right to self-determination should apply to all people who live under foreign control of foreign powers and colonial rule according to United Nations resolutions that address this issue. Belarus advocates for increased UN dialogue to support sovereignty protection and non-interference principles and develop peaceful conflict resolution systems. The achievement of universal self-determination requires nations to respect each other while working together under international law which protects both personal rights and collective rights of humans.
Country:Belarus
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Topic 2: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas The Republic of Belarus reaffirms its support for gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls, and particularly in rural communities. Anchored on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Belarus recognizes that the development of rural women is crucial to attaining sustainable development and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
The rural women and girls are crucial for agriculture, rural development, and preservation of traditional culture. National programs of Belarus, such as the State Program on Sustainable Development of Rural Areas, aim to enhance education, health, employment, and social protection of rural residents. The state promotes female participation in local government bodies, business, and agricultural cooperatives in order to provide them with equal contribution to the economy of the country. Despite these efforts, there are still issues the nation has to deal with, including denial of access to contemporary technology, funds, and professional training. Belarus highly values global cooperation and knowledge exchange to overcome these limitations. The digital divide between cities and rural areas must be solved through investment in infrastructure and certain programs that equip women and young women with digital competencies and vocational skills. Belarus is committed to the United Nations and its affiliated agencies, such as UN Women and FAO, and their efforts in supporting programs that empower rural women everywhere. The Republic promotes greater development assistance, access to equitable trade opportunities, and elimination of discriminatory practices that hold women back. Through the promotion of education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, Belarus believes that rural women can become influential agents of social progress, ensuring equality, prosperity, and sustainable development for all communities.
Country:Belgium
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Delegation of the Kingdom of Belgium firmly believes in the rights of peoples to self- determination in compliance with international law. Belgium acknowledges the issues of preserving sovereignty for all countries and also cautions against violent secession or revolution in order to prioritize peace and prosperity in the world. The delegation of Belgium holds in tandem the respect for stateless nations, indigenous, and colonized groups' right to dignity and forms of autonomy. Both the Flemish and Walloon regions in Belgium have autonomy and representation in the government structure of Belgium. This is the model of autonomy that this delegation plans on advocating for in the General Assembly Third Committee, for the 17 non-self governing territories in the world. This delegation would like to propose solutions that synchronize values of sovereignty with autonomy. Therefore, Belgium proposes to work alongside members of the General Assembly’s Third Committee to create a neutral forum for groups and countries to come together and negotiate treaties in compliance with international law. Additionally, Belgium looks forward to outlining a specific model for groups who want greater autonomy, this model has milestones over the course of 15 years, in which groups eventually negotiate greater political power within the country they are in.
Country:Belgium
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Delegation of the Kingdom of Belgium stands in strong support of all women in their fight for equality. It emphasizes the specific struggles of women living in rural, underdeveloped areas. Belgium supports global and EU programs that improve conditions for rural women and girls, and has made significant progress in improving employment rates and shrinking gender pay gaps. Two organizations in Belgium, the European Coordination via Campesina and Oxfam Solidarité, are supporting an EU program to promote women-led innovations in farming and rural territories. Additionally, statistics on the pay gap between men and women in rural areas, as well as differences in unemployment rates, show remarkable improvements in economic equality between men and women in Belgium. Women’s salaries have historically been lower than men’s, and they have had a higher unemployment rate, but this difference is shrinking rapidly. Belgium proposes solutions to this issue that support rural women and girls directly, while also improving the social infrastructure that affects their daily life. Belgium has historically provided funding for women-led innovations in agriculture, and for programs that promote diversity and equity in farming and rural territories. This delegation plans to advocate for solutions that empower rural women to use their voice and advocate for their needs.
Country:Brazil
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The principle of self-determination is a cornerstone of the United States Charter, ensuring that all people have the right to decide their own political status, and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. Yet, this right remains unenforced in many parts of the world due to political resistance, and ongoing conflicts that prevent people from exercising autonomy. While the United Nations has taken significant steps such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), the Declaration on the Granting of Independence of Colonial Countries and Peoples (1960), and the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007), progress has slowed. Many states hesitate to support movements for self-determination out of fear of retaliation from governing bodies. They fear the disruption of trade relations, and political alliances, thereby undermining the UN’s goal of ensuring freedom for all groups of people. This delegation believes that the international community must exert stronger pressure on states that deny people their right to self-determination. This may include both diplomatic and economic measures. Greater accountability within the UN system is essential to discourage selective enforcement of international norms. Additionally, this delegation calls for faster coordination among international entities in response to conflicts that threaten the right to self-determination. As conflict, military occupation, and aggression, hinder people's liberty to exercise this right. Finally, this delegation calls for increased commitment in protecting the rights of indigenous peoples within existing states. Greater representation in government, preservation of cultural autonomy, and local control over community resources are essential towards achieving self-determination. The international community must act with consistency and urgency to ensure that no person is denied the right to determine their own future.
Country:Brazil
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Women and girls in rural areas around the world face many challenges that prevent them from fully enjoying their rights and improving their lives. Many of these women and girls have limited access to basic resources such as education, healthcare, and political participation but oftentimes face significant poverty, discrimination, and violence. Even though women and girls in rural areas carry an important role in food production and rural development, they continuously face unequal opportunities compared to men. Climate change and weak social protection are other significant factors that worsen their situation by putting their own lives and communities at risk.
Through the United Nations, there has been international help to promote equality for rural women and girls. Agreements like The Convention On The Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action have helped highlight the importance in allowing women equal rights, education, and financial opportunities. Despite having international help, many rural women still struggle today due to the lack of certain laws being enforced and global economic systems often leave women behind. While there has been progress made towards education and maternal health, there is more that could be done for women so that they can acquire a lot more benefits that stem from efforts being made to continue developing resources for women.
In order to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this delegation calls upon all governments and organizations to focus on giving rural women girls access to better education, technology, and land ownership. Overcoming the digital divide is very important for women and girls so they can connect to markets, access financial resources, and gain new skills. Empowering women in agriculture and decision making will not only make them feel heard and seen, but will also strengthen rural economies and support global sustainability. The upcoming Year of the Woman Farmer in 2026 emphasizes a great opportunity to raise awareness and promote change for women and girls in rural areas.
Country:Burundi
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
As a central ideal of the United Nations, self determination is integral to the ability of peoples to maintain political and social freedom. Self determination remains threatened by foreign military occupation, continued presence of colonial administering powers, and further obstacles to liberty, rule of law, and freedom from slavery.
Burundi affirms the universal realization of all peoples to self determination. It also expresses that the right to self determination should be applied specifically within decolonization situations, in which international law recognizes the right of an entity to their independence. It further demonstrates a firm opposition to aggressive military operation outside of national borders, which has resulted in repression and maltreatment against many peoples. As a result of acts of foreign military involvement, millions of refugees and displaced persons are unable to return to their homes, a deplorable situation.
Burundi would issue a reminder of the dignity with which it has received thousands of refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and iterates their support of the building of peace processes in the DRC’s complex space of conflict. Burundi also affirms its choice to close its border in 2024, in efforts to maintain peaceful relations with its neighbor Rwanda in the face of DRC’s continued unrest. Within its borders, Burundi continues to commit to the democratic rights of peoples, as declared within its Constitution, and continues its action for shared power across ethnic lines. It affirms that national sovereignty belongs to the people that exercise it, and that the respect of human rights is essential in the conservation of culture and the preservation of independence.
Country:Burundi
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
change needed for sustainable development. Their empowerment is key to improving the wellbeing of rural communities and improving overall economic productivity, given women’s large presence in the agricultural workforce. Producing much of the world’s food, women are instrumental in maintaining stability in the face of climate change, economic crises, and food challenges. Simply by closing the gender gap in agriculture, the global GDP would be raised by $1 trillion or more.
Burundi continues to commit to walking a path of open cooperation in support of gender equality and women’s empowerment, and are encouraged by progress within its borders to meet such goals. Inclusive is an acknowledgement of the comparative advantage of UN Women in Burundi for the development of a National Action Plan following the UN Security Council Resolution 1325 (2000) for social cohesion and conflict prevention. This has included the adoption laws targeting sexual violence, improvement in education equality, and the promotion of micro-finance systems. We are encouraged by the support of development partners as Burundi advances its 2018-2027 National Development Plan, with focuses on national agricultural investment, proposed in response to Burundi’s vulnerabilities in a highly agricultural environment. These efforts will encourage greater involvement from women and girls. Burundi draws attention to international solidarity within this effort, and the support it has received in the face of conflicts and shocks.
Burundi encourages member states in the adoption of agricultural policy and items supporting the rights and capacities of rural women. Women are at the center of agricultural development and environmental protection and must be included in efforts towards change. By enhancing the financial inclusion of rural women, granting entrepreneurial opportunities, and promoting participation in leadership and governance, women will better be able to build long term security for themselves. Burundi encourages monetary support and further solidarity as they continue advancement within their own borders and promotes partnership and advocacy among member states while the issue remains prominent globally.
Country:Cambodia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
It is with great pleasure that the Kingdom of Cambodia states its unparalleled support for the right of peoples to self-determination. Recalling article 1(2) of the UN charter, the ability of all peoples to be allowed to determine their own destiny is a fundamental right. Cambodia prides itself on standing on this pedestal as an unparalleled advocate for this policy. Under the foot of colonial powers, Cambodia has absolutely suffered under the thumb of those unwilling to respect our wishes for sovereignty. In this day and age, it is becoming more important than ever to respect the wishes of others to choose their destiny and exist as a sovereign state. Especially considering the situation in Palestine, the Kingdom of Cambodia would like to extend its full hand of support to the Palestinian delegation. Our government has had cordial relations with the state of Palestine since 1988, a clear example of our willingness to respect the will of the Palestinian people to the right to have their own state, a decision we are more than willing to make for other countries, who have been under the fist of tyranny.
Country:Cambodia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Kingdom of Cambodia prides itself on its willingness to treat both men and women equally before the law. The 31st article of our constitution guarantees that regardless of sex, as well as race, language, and beliefs, a person should enjoy the same rights as their comrades. In terms of marriage and family, our 45th article ensures that they are treated equally in this aspect. Cambodia has outlawed all discrimination against women, of which this statement is also included in the 45th article. While there are allegations of women still being mistreated or forced to submit to a more patriarchal tradition in certain regions of Cambodia, the law stands to ensure that their rights are protected. Past societal norms have encouraged this gender gap; however, in recent decades, Cambodia has worked diligently to better the lives of girls and women throughout the country. The Kingdom of Cambodia stands for the rights of women and girls throughout the world. We believe that equality for both genders should be cemented in the constitutions of all states, and that the laws of all states should represent their best interests.
Country:Chile
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
We stand in support of protecting indigenous rights and expanding access to quality education across the world. Indigenous peoples have long faced systemic injustices such as land theft, racism, and exclusion, leading to the loss of cultural heritage and economic opportunity. For example, in South America, groups like the Mapuche, Aymara, and Rapa Nui continue to fight for recognition and equality despite progress made through the Indigenous Law of 1993 and the establishment of the National Corporation for Indigenous Development (CONADI). We believe that education plays a key role in ending these inequalities. However, many citizens across the region only reach a secondary level of education, which perpetuates poverty and limits social mobility. To truly empower indigenous communities, we heavily support initiatives aligned with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 10, which emphasize inclusive education and the reduction of inequalities.
Country:Chile
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
We support collaborative regional action to ensure that education systems promote cultural inclusion and respect for indigenous identity. This includes implementing bilingual and intercultural education programs that integrate indigenous languages and traditions, as well as expanding scholarship and teacher training opportunities in rural and under-served communities. Recalling Resolution 74/135 adopted by the General Assembly known as the Rights of Indigenous Peoples on 18 December 2018, we invite other member states to aid in stressing the importance of no one being left behind. The delegation also calls for the creation of a South American Indigenous Education Network (SAIEN) under UN guidance to share best practices and strengthen cooperation between member states. Additionally, we encourage the promotion of anti-discrimination policies and public awareness campaigns to address prejudice against indigenous peoples. By investing in education, cultural understanding, and equality, we believe that all of us can move toward a more just and united future—one where every individual, regardless of origin, can contribute freely and fully to society. We reaffirm the rights that remain a priority in the United Nations 2030 agenda that combats hunger, removes barriers to educational access, and meets complex humanitarian needs.
Country:Denmark
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Kingdom of Denmark is aware of the profound impact that war and instability have on small and vulnerable nations. Denmark upholds the principle of self-determination and firmly believes it is necessary for a prosperous and peaceful world. All peoples reserve the right to shape their own political, social, and cultural destiny free from coercion or oppression. As a nation composed of diverse communities, the Kingdom of Denmark understands this principle through its own union with the Greenlandic and Faroese peoples. In the Self-Government Act of Greenland, the preamble enshrines the right of self-determination for Greenland’s predominantly Inuit population. Roughly 90% of Greenland’s population identifies as Greenlandic Inuit, and these native peoples reserve full right to self-determination. These views are further underscored in our relationship with the Faroe Islands, a self-governing archipelago that has full rights to self-determination. Self-determination does not need to threaten the sovereignty of member states. Denmark calls upon members of this committee to recognize similar indigenous peoples and marginalized groups and to see them not as a threat but as an opportunity for growth. In light of ongoing humanitarian crises and emerging struggles for freedom across the globe, Denmark affirms UN resolution 79/163, which recognizes the universal right of self-determination to specific targeted groups. Denmark would look favorably upon resolutions with similar objectives, offering a solution to arising injustices in other regions and underserved countries. Initiatives that encourage peaceful dialogue, establish UN frameworks, and expand international cooperation can strengthen each nation and its peoples. The Kingdom of Denmark believes that self-determination belongs to the hands of the people, not oppressive governments. Denmark envisions a world where the right to self-determination is a human right and people can pursue prosperity and peace on their own terms.
Country:Denmark
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Kingdom of Denmark recognizes the impact that barriers on education, healthcare, and economic opportunity have on women and girls in rural areas. Since 1915, the Danish constitution has affirmed women's right to vote, and implemented equal opportunity laws. Denmark affirms sustainable development goals (SDGs) three and five, which assert the people's rights to good health, well being, and gender equality, respectively. Although Denmark is a highly developed nation, over one-tenth of its territory is classified as rural and these necessary communities contribute not only to the economy of Denmark but our history. Denmark understands that empowering women and girls in these situations is essential to ensuring long- term sustainability. Because of this, Denmark affirms UN resolution 78/181, which asserts the importance of empowering rural women through access to education, healthcare, and decision- making. Domestically, Denmark has taken concrete steps to advance gender equality. In 2016, Denmark hosted the fourth International Women Deliver Conference, promoting implementation of the SDGs in ways that advance women’s and girls’ rights, in addition to launching initiatives to combat rape and stalking. The Kingdom of Denmark would look favorably upon resolutions that expand access to education and contribute a greater investment into rural healthcare systems, and support women’s independence through entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities. Denmark emphasizes that empowering women and girls is not only a moral obligation but a strategic investment in global peace and future stability. When women in rural communities have equal access to resources and opportunities, societies become resilient, and benefits extend across generations. The Kingdom of Denmark reaffirms its commitment to gender equality and calls upon all member states to unite in advancing the rights of women and girls so that every person, regardless of birthplace, has the opportunity to learn and lead a life with dignity.
Country:Djibouti
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The United Nations recognizes self-determination as the right for all people to live freely without external rule. Several issues continue to plague this idea such as the argument over the righteousness of sovereignty, colonial rule, and a struggle for stable governments. In 1960, The United Nations implemented the A/RES/1514 to force colonial powers to allow independence upon colonial countries and their peoples. Djibouti wholly asserts the principles of self-determination as well, as evident in the domestic 1958 Referendum and the 1967 Referendum, wherein voters had two separate opportunities to declare independence or remain part of the French Republic, and a third referendum was held in 1977 leading to Djibouti's independence from France. Moreover, Djibouti has established law number 103/AN/24/9ème L, which aims to strengthen the means of Anit-corruption in the multi-party system, strengthening the principles of self-determination within the domestic government. Djibouti strongly believes that the UN should strive to further encourage free and fair referendums in non-self-governing states, as support from the international community is imperative to the success of these referendums, as well as to increasing accountability on countries to honor these principles. Djibouti urges the international body to continue to provide a strong framework to ensure stability within the government, supply adequate jobs to increase economic empowerment, and promote peace and stability. Addressing these needs would increase the stability between the people and government, further achieving the goal of self-determination. Djibouti looks forward to collaborating to build on the growing right of the people to self-determination.
Country:Djibouti
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
As complications with gender gaps, women’s economic empowerment, and the lack of formal education continue to be present in many rural areas throughout the world, Djibouti believes that it is essential that preventative measures are taken to prevent further occurrences of these. Support from partnerships with the United Nations Development Programme and The Convention of the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination have promoted ways for women in rural areas to generate an income and have made progress in protecting their rights. Djibouti supported the United Nations General Assembly adoption of the A/RES/62/136 in December 2007, to assist all women and girls in rural areas facing poverty, health concerns, and technology deficits. Djibouti has established internal measures such as, The Electoral Law of 1992, which gave all Djibouti citizens the right to vote, provided that they are of the specified age regardless of gender, financial standing, and land ownership. Furthermore, Djibouti has implemented the “Vision 2035” plan, which aims to focus on training young women to enter the workforce, using technology to advance the country economically and continuing to close the gender gap in Djibouti's workforce. Although levels of literacy for both men and women are important and expanding worldwide, it is crucial that the necessary technology and resources to help develop a higher literacy rate are continued to be provided by the international body. Additionally, strengthening food security, decreasing poverty rates, and combating climate change must be addressed to support the growing agricultural industry, which women continue to play a strong role in. Djibouti looks forward to working jointly with the UN to continue to increase women's roles in technological advances, funding agricultural programs and improving the quality of education provided for young women.
Country:Egypt
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Throughout recent history, the principle of self-determination has been established as one of the most essential ideals in the United Nations Charter: the basis of choosing one’s own government. Historically, nations under colonization were deprived of their self- determination until decolonization began in the 20th century, enabling them to rightfully exercise sovereignty. However, despite self-determination being a vital ideal for nation- states worldwide, global territory disputes, nations' sovereignty, and the pursuit of independence for many remain an issue today. As of today, there remain 1.7 million people still without self-governing governments. Egypt is committed to fostering international peace and accomplishing the right of self-determination for all people.
The Arab Republic of Egypt, after decades of colonial rule under the British Empire, eventually achieved its rightful independence and actively endorses the right of peoples to self-determination. Not only does Egypt demonstrate this through the support of the United Nations Charter, which adopted Resolution 1514 that focused on decolonization, ultimately leading to the support of self-determination, but also through the support of the African Union, which supports and promotes good governance and the protection of security and human rights. Egypt also further emphasizes self-determination for the Palestinian people of Israel. Egypt supports the formation of an independent State of Palestine, as well as all nations in non-self-governing territories. On an international level, Egypt encourages the right of peoples to self-determination for peace and regional stability, which eventually evolves into global peace.
Egypt is committed to upholding its ideals of self-determination. Egypt calls upon the United Nations to intensify its efforts to realize the rights of peoples to self-determination. This can be achieved through support of peaceful negotiations between territories of disputes. Egypt also supports the UN’s cooperation to promote sovereignty regionally such as organizations like African Union and the Arab League to aid in resolving conflicts and solving resolutions. This proposal by Egypt would collaborate with the United Nations to reinforce self-determination while promoting regional stability.
Country:Egypt
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Across the world, women face unimaginable hardships and barriers due to factors like discrimination, violence, and poverty. More specifically, women in rural areas are disproportionately disadvantaged due to inaccessibility to resources, education, and housing insecurity on account of climate change. Although worldwide, women make up 43% of agricultural workers, less than 20% of landholders are women. The lack of ownership, land degradation, and unequal rights leads to displacement and food insecurity. The Arab Republic of Egypt recognizes the inequality and dangers that women, especially those who live in rural areas, face daily. It is of the utmost importance to Egypt to continue working towards enacting effective resolutions to better the treatment of women across the globe.
Egypt continuously supports the United Nations proposals and resolutions aimed at improving living conditions for women in rural areas, such as through the resolution “Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas” from 2017. This report outlines the work and progress member states are making to support women in rural areas and to ensure their inclusion in the United Nations plans for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Egypt is dedicated to upholding Egypt’s Vision of 2030, which outlines our goals towards an equal society for both men and women while economically empowering women. The Arab Republic of Egypt proposes a similar policy to the United Nations aimed at promoting and supporting the economic stability for women in rural areas. We recommend a proposal where land ownership for women is prioritized to create more equality and economic stability for women. Egypt encourages member states to consider creating a team of specialists to promote and implement these initiatives. This proposal would work alongside the United Nations efforts to support women in rural areas and to improve their situations.
Country:El Salvador
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The topics before the Third Committee are the universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination and the improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas. The Republic of El Salvador is committed to welcoming other states in partnership to create and further efforts of equality both domestically and abroad.
Universal Realization of the Right of Peoples to Self-Determination The Republic of El Salvador acknowledges the right of all peoples to self-determination. Self- determination is valued by The Republic of El-Salvador for our own involvement in conflicts for self-determination that began with our own founding in 1841. We are committed to ensuring the continuance and creation of democratic governance in our own country and others. We recognize that the power of a government arises from its citizens, and have enshrined the right of our citizens to ensure the proper exercise of democratic government in our 1983 constitution through insurrection and political participation. We are a proud participant in the Summit of the Americas conferences which have since their founding in 1994 stressed the importance of ensuring democratic governance in the Americas. The Republic of El Salvador is an author on the 2018 Draft Resolution “Universal realization of the right of peoples to self- determination.” We also supported the resolution “The right of the Palestinian people to self- determination” in 2024, and continue to support and author resolutions regarding the right to self determination in various United Nations bodies. The Republic of El-Salvador calls on nations to ensure the exercise of free democratic governance in themselves and their neighbors.
Country:El Salvador
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Improvement of the Situation of Women and Girls in Rural Areas The Republic of El Salvador recognizes the importance of our citizens, specifically women and girls, in rural areas of the nation. In recent years, we have taken great strides towards minimizing the gender pay gap, opposing violence against women, and advocating for women’s rights. In our 1950 Constitution, we established legal equality between men and women. Additionally, we established a legislative decree in 1995 to protect women against violence in Article II of the “Comprehensive Special Law for a Life Free of Violence for Women” (LEI). Most recently, the United Nations’ member state in El Salvador collaborated with the government to create the “De Una! Transforming My Community” program. Sponsored by the UN Peacebuilding Fund, this program has empowered women and girls to advocate against violence. It has also created economic opportunities for women and girls in rural areas, and connected them with their communities. The Republic of El Salvador acknowledges the need for more initiatives and legislation toward this effort. As such, we desire to continue partnership with the government to create more programs advancing women and girls’ education in rural regions. We hope to encourage education for young women by potentially partnering with other nations and organizations.
Country:Ethiopia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
In the years since the founding of the United Nations, the international community has made great progress toward realizing the universal right of peoples to self-determination. Yet this principle continues to face challenges as nations navigate questions of identity, governance, and development in a changing world. The delegation of Ethiopia reaffirms that the right of peoples to self-determination is a universal and inalienable principle, firmly rooted in the Charter of the United Nations and international law. Ethiopia maintains that self-determination and national sovereignty, including territorial integrity, are principles that must advance together. One cannot be secured by undermining the other. When communities are included in the political, economic, and cultural life of their countries, self- determination is realized from within rather than imposed from outside. Ethiopia emphasizes that disputes over governance or identity must be resolved through peaceful negotiation, not violence. The delegation supports all multilateral efforts to promote dialogue, inclusivity, and conflict prevention. When countries share resources, fair and balanced agreements can turn potential conflicts into opportunities for cooperation and shared growth. We also recognize the importance of assisting peoples still living under colonial rule or foreign occupation and encourage the continued work of the United Nations in supporting their legitimate aspirations. Instruments such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples offer constructive guidance for realizing self-determination within existing states while preserving peace and unity. Ethiopia calls upon the international community to strengthen multilateralism and consistency in upholding this principle. Only by ensuring that self-determination and sovereignty progress together can the world achieve a stable and equitable international order.
Country:Ethiopia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The delegation of Ethiopia celebrates the work the United Nations, particularly the UN sustainability committee, has done to improve the situations of women and girls in rural areas. The Accelerating Progress Toward the Economic Empowerment of Rural Women program has been beneficial to us and has made improvements for rural women and girls. We want to acknowledge the support we’ve received in our development of agriculture for women in rural areas, especially through the Gender Transformative Climate Smart Agriculture and Agri–Business Project. We also would like to express our gratitude for our partnership with the SDG Fund, as together we have improved food and economic security for women in these areas. Though significant strides have been made, we call upon the UN to continue upon this work. The UN should support the continued funding and further funding of programs which aid the economic development of women and girls in rural areas. Programs supporting these initiatives have led to great success for countries like ours and are highly effective in improving the situation of women in rural areas. The delegation of Ethiopia also recognizes the central role women and girls play in rural areas play in climate change. They both have some of the most to lose from the devastating effects of climate change and can play a very integral role in the solution to the conflict. Finally, the delegation of Ethiopia calls upon the UN to add focus to their human rights goals for women in rural communities. Along with previously mentioned goals, the UN should focus on improving their health outcomes, and their rights to access land. Both of these initiatives have been overlooked in the past, as women living in rural areas have less access to medical personnel, and have more recently than men gained autonomy in land ownership.
Country:Finland
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of Finland has consistently supported the rights of all peoples to reach self- determination. Finland supports the idea of no discrimination, and supports civil and political rights of minorities. Finland fully supports international humanitarian law and the UN Declaration of Human Rights. As a sovereign state, Finland has the right to defend its own political status and to develop its social, economical and cultural values without external interference. Specifically, Finland fully supports Ukrainian self-determination in their struggle against the illegal Russian invasion. As a member of the European Union Finland fully supports all EU policies such as the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
Country:Finland
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Finland recognizes the importance of improving the situation women and girls in rural areas face. Insisting upon gender equality and empowerment of all women and girls is a fundamental human right that is essential for sustainable development. In a world where citizens are being told to speak up and share their voices with those that will listen, it is important for all genders to be heard equally and given the same rights. Under the Constitution of Finland (732/1999), Finland participates in international cooperation for the protection of peace and human rights and for the development of society. Women's rights and gender equality are both specifically listed as priorities in Finland’s international human rights policy. Through strategic influence on human rights and gender equality, Finland has led the way and made way for the United Nations to see the benefits and begin focusing on women, those with disabilities, etc. being included in, not only the organization itself, but the conversations being had as well. Finland believes that by incorporating more human rights and gender equality acts, women and girls will be further incorporated into society and given a greater voice.
Country:France
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Goal 10 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals aims to “reduce inequality within and among countries.” This target was introduced in 2016, but reports of discrimination are rising globally, and the global refugee population has risen to a staggering 37.8 million. As stated in Article 1 of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” The United Nations has helped over 49,000 torture survivors in 93 countries receive direct support. While there have been many successes in self-determination recently, additional goals and targets can be implemented to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Since the enactment of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen in 1789, France has not strayed from its efforts to uphold human rights and values enshrined in the vital declaration. The French Republic is solely devoted to the promotion of the growth of human rights, with the belief that every person has inherent rights and freedoms. In 2024, the French bill “controlling immigration while improving integration” was enacted by President Macron, which fast-tracked the asylum process and simplified administrative immigration litigation. The French government also enacted the Humanitarian Strategy of the French Republic in 2023, seeking to promote international humanitarian law, increase food security, protect children, and much more.
The French Republic believes that strengthening legislation designed to combat inequalities and discrimination would be crucial to ensuring universal self-determination. With the establishment of a global support organization designed to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity, interactions between governments and self-determination movements can be executed in a peaceful manner.
The French Republic is confident in the ability of this Committee to ensure human rights that can pave the way for self-determination internationally. This inalienable right should be provided for every human being to ensure equality and prosperity for all. The French Republic recommends that the international community needs to increase funding and resources for UN programs that provide direct support to refugees and torture survivors.
Country:France
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The 5th United Nations Sustainable Development Goal seeks to “achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.” This goal, while noble in its targets, has unfortunately not made much progress in thirty years. The United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, also known as UN Women, is an organization determined to create policies and standards that uphold women’s rights. The French Republic acknowledges the dire necessity of all women and girls to be protected and equally represented. We also recognize the differing values of various cultures, which makes global cooperation crucial to accomplishing the objective of gender equality.
The promotion of women’s and girls’ rights is at the forefront of France’s priorities. This value is made evident through the adoption of our feminist foreign policy in 2019. Gender equality is an indispensable goal required for the well-being of France. The Republic of France has 88.9 percent of the necessary laws and systems that are vital for the support of gender equality. In honor of International Women’s Rights Day this year, France has launched the International Strategy for Feminist Foreign Policy, bringing together French society and international organizations.
The French Republic is a sole believer in increasing opportunities for women and girls in rural societies to have universal access to quality education and employment. Such an objective can be achieved through vocational training and access to educational materials and childcare. The Republic of France has confidence in this Committee and believes that with cooperation and collaboration, much can be accomplished to ensure the success and thriving of women and girls all over the world. The French Republic calls upon the international community to report regularly on its progress and challenges in implementing gender equality policies, while strengthening the monitoring and promotion of human rights for women and girls.
Country:Georgia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Georgia promotes the rights of a country’s people to self-determination, notably in the context of territorial integrity. Throughout a treacherous history of land disputes, Georgia, now more than ever, emphasizes the importance of and encourages the pursuit of self- determination throughout the globe. As a result of decades' worth of land disputes regarding the previously Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, Georgia takes a firm stance in the unification of Georgian territory under one nation and Georgian identity. Georgia’s primary priority is to pursue and safeguard the territorial integrity of all regions under its nation. Georgia actively pursues representation in NATO and is currently viewed as one of NATO’s largest allies. Officially being recognized as a candidate in 2008, Georgia continues to move forward in it’s efforts to safeguard it’s sovereignty despite ongoing challenges and advocate for NATO membership with high public support. However, due to fluctuating definitions of “people” as per the United Nations, Georgia urges the definition of “people” per the articles of the Charter signed by the United Nations Organization on June 26, 1945. If all people have a right to self-determination, representation under self-determination is bound to conflict. Nonetheless, Georgia advocates and commits itself to representing the best interests of its people united through its formally occupied area.
Country:Georgia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Georgia remains committed to the improvement of the condition of women and girls in rural areas, as demonstrated through the association with the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women). Women in Georgia comprise more than half of the rural population in the nation, with many who engage in the workforce by means of the agricultural sector. Providing safe and structured practices in the workforce for rural women is vital to Georgian interests, as women in the agricultural sector provide a substantial portion of the work that goes into efforts in that area. Additionally, in keeping with the nation's traditional practices and recognizing the importance of the roles of mothers in Georgian homes, having adequate access to basic services such as clean water, waste disposals, public transportation, healthcare facilities, early education centers for children, local roads, and similar services are efforts that Georgia seeks to provide for women in these areas. As Georgia seeks to impact rural women and girls by means of support in the home and community, the nation seeks to provide assistance strictly in that sector, viewing the larger economic and political realm as an area that should be left up to the traditional structure of society, having men as the authority regarding domestic and international matters. This is demonstrated through the Georgian legislature removing mandatory electoral quotas for women in 2024, celebration of recently established “Family Purity Day” in the nation, as well our nation’s ties to the Georgian Orthodox Church, seeking to protect traditional roles at home and in Georgian communities. Georgia calls on all nations to protect traditional roles in society and provide for the women in rural areas across the globe in ways that they need at home and in their communities, as they are the backbone of the family and support many different aspects of highly relished cultural practices in many countries across the world today.
Country:Germany
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
In recent years, the world has witnessed a severe direction change in the case of self determination. While some citizens have had wild success in promoting self determination and publicly supporting it, others have had to fight to be heard. Rallies and protests around the world have certainly highlighted the view of the people on the matter, and now it is our time to act in favor of the oppressed. We recognize the UN taking steps in favorable directions, in resolution 1541 in creation of education programs, and we wish to see this further. This committee hopes to see these ideals proliferate to other states to better support the individual citizen desiring expression. We are committed to seeing local and national change in favor of self determination as we have begun locally in legislation, and we urge our fellow delegates who have not brought this idea to the table to do the same. Additionally, we are willing and able to assist states in drafting new laws and regulation on the topic if they so desire.
Country:Germany
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
We firmly advocate for the improvement of women and girls in rural areas. Because their advancement is essential to achieving sustainable development and equality. We recognize that rural women often face barriers to things like education and the healthcare system, therefore we prioritize initiatives that promote gender equality, specifically striving for progress in rural areas and addressing the essential needs of these communities. As a member of international bodies such as UN Women and the Commission on the Status of Women, we actively contribute to many efforts that expand the resource availability to these women and girls. Because of this involvement, we have seen a recent increase and focus on resource availability for these women and girls, and Germany invests in women and girls through membership in these organizations, which then builds opportunities for education and leadership. This can help reduce poverty and improve socioeconomic conditions. We urge other nations to take similar action to promote inclusive progress on the global stage.
Country:Greece
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Hellenic Republic currently resides under a presidential republic, but this was not always the case. The Greek people have experienced government styles that did not recognize the will of the people it represented, just as many other Member States have in their history, and as such, affirms the right of peoples to self-determination as enshrined in the United Nations charter and the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, as surely all Member States do.
It is a commonly, and correctly, held belief that countries are more stable and work for the benefit of their populations when they are representative of the people who reside within their borders. Greece specifically emphasizes self-determination as a mode to prevent civil unrest and conflict that would result in peoples being unable to safely remain in their country of origin. All peoples should have the right to live in a unified country with the people whom they share strong ethnic and other identifying ties to. Living in the state that one’s ancestors also resided in should be a given and not a privilege, to be enjoyed by all regardless of country of origin. This ideal can be seen in the current Palestine-Israel conflict. It is in the best interest of all Member States to not only work to end the conflict, but also to recognize that the Palestinian people also have the right to self-determination. All Member States enjoy the right of sovereignty and self-determination, and as such, surely understand the importance of preserving these rights and extending them to all peoples of the world.
Country:Greece
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The topic of women and girls rights has been a prominent issue in the world for centuries. In the Hellenic Republic of Greece, women’s rights have always been limited. Their property was controlled by men, marriage was arranged by the father and groom, and women were supposed to work in the home. Women first won the right to full and equal voting in 1952, and more rights have been given since. However, rural women still hold traditional values and do not have the same rights as urban women.
Greece recognizes gender equality as a cornerstone of democracy and prosperity. Greece has been working on addressing gender pay gaps, workplace discrimination, increasing female representation in political, economic, and social leadership roles, and promoting women’s employment through the National Action Plan for Gender Equality (NAPGE) 2021– 2025. Greece recognizes that the progress of equal rights for women and girls in rural areas has been limited due to historical and cultural barriers and aims to give equal job opportunities and quality education to all. Greece is also tightening their domestic violence laws due to increased reports and increased femicides.
Greece fully supports the EU's 2024 directive on domestic violence and believes that this has the potential to be expanded globally. Additionally, Greece aims to raise awareness and address challenges faced by women farmers through various initiatives and policy changes during the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026. With Gender Equality being one of the 30 Sustainable Development Goals to accomplish by 2030, every member state should strive to achieve equality between everyone, especially for women and girls.
Country:Guyana
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Guyana is dedicated to enhancing self-determination for all citizens. Having opportunities to expand knowledge within the country creates avenues for citizens of all backgrounds. One of the best ways Guyana plans to open avenues for self-determination is through increased quality of education. The Government of Guyana explains that this goal is necessary to, “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” With expanded opportunities, Guyana expects to see increases with the culture of peace and a decrease in violence. Another aspect of self-determination that the Government of Guyana acknowledges is the fact that the country is experiencing technological advancements. President Ali spoke to the public highlighting that, “the government’s commitment to balancing technological advancements with the need for a well-rounded, self-reliant education system…prepares students for…digital age and the development of essential life skills.” The President knows that technological advancements, including “AI” will be present in the education systems in the future, but he wants to ensure these advancements will not harm students developing analytical skills. Guyana plans to support students’ education with technological advancements through efforts to, “substantially increase the supply of qualified teachers.” Increasing the quality of education through skilled teachers will help achieve Guyana’s goals of self-determination for the country. The Government hopes that through these efforts, Guyana will be able to create a society filled with independent citizens who know how to engage politically, have sustainable lifestyles, and experience human rights and gender equality within a culture of peace.
“Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education | United Nations in Guyana.” Guyana.un.org, guyana.un.org/en/sdgs/4. “President Ali Highlights Balance between Technology and Self-Development in Education.” NCN Guyana, 20 Nov. 2024, ncnguyana.com/2023/president-ali-highlights-balance-between- technology-and-self-development-in-education/. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025. “Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education | United Nations in Guyana.” Guyana.un.org, guyana.un.org/en/sdgs/4.
Country:Guyana
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
In rural areas around the world, many face poverty and lower income financial situations compared to their counterparts who live in urban areas. The same goes for women and girls in the country of Guyana. Women and girls in the rural areas of Guyana are faced with limited economic opportunities as they are disconnected from urban areas where there are more job and schooling opportunities. Additionally, many women and girls are subject to domestic work as well as physical laborious work that often goes unpaid. Many women and girls are required to do work instead of obtaining an education so opportunities to work their way up in society are slim. The women and girls within Guyana are also faced with significant threats of violence and they are more subject to economic violence than those in urban areas of the country. On the other hand, women and girls in rural areas were less likely to experience emotional violence compared to urban and suburban women within the Guyana. The numbers for women and girls in rural areas facing economic violence was reported to be twenty four percent compared to sixteen percent in urban areas. In addition to this, the emotional violence that was experienced by women and girls was forty six percent in urban and suburban areas compared to that of thirty eight percent of those living in rural and hinterland areas of Guyana. Guyana supports women and girls by pulling them out of the conditions of poverty and reducing crime so that they can lead more fulfilling lives. The future of women and girls in Guyana and the conditions they currently live in are not only a representation of what can be improved, but it shows the world that we as a society can do better for the people that live in our communities so that our world can be a more opportunistic place without the threat of violence.
Guyana Women’s Health and Life Experiences ..., guyana.un.org/sites/default/files/2020- 07/Guyana_Womens_H_and_E_Survey_Report_1.pdf. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.
“Sustainable Development Goals in Guyana.” United Nations, United Nations, guyana.un.org/en/sdgs. Accessed 20 Oct. 2025.
Country:Honduras
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Across the world and on every continent, minority groups are being politically and socially repressed. They are barred from political participation, or they are not fairly represented in their participation. In 2024, 236 human rights defenders were either harassed or attacked in Honduras, and 13 human rights defenders were killed. Their only crime was fighting for a nation that respected their right to self determination. A core tenet of the United Nations as stated in Chapter I, Article 1 (2) of the UN Charter, states that one of the core purposes of the UN is to develop friendly relations among all nations based on a respect for the "principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples". If this tenet is truly a goal of this organization, then we should seek out a firm recognition by all member states of their intention to promote self determination, political representation, and universal suffrage. Any member state's failure to affirm this resolution would not only render a stain upon their international recognition as a state of proper governance and intention, but would be a hindrance to this organization's ability to carry out its stated goal of developing friendly relations built upon a respect for universal suffrage.
Country:Honduras
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
As the world progresses and more empowered women enter the workforce, climb their way up ranks, and establish themselves in male-dominated fields, Honduras is still frozen in time. Women in Honduras, especially in rural areas, are stuck in a nightmare of poverty, misogyny, and lack of opportunities and rights. The average number of years of education a child in Honduras receives is four years. The average number of years of education a girl in rural Honduras receives is less than three years. The global average does not even need to be mentioned to identify that there is a problem, but for reference, the global average is 12 years. Women are not allowed to make their own decisions and are only expected to marry, bear children, and adhere to men’s rules. They are discouraged from pursuing an education and a career. This is a direct violation of basic human rights - the right to life, liberty, freedom of opinion, work, education, and more. Some women are already fighting against the norm. Organizations such as Venicos Honduras try to take down cultural barriers and provide networking for women. However, help from the government is still greatly needed. Honduras
calls for assistance from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and more funding to implement more laws that reinforce educational rights of women and develop rural Honduras. Without the proper efforts to fully emancipate and provide suffrage to the most isolated and disconnected of the world's women, we will have failed to have fully represented the peoples of our various nations and peoples as we sought to do in our chartering of this organization.
Country:Hungary
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Our government firmly asserts the rights of self determination which we define as the ability to express oneself and preserve one’s national identity. We reaffirm the previous claims made in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities (1992), declaring that identities of minorities in other countries should be protected by the state. Approximately 1.7 million ethnic Hungarians live in Romania, Slovakia, Serbia, and Ukraine according to the Research Institute for Hungarian Communities Abroad (MKKI). It is paramount that these communities have the freedom to preserve their language, sense of nationalism, and cultural identity as a whole, for this will remain a priority. We staunchly support this idea, and ask the United Nations to define cultural autonomy and ensure the protection of minority rights.
We further emphasize that self-determination should coexist with respect to national sovereignty and are skeptical of any external interference from intergovernmental agencies in regard to domestic affairs involving foreign members and autonomy. Our nation values cultural identity and shared civic principles, and we encourage all members within our borders to participate. We additionally strongly oppose the use of foreign military interventions and sanctions on other countries as well. Diplomacy and negotiation are the only manner in which conflict can truly be solved, and this method must be carried out in the UN when handling decolonization, for solutions must be negotiated for an outcome to be of merit.
In conclusion, we call upon the United Nations to create a framework that establishes the relationship and defines the balance between state sovereignty and self-determination. This framework must ensure the protection of minority rights while preserving the independence of existing member states.
Country:Hungary
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The country of Hungary fully supports the improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas around the globe. In Resolution A/RES/48/109 Member states were urged to integrate rural women’s needs into national development programmes, as well as strengthen institutions concerned with rural development, and also improve women’s access to productive resources. Furthermore, we welcome the UN to help women succeed in all aspects of their life. We would like to see women across the globe be treated equally by their government, by their employers, and peers. We focus attention on the need for a nuclear family in rural areas and would like to see all member states help women who have many children. We hope to see all member states give tax breaks and create NGOs that can help benefit and promote a nuclear family and help rural women by giving them valuable resources. Ultimately we suggest member states uphold adopted resolution A/RES/48/109. We encourage the member states of the UN to give tax breaks, create NGOs that will provide women resources and help build a supportive community for rural women. Which can benefit and promote a nuclear family lifestyle as well as help mothers, women, and girls in rural areas.
Country:India
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of India understands the pressing importance of the right of peoples to self- determination. WIth a long history of colonization, the Republic of India firmly believes that all peoples and nations deserve the right to self-determination and self-governance.
The Republic of India believes self-determination of a nation against foreign domination and influence is of great importance. In the interest of national unity and risk of fragmentation, disintegration, and dismemberment of a nation, The Republic of India firmly believes that the right of self determination of independent and sovereign regions of a nation do not apply. In accordance with the United Nations Charter, Article 2(7), These matters are strictly under the jurisdiction of that region’s national government.
With the past ever present in our minds, The Republic of India has made countless strides to ensure the right of self determination to all within our borders. Despite a large and growing population, The Republic of India takes pride in our reduced dependence on imports, growing domestic manufacturing and ability for rapid mobilization and self-sufficiency in times of need. The Republic of India also firmly believes that a person’s individual self-determination is necessary and essential for the success of a nation. The General Assembly resolutions 1514 (XV) and 1541 (XV) declares that the subjugation, exploitation, and domination of a people is contrary to the UN charter and a hindrance to the goal of world peace. The Republic of India keeps these resolutions in mind as we continue to urge all member states to cease colonial rule of foreign peoples.
The Republic of India looks forward to a future where all nations can exist without foreign occupation or influence. The Republic of India hopes that we can work with the 3rd General Assembly to achieve this goal.
Country:India
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of India recognizes the importance of improving women and girls quality of life in rural areas, especially as over 60% of our population resides in non-urban areas. We acknowledge the importance of our rural population in regards to sustaining our economy, as well as understanding the gaps in women and girls' access to certain economic prospects, education, and resources.
The Republic of India's objective of improving the condition of our rural areas aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5 as it concerns issues of gender based discrimination against women. We understand the importance of equal access to land ownership and resources in rural areas regardless of gender as outlined in SDG 5.a and in SDG 5.a.1. In response to concerns about gender based discrimination in rural and agricultural areas, the Republic of India has passed multiple laws to promote gender equality, and supports many efforts by the United Nation to improve the situation of women and girls in rural areas. In a 2017 General Assembly 3rd Committee meeting, India signed on to draft resolution A/RES/74/126, which outlines actions Member States should take to support marginalized rural communities in relation to access to medical, social, and educational resources, as well as forming strategies to prevent gender violence and child marriage.
We have made strides towards economically supporting women and girls in agricultural communities through the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) that was passed in 2005. This act provides at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment to every household that volunteers to do “unskilled manual work”, which in turn certifies that women will get paid for their work. This is also a step towards eliminating gender- based work discrimination.
By providing resources and outreach programs to rural areas, all nations will be able to move towards a better future. The Republic of India is committed to a solution-based response to this issue, and looks forward to working with all Member States to achieve this goal.
Country:Indonesia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Self-determination remains important for Indonesia and the broader international community. As a nation that emerged from colonization, we see ourselves as required to fight for sovereignty. Our struggle for independence taught us the importance of unity among diversity. With over 17,000 islands and various ethnic and religion groups, Indonesia has grown into one unified political entity. Although independence was recognized in 1949, historical legacies of separate sovereign kingdoms and cultural identities have impacted regional self-determination movements in Aceh, East Timor, and West Papua. These cases underline the tension between territorial integrity, as mentioned in Article 2 (4) of the UN Charter and the right to self- determination as segmented in General Assembly Resolution 1514 (1960) and Resolution 2625 (1970). Indonesia has worked within international law and UN bodies to address these challenges. The independence of East Timor in 2002 through a UN supervised referendum showed Indonesia’s willingness to cooperate with the international community. In Aceh, the 2005 Helsinki Agreement ended decades of conflict by granting wide autonomy through Law No. 11/2006. Similarly, in West Papua, Law No. 21/2001 on Special Autonomy ensures local representation and welfare. Indonesia acknowledges that international engagement has been uneven, with some conflicts receiving attention while other remains overlooked. Moving forward, Indonesia calls the Third Committee to ensure impartiality in addressing self- determination by focusing on human rights, economic justice, and cultural respect rather than secession. Indonesia proposes strengthening cooperation between the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and Member States to monitor sensitive regions, expanding UN technical assistance in post conflict and marginalized areas, and encouraging dialogue-based solutions that uphold sovereignty while addressing local grievances. Indonesia remains committed to peaceful solutions that safeguard both human rights and global stability.
Country:Indonesia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Indonesia recognizes that women and girls in rural areas are important to national development, food security, and social stability. In Indonesia, rural women constitute an important part of the agricultural workforce and makes a huge contribution to household income and community resilience. However, Indonesia continues to face structural barriers such as limited access to land ownership, credit, education, healthcare, and participation in decision making processes. Addressing these inequities is both a human rights urgency and important to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Indonesia reaffirms its commitment to international bodies that safeguard the rights of rural women. The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW, 1979) requires states to ensure gender equality, including in rural areas. The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) recognized rural women as a critical area of concern. Similarly, General Assembly Resolution 70/135 (2015), and the Commission on the Status of Women’s 56th Session (2012) addressed the empowerment of rural women and girls. Indonesia has positioned its national priorities with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially SDG 5 on gender equality and SDG 10 on reducing inequalities. Domestically, Indonesia has advances gender mainstreaming through programs such as Desa Ramah Perempuan (woman friendly village program), the Village Funds initiative supporting maternal and child health, and policies promoting women’s participation in village governance. Moving Forward, Indonesia encourages the United Nation system including UNICEF, UNESCO, UN Women to enhance cooperation in increasing access to land, technology, and financial resources, improving rural infrastructure, education, and health care, and strengthening women’s representation in governance. Indonesia remains committed to international cooperation and to empowering rural women as equal partners in sustainable development and nation building.
Country:Iran, Islamic Republic of
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Islamic Republic of Iran firmly supports and recognizes the importance of the right to self-determination, as outlined in Article 1 (2) of the UN Charter and Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. This right must continue to be protected and enforced internationally. This right must be upheld in harmony with state sovereignty and territorial integrity. In accordance with the United Nations, this right should be respected to ensure peace and security, protect future generations from wars, and foster long-lasting relationships with nations based on respect for the principles of equal rights and self-determination of peoples. We believe that self-determination can be protected by freedom from hegemony and colonialism, as well as by safeguarding a nation's individual sovereignty and right to govern itself. Historically, the Islamic Republic of Iran has continuously been one of the pioneers in combating both colonialism and extremism, and has supported the UN Charter since it was signed in 1945.
We also believe that our nation's nuclear program is more than just a technological or military project; it is a concrete expression of sovereignty, self-determination, and national dignity. As we have stated, the nuclear program is essential not only to resist any attempt at domination or dispossession but also as an embodiment of the capacity to develop independent science and industry. As our Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has stated under direct decree, the use of nuclear weapons is strongly prohibited in our nation. To renounce this right, not only would it diminish our right to self-determination, but it would also submit to foreign pressures while simultaneously facing continuous sanctions and threats.
Country:Iraq
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The human tragedy in Gaza underscores now more than ever the need to address and support the decisions of those advocating for their own freedom. The Republic of Iraq recognizes that ensuring the right of self-determination can further advance relations between nations, an important pillar of the UN Charter. The Republic of Iraq has shown its support for self-determination over the years through its efforts in the United Nations. In 1983, we voted “yes” on a General Assembly resolution regarding the right to self- determination. The Republic of Iraq stands by this resolution and its emphasis on the “speedy granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples for the effective guarantee and observance of human rights.”
When Timor-Leste lobbied for self-determination, the Republic of Iraq aided in helping draft a working paper for the United Nations Security Council, which confirmed the people of East Timor had an inalienable right to self-determination. In the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Iraq addressed the congregation and emphasized support for the Palestinian people in their right to self-determination. That same support has and will continue as the question of Palestinian statehood by some becomes more pressing with the continued war in Gaza. Israel has repeatedly broken ceasefire agreements and continued to block aid from reaching people in the Gaza Strip. The Palestinian people need to have a voice in the global sphere through the recognition of their right to self-determination.
With these past resolutions in mind considering the current political climate of the world, the Republic of Iraq reaffirms our stance now more than ever that the United Nations must step up and advocate for those under occupation and for those who are consistently having their human rights violated to reaffirm their universal right to self- determination. The Republic of Iraq is prepared to collaborate with other like-minded nations to carry out the goal of recognizing and supporting those seeking self- determination.
Country:Iraq
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Iraq reaffirms its commitment to advancing the rights and situation of women and girls in rural areas. The Republic of Iraq recognizes that empowering women and girls in rural areas is essential to achieving social advancement and sustainable national development. Rural women face unique challenges, including limited access to education, employment, and financial resources. These issues have been influenced not only by climate change but also by conflicts and displacement. The Republic of Iraq is actively addressing these issues by working closely with United Nations agencies dedicated to the empowerment of women.
As climate change increasingly impacts women in rural areas, the Republic of Iraq has worked closely with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), which trained women under the “Climate Wise Women” initiative. This program will help support transitions in the agricultural sector. The women trained through this program will reach out to rural communities in the central and southern governorates, in particular Muthanna and Najaf. The Women’s Social Protection Department continues to support widowed and vulnerable women by providing training and financial support to help them establish small businesses and enter the workforce. In addition, we are enhancing social safety nets to support vulnerable groups, including rural youth, the elderly, and people with special needs. Through collaboration with UN Women and UNDP, Iraq is expanding access to livelihood and protection services, particularly for women returnees in Nineveh and Mosul.
Despite progress, the Republic of Iraq acknowledges the challenges that rural women and girls face, particularly regarding climate change, economic stability, and access to infrastructure. The Republic of Iraq supports efforts that expand funding for women’s empowerment, strengthen rural women’s role in climate adaptation, and promote dialogue on climate-resilient agriculture. Iraq stands ready to work with Member States, UN agencies, and NGOs to ensure rural women and girls are empowered in national development and safeguarded from conflict and climate impacts.
Country:Ireland
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Self-determination grants people the independence to choose their own form of government, allowing their region to be officially recognized as being independent from their country. The core principles of self-determination are to develop peaceful relations between nations and to minimize the escalation of conflict between regions. These regions speak their own languages and have their own cultures. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of self-determination so that people have the right to choose their own political independence, along with respecting a state’s borders. The United Nations has made significant efforts in addressing universal problems involving different countries and regions.
Self-determination can create tension between regions trying to break away from their countries. The war between Ukraine and Russia showed how self-determination can create conflict. The war between them was ultimately about Ukraine seeking self- determination due to Russia threatening Ukraine’s sovereignty. These disputes typically arise when a region desires self-determination, and countries fear self-determination because it threatens their borders along with their internal stability. A government accepting a region’s wish for independence can result in a loss of resources and influence for that country. Another example of the United Nations resolving conflict between countries is the Isreal-Palestine conflict. To resolve this conflict, the United Nations utilized diplomatic effort and encouraged a ceasefire, eventually convincing both regions to agree to a resolution in 1947. The United Nations can implement meditative and negotiation strategies when facilitating peaceful conversations between nations.
Some countries, such as Ireland, may be sympathetic to the concept of self-determination due to historical, cultural, and political factors. A desire for self-determination can normally be seen as a threat towards a country because of the associated risks, but countries may allow self-determination if they are more concerned with promoting peace and stability. Allowing ethnic groups to claim their rights to self-independence benefits a country by preventing any conflicts from arising within their borders. In some countries, self-determination may be beneficial in addressing identity concerns, which can create a more inclusive environment within their political system.
The United Nations addresses pressing concerns about regions being forced against pursuing self-governance by shifting their focus to places that lack the independence for self-determination. Some of the non-self-governing territories that the United Nations has been focusing their efforts on include the Western Sahara, Bermuda, and Guma. The United Nations can promote self-determination by reducing conflict between regions and providing support to regions seeking independence, while also respecting countries’ territories.
Country:Ireland
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Efforts to improve the situation of women and girls in rural areas is a principal issue that remains at the heart of both human development and social justice around the world. The empowerment of rural women and girls is not only a moral imperative but also an economic and social necessity for sustainable development. Despite Ireland’s strong social policies and progress toward gender equality, rural women continue to face unique challenges that often remain invisible in national averages. Examples include limited access to childcare, transportation, and digital infrastructure. These instances combined with traditional gender roles and unequal landownership still restrict women’s participation in the economy and public life. Rural women and girls in Ireland, as in many developed countries, face a mix of structural advantages and persistent inequalities. The difficulties they face connect with traditional gender norms that still shape the division of unpaid care and farm work by limiting women’s time, mobility, and capacity to participate fully in economic and civic life.
The United Nations’ normative frameworks provide a clear blueprint for reform. Sustainable Development Goals 5 (SDG 5) and cross-cutting goals on decent work, reduced inequalities, and sustainable communities emphasize the need for gender- responsive rural planning. Instruments such as The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Beijing Platform for Action call for removal of legal, economic, and social barriers that prevent rural women’s full participation. For Ireland, aligning national rural development policy with these frameworks means mainstreaming gender in agricultural programs, including investing in universal childcare and eldercare in rural catchments, along with ensuring transport and broadband strategies prioritize connectivity for women-dependent households.
Practical interventions include expanding flexible, locally accessible childcare, funding small-scale infrastructure that enables women-led entrepreneurship (markets, co-ops, incubators), supporting land and business-access reforms so women can own and manage agricultural assets, and strengthening local health and educational outreach. Reverse stagnation, like gender-mainstream rural development budgets, expand public services (childcare, transport, broadband) targeted at low-density areas. It creates incentives for women-led rural enterprises, and monitor progress with gender-specific targets and accountability mechanisms. Community-led participatory planning helps ensure policies meet local needs and sustain momentum.
Key gaps include lack of routinely disaggregated data by sex, age, and geographic remoteness on time use (unpaid care), employment type (seasonal/informal), land ownership and access, digital access/quality, and barriers to service uptake. Better longitudinal and small-area surveys, plus administrative data linked by gender, would enable precise targeting.
Digital tools and AI can reduce isolation allowing telehealth, remote learning, e-commerce for crafts and farm produce, and fintech for microcredit. AI-driven analytics can identify service deserts and tailor training. Except, to be empowering, these technologies must be accessible, affordable, gender-sensitive in design (avoiding biased datasets), and paired with digital literacy and privacy protections so rural women can benefit safely and equitably.
Country:Israel
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Israel recognizes the principles of self-determination regarding people's rights to independence and external political autonomy. According to the Self-Determination Movement Dataset, over 450 ethnic groups have made claims, with a troubling 60% involving violence, exposing significant and ongoing threats to global stability. Such unrest jeopardizes the safety and security of Member States, restricting their economic growth, cultural preservation, and regional tranquility. The UN has been active in addressing this issue through numerous initiatives. Following the UN Charter and the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the UN has conducted supervised referendums and peacekeeping missions to help promote independence and stability. Additional measures, namely A/RES/78/193, A/RES/77/216 and UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007), have expanded the support for the rights of all humans to have stable social and political autonomy. Additionally, the ICJ has presented legal opinions on Western Sahara (1975), Namibia (1971), and Kosovo (2010), stressing the importance of secession through liberty, rule of law and peaceful negotiations. This principle is illustrated in Israel’s longstanding pursuit of self-determination, resulting in the establishment in the State of Israel in 1948, furthermore securing Jewish independence. Internationally, through MASHAV, Israel has provided technical assistance in agriculture, water management, and institutional development to newly independent and developing states, enhancing their ability to practice sovereignty and self-governance. Nevertheless, Israel recognizes that growing tensions between state sovereignty and political secession pose serious challenges to the authority and territorial integrity of existing governments. Given these complexities, Israel stresses the need for statehood and stability to prevent the complete disruption of self-determination. In resolution, Israel urges for the prioritization of territorial integrity and regional security in emerging frameworks to prevent instability and militant activity. Furthermore, Israel supports the expansion collaborative capacity-building initiatives through MASHAV, assisting regions in strengthening governance and innovation.
Country:Israel
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Israel is advocating for the strategic enhancement of SDGs in gender equality (SDG 5), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), and peace, justice, and strong institutions (SDG 16) as well as their enforcement to improve the situation of women and girls in rural areas of Israel and in all countries around the world. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which were adopted by the United Nations in 2015, provide a comprehensive framework for addressing global challenges, this includes poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. As a country, we have passed many legislations in support of equality and acknowledge that more can be done for our peoples, especially those in rural areas such as that of the Equal Rights of Women Law in 1951, The Equal Pay for Male and Female Workers Law in 1996, and Equal Employment Opportunity Law of 2024 to name a few examples. By aligning national policies with the SDGs, we can create a more equitable society that empowers women and girls, ushering in more sustainable development in these communities. Women and girls in rural areas of Israel face unique challenges that hinder their development and well-being. These challenges include limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Cultural norms and traditional roles also serve to restrict their participation in decision-making processes, which comes to further exacerbation of gender inequality. Addressing these issues through SDG initiatives is essential for developing a more inclusive environment where women and girls can thrive and enhance their way of life. Currently there is 65.5% of data missing in the Sustainable Development Goals for Israel which reflects that there is insufficient data available to accurately portray the situation women and girls are currently facing in rural areas our country is facing and display a need to for the implementation of measures to acquire this data to empower women and girls in our country to have their basic necessities and rights fulfilled. To see this missing data come to light Israel would like to propose more utilization of technological efforts to identify these issues and put into motion; stronger, more efficiently enforced laws that enhance the growth of SDG 5, 10, and 16. As a country that has advocated for the rights of all peoples since the early 1950s, it is in our interest, and that of the United Nations, to implement measures like those proposed or otherwise that would be most effective in acquiring the data missing seen in the Sustainable Development Goals. so that we can ensure our women and girls are empowered to their rights regardless of if they live in rural or urban areas of any country.
Country:Italy
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of Italy strongly supports the Charter of the United Nations, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries and the self-determination of peoples. One of the things we’ve been working on is to protect the rights of indigenous communities to their culture and languages. The Republic of Italy brings back the attention of all countries to admit and defend cultural rights, as elevated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other worldwide and geographical human rights implementations for successful community- based revival, reinforcing the protection and advancement of ethnic variety and ethnic legacy in all forms. We acknowledge the misapplying and the stealing of Indigenous and local population’s art and cultural heritage, as well as the creation and transaction of copied Indigenous and local communities’ art attributes to the demotion and abuse of Indigenous and local cultural heritage and culture. We encourage the international community to elevate the knowledge, stories and voices of their populations, including of persons belonging to Indigenous communities, reflecting these in their cultural institutions and fostering the development, education, and job pathways to improve self-determination and professional opportunities for them. The Republic of Italy advocated in the Security Council in 2017 to ensure the protection of cultural heritage within UNESCO. Italy has donated 6 million of Euro to build and promote human capital rooted in cultural legacy and local traditions, which is a strategic long-term investment for the African Youth Cultural Heritage. Italy reminds the international community to invest in craft training and cultural heritage conservation, which means promoting sustainable development and creating tangible opportunities for young people. Doing these things to protect the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples is a way to promote the self-determination of peoples.
Country:Italy
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Italy believes that empowering women and girls in rural areas is important to build a more just, inclusive, and sustainable society. As a committed member of the United Nations and European Union, Italy calls for action to improve the situation of women and girls in rural areas. We acknowledge that rural women play an important role in preserving and improving their communities and their livelihood systems. They are pivotal to economic and agricultural development, poverty reduction and meeting food needs. However, for the full potential of women in our society to be unlocked, we must address gender-based violence first. We acknowledge that one in three Italian women between the ages of 16 and 70 has faced physical or sexual violence. In response, in 2019, Italy enacted the Codice Russo, a law that prioritizes and accelerates legal cases of domestic and gender- based violence. In addition to this, on International Women’s Day 2025, Italy approved a draft law introducing life imprisonment for such crimes, which entered into force in June 2025 to further combat personal abuse, stalking, and sexual violence. Italy is also working to address outdated elements within the legal system and ensure that all women in all regions have equal access to justice, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. We remain concerned about the rising influence of fundamentalist ideologies that seek to limit women’s autonomy. Italy remains committed to supporting the dignity and freedom of all women and girls worldwide and reducing the gap that prevents that. The Republic of Italy calls on all nations to implement strong measures and laws to combat human trafficking, violence, and legal or social persecution of women, while also investing in their participation in society.
Country:Jordan
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
In the changing nature of society, civilians are increasingly losing their rights of self- determination. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan emphasizes the vital role of the United Nations in upholding human rights, promoting peace, and protecting the right to self- determination. We expressed deep concern over ongoing threats of foreign military intervention and the displacement of millions, as highlighted in resolutions adopted on 12/17/23 and 12/17/24. A/RES/ES - 10/22: “Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations.” - adopted during the 10th Emergency Special Session. A/RES/79/163 - The right of the Palestinian people to self-determination : resolution / adopted by the General Assembly, which clearly lays out that Jordan supports a two-state solution and the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, as well as addressing the Arab Peace Initiative. Jordan remains firmly committed to the Palestinian cause and supports two-state solutions based on United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. To promote peace and stability, Jordan calls for stronger United Nations oversight on decolonization, greater transparency, and increased humanitarian development aid to non-self-governing territories. Jordan advocates for peaceful, internationally supervised processes that uphold self-determination while respecting state sovereignty. The United Nations must continue to lead through diplomacy, dialogue, and the rule of international law.
Country:Jordan
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan recognizes that empowering women and girls is vital to achieving sustainable development, social stability, and poverty elimination. However, rural areas continue to face major gender equality challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, employment, political participation, and technology— further compounded by climate change and economic hardship. In response, we adopted the 2020- 2025 National Strategy for Women, aiming to boost women’s workforce participation, improve access to education and legal rights awareness, and address gender-based violence. Yet, rural women remain underrepresented in both the labor market and political decision-making. Jordan advocates for targeted solutions, including gender-sensitive agricultural policies and digital training, to empower rural women and girls, strengthen food security, and promote economic and civic participation. These efforts require strong partnerships with UN agencies and international stakeholders. We reaffirm its commitment to gender equality as essential for national stability, prosperity, and inclusive development.
Country:Kenya
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The International Community is a diverse body of members, each with different goals, each with the right to sovereignty. While the International Community has witnessed the growing and waning of national identity as states grow stronger and seek to achieve their goals in the international arena, states have often found ways to come together in support of the protection of the rights of peoples. As a state that underwent a peaceful process of gaining independence, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of defending the rights of people, as is evident in the right to self-determination and independence. Not only is this in line with the principles and founding charter of the African Union, but this also helps foster conditions conducive to economic growth and development. As a country with deep appreciation for history and a responsibility to support Pan-African ideals as one of the founding members of the African Union, we stand with a plan for autonomy that is rooted in and conducive to peaceful coexistence. In our statement from discussions of the Fourth Committee on Special Political and Decolonization Matters of the General Assembly, we reaffirmed the Western Sahara issue as more than a mere territorial matter; it is a question of justice, self- determination, and human dignity. Our representative had noted that Security Council Resolution 2756 (2024) reflects the continued support for a lasting and mutually acceptable solution that guarantees the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination in accordance with the principles of the Charter. As such, we maintain a firm stance on the importance of the recognition and protection of the universal realization of the right of people to self- determination. We support and seek to advance policies that protect rights such as economic empowerment, digital equity, and solidarity as enumerated by Ambassador Martin Kimani, the chair of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. We support freedom, peace, and reconciliation that are not achieved by force, but through dialogue and respect for human dignity
Country:Kenya
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
In Kenya’s rural areas, women and girls are impacted by many treatments and societal norms that decrease their ability to receive an education, be financially independent, and carve out a respected place in society. This situation is multifaceted and often cyclical. According to the resolution from the eightieth session of the UN General Assembly, through the Stand for Her Land Campaign, countries, including Kenya, have improved land ownership rights for women and worked for legal reforms to alleviate discriminatory norms. Also, as stated by their page on rural women, “UN Women supports the leadership and participation of rural women in shaping laws, strategies, policies and programmes on all issues that affect their lives” (CSW). Kenya is committed to that mission. In the 2010 Kenyan constitution, women are guaranteed the same land and property rights. This is a significant way to combat rural poverty for women and allows them to be financially independent. Another way that the Kenyan government is working towards a country without gender inequality is through the 2019 National Policy on Gender and Development (NPGD). This is a policy framework that outlines the integration of gender concerns into a broad range of sectors. For women and girls in rural areas, many of the issues addressed in the NPGD are significant to improving their situation. One barrier that has been seen to have a large impact on girls' ability to receive an education is access to menstrual products. The NGPD calls for a solution: “Provide personal and menstrual hygiene information, standard facilities, and allocate a budget for the provision of sanitary towels” (NPGD). Improving access to education is a monumental way to help girls in rural areas become and be seen as independent and equal members of society.
Country:Liberia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Self-determination, according to the UN, is defined as the right of people to be free from mandatory rules, choose their own government, and govern themselves. In solving problems, the UN created the 1945 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It demonstrated that all people have the right to self-determination and equal rights. The Republic of Liberia believes in self-determination due to Liberia’s historical connection to this principle, with the relocation of African Americans to gain independence and become a self-governing body. Liberia has had a lasting impact on human rights and self-determination. Globally, Liberia has developed a capacity to monitor human rights and ensured the rights are implemented. Still, human rights conflicts are linked to self-determination through colonial authority, domestic government authority, and state sovereignty. The United Nations Development programme showed 83% of Liberians lived below the poverty line, which shows lack of human rights and issues in self-determination. At the regional level, African Union makes aspirations covering what Africa aims to improve well-being. Locally, when it comes to territories, a significant issue arises from the clarity of land laws. The Land Rights of 2018 by Liberia and the Liberia Land Rights Act work together and are currently implemented in specific communities to be a solution to clarify land laws. The Land Rights of 2018 addresses land ownership as land issues have not been clarified. At the community level, what Liberia has done is create Community Self-Identification, where people determine boundaries and declare their own land. For example, because of Community self-identification, in 2024, 130 rural communities were identified as land to their owners. In using community self- identification, people can know their land is protected and declared. Liberia should work with the national civil society of Liberia to implement workshops to spread awareness of human rights.
Country:Liberia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Women only account for 34 percent of internet users in Africa, according to the African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy. The Republic of Liberia recognizes the importance of promoting women’s empowerment through the adoption of, improvement of, and education on digital systems. Recognizing the importance of meeting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), Liberia believes that the elimination of digital illiteracy for women’s equality in markets is paramount to meeting SDG 5 target B. The Republic of Liberia understands the impacts that women in rural areas make in the agriculture sector, which are supported by digital infrastructure and knowledge of digital systems, according to the 2018 Commission on the Status of Women. Pointing out the importance of, and committing to, Sections 13 and 25 of the African Union Agenda 2063, Liberia is making tangible steps to root out gender inequality in agriculture by promoting the expansion of a digital economy that encourages purchasing from women, like through the Buy from Women Initiative. Efforts like working directly with communities through the “training of trainers” like in the Economic Community of West African States’ initiative “Training of Trainers on Digital Skills for Women in Rural Communities” beyond Monrovia, the center of digitalization efforts, can provide a stable foundation for literacy development. Member States can expand on existing, successful programs like UN Women’s 2022-2024 partnership with Orange Liberia: Digital Inclusion for Women's Economic Empowerment. It is the belief of Liberia that more initiatives like the partnership with UN Women should be supported and expanded on by Member States. Liberia looks forward to and encourages Member States’ cooperation toward better, impactful conditions for women in rural areas through support of digital infrastructure and literacy programs.
Country:Libya
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The State of Libya strongly affirms that the right of peoples to self-determination is a universal and inalienable right that must be respected by all nations. This principle, established in the Charter of the United Nations, ensures that every people have the freedom to choose their own political, economic, social, and cultural path. Libya believes that no nation can truly achieve peace or stability unless its people are free from foreign control and can decide their own future. The Libyan people, who have struggled for independence and continue working toward stability, deeply understand the importance of protecting this right. Although the international community recognizes this principle, many peoples around the world still face challenges in exercising it. Foreign occupations, interference in internal affairs, and external pressure continue to deny self-determination to many nations. Libya believes that such actions violate international law and weaken trust among Member States. The realization of this right is also connected to the promotion of equality, justice, and peaceful coexistence among nations. It is therefore essential for the United Nations to strengthen its role in supporting peoples who are still denied their right to self-determination. Libya supports all UN resolutions that promote this right, especially those protecting peoples living under occupation. Libya also stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people and their right to establish an independent state. Moving forward, Libya encourages dialogue, national reconciliation, and democratic processes as the most effective ways to realize this right. The State of Libya calls upon all Member States to respect sovereignty, reject foreign interference, and work together to guarantee this right for all peoples.
Country:Libya
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The State of Libya recognizes that improving the situation of women and girls in rural areas is essential for social and economic progress. Rural women play an important role in agriculture, family care, and community life, yet they often face limited access to education, healthcare, clean water, and job opportunities. Libya believes that when rural women and girls are supported with better resources and equal rights, they can help build stronger and more sustainable communities. In Libya, many women in rural areas continue to work hard to support their families despite facing challenges such as poverty and limited public services. The government has made efforts to expand education and improve access to basic needs, but more progress is still required. Libya supports the goals of the United Nations to promote gender equality and empower women, especially those in rural areas who are often left behind in global development. Libya believes that international cooperation is needed to help rural communities thrive. Programs that provide training, micro-finance, and agricultural support for women can create long-term solutions. Libya also encourages greater investment in infrastructure, such as clean energy and roads, to make rural life safer and more productive. Moving forward, Libya supports stronger partnerships with UN agencies and neighboring countries to share knowledge and experiences. By working together, nations can help ensure that rural women and girls everywhere have equal access to education, health care, and employment. Libya reaffirms its commitment to protecting women’s rights and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals that promise equality for all.
Country:Lithuania
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The right to self-determination has become increasingly difficult to guarantee in various places across the globe. The war in Ukraine has raised issues about how states can help guarantee their territorial integrity without violating on the right of individuals to self-government. The same issues are being faced in Gaza and other non-self-governing territories. These cases show that even though the United Nations Charter has recognized this right since 1945, many regions still struggle to turn it into reality. International law often tries to balance between national boundaries and the desire of people for independence, but such a balance is difficult to achieve in modern conflicts. As a state, Lithuania strongly supports the right to self-determination. After all, the people of Lithuania also had to fight for their independence when Lithuania was under Soviet occupation. Lithuania has therefore become a committed supporter of the independence and strongly condemns any illegal occupation and annexation of sovereign States' territories. Lithuania is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the UN and it fully supports democracy and good governance as a way of life to secure peace and development. Lithuania also directly funds the Development Cooperation and Democracy Promotion Program, which supports democratic reforms, electoral observation, and fair elections in places like Moldova and Ukraine. Lithuania supports the idea that self-determination is best achieved through peaceful and cooperative means. It has therefore called on the UN to support early warning and response systems to prevent violence and help new governments to build their democratic institutions. Lithuania also recommends that the UN should establish a forum for discussing all independence issues in an atmosphere of peace and mutual respect between countries and communities. Lithuania is also asking all States to monitor and report on the citizen's participation in the exercise of governance and the protection of cultural identity.
Country:Lithuania
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Rural women and girls continue to face serious barriers to equality and development. They often have less access to education, healthcare, and technology, and their work in farming and family care is undervalued. Although the international community has made progress through agreements like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995), many gaps remain. UN Women's 2022 report on rural women showed that economic challenges, climate change, and limited digital access continue to hold women back. In Asia, for example, many rural women cannot own land or receive equal pay for their work. As a member of the European Union, Lithuania promotes education and equal opportunities for all women, including those in rural areas. Through its Development Cooperation and Democracy Promotion Program, Lithuania helps partner countries build fairer systems for women's education, healthcare, and employment. Lithuania
believes that stronger data collection is needed to better understand the gender gap. The Global Gender Gap Report (2024) shows that many countries lack accurate data on rural women, which makes it harder to create policies that truly meet their needs. Lithuania believes that empowering rural women requires access to education, technology, and fair employment. Artificial intelligence and digital tools can help by giving women online access to training, banking, and healthcare. Lithuania supports UN efforts to close the digital divide and create affordable internet and digital literacy programs in rural areas. It also encourages countries to strengthen women's land rights, promote leadership roles, and ensure that rural women are part of local decision- making.
Country:Luxembourg
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg recognizes the right of peoples to self-determine. As recently as September 22nd, 2025, Luxembourg has formally recognized Palestine as an independent state, with one of the major goals of supporting the self-determination of the Palestinian citizens who live within Gaza and the West Bank. This commitment can be backed up by the fact that Luxembourg voted “Yes” on the United Nation’s 2023 Resolution on the “The right of the Palestinian people to self-determination”.
Thanks to this continued commitment within Palestine, the Luxembourgish government will not vote against further resolutions on self-determination and human rights to peoples throughout the world. Luxembourg has historically voted abstain within the United Nation’s 2003 Resolution on the “Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination”, and the aforementioned continued recognition of Palestine.
Country:Luxembourg
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg believes in a continued goal of enshrining and protecting the rights of women and girls. Within Luxembourg’s 2022-2024 Human Rights Council bid, an affirmation and commitment within the rights of women and girls in terms of economic, educational, sexual and reproductive rights, were proudly made, alongside also a continued investment of 1% of Luxembourg’s gross national income into development assistance.
Additionally, as recent as 2023, Luxembourg has invested 4.8 million Euros into the EIB Financial Inclusion Fund, which funds aid to women to empower the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’s Sustainable Development Goals (aka SDGs), specifically SDG-5 (Gender Equality) and rural areas via SDG-1 and SDG-8 (No Poverty, Decent Work and Economic Growth, respectively) within globally poor countries. Without Luxembourg’s noble investments and contributions within the Financial Inclusion Fund, this international situation would be far more dire.
Luxembourg will support the lifting and strengthening of women and girls rights within rural areas, either through UN Women, Leaving No One Behind, the Financial Inclusion Fund, or any other strategic means. As stated within Luxembourg’s former Foreign and European Affairs Ministry’s visit to Chile, Luxembourg will push forward for an international collaboration within the implementation of women’s rights, and the approaches and policies that come with it. As such, Luxembourg will continue its presence and participation within UN Women, and advocate other nations to enact SDGs domestically. If necessary, the Luxembourgish government can aid via an increase in its investment and financial contributions within development and empowerment assistance to aid rural women and girls’ rights.
Country:Malta
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
We, as the Republic of Malta, reassert the notion that all people shall reserve the right to be governed as they see fit. Conflicts over the right of self-determination is a pressing issue in today’s global climate. Many times, these conflicts result in the creation of a new state that is governed by the people who wished to self-determine. Furthermore, Malta believes all people shall have the right to set their own governmental standards, whether it be freedom from a colonial power or freedom from a tyrannical government. In 1964, Malta itself saw the freedom that can exist for a nation when it is released from the hold of a colonial power that oversaw it for years. Referencing the UN Charter, Article 73 discusses the basic principle that “Members of the United Nations which have or assume responsibilities for the administration of territories whose peoples have not yet attained a full measure of self- government recognize the principle that the interests of the inhabitants of these territories are paramount, and accept as a sacred trust the obligation to promote to the utmost, within the system of international peace and security established by the present Charter, the well- being of the inhabitants of these territories…” Malta stands by these statements as marked in the UN Charter.
Country:Malta
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Malta reaffirms its commitment, under our national constitution and through the Gender Equality and Mainstream Strategy & Action Plan (Gemsap), to ensure that all women and girls share the same rights, opportunities, and protections regardless of location. Malta recognizes that gender equality and women's empowerment are fundamental human rights essential to rural progress. Even within small and highly developed states, rural and surrounding communities face distinct challenges that require targeted and inclusive policy. With this in mind, Malta emphasizes improving the situation of women and girls in rural areas through universal strategies and circumstantial measures. These universal strategies guarantee equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity. Circumstantial measures address communities' unique social, cultural, and financial barriers. Malta remains committed to advancing solutions that promote equality, opportunity, and ensure that no woman or girl is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.
Country:Monaco
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
More than ever, the world needs to recommit itself to the policy of Self-Determination and international law. Self-determination is one of the most important principles of the UN charter, and as such, Member States must hold themselves to this standard and international law.
Monaco stands with commitment to international law and the ideals of Self-Determination in the world. As the smallest Member State of the United Nations, Monaco understands the necessity of people to be able to decide their own fate and how they are to be governed and stands with those who seek autonomy and further Self-Determination. Monaco also supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict and the right of the Palestinian people to self-governance, as affirmed in Resolution 79/163 “The Right of the Palestinian People to self-determination" of which Monaco voted in favor of the resolution, affirming its commitment to a two-state solution that will bring peace for both Israel and the Palestinian people. The invasion of Ukraine has raised the issue of self-determination against external force, so Monaco believes that a lasting peace must be established between Russia and Ukraine that gives the Ukrainian people their right to self-determination and shows respect for the sovereignty of Ukraine.
Monaco is ready to work with the international community to help establish peace and freedom across the world for all peoples who are unable to gain self-governance or are under foreign subjugation. So may this not be the last call upon all the Member-States and the international community to reaffirm their commitment to self-determination and the UN charter that establishes it as an important part of international law.
Country:Monaco
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Internationally, women and girls of rural areas are particularly vulnerable to climate change, disease, violence, abuse, natural disasters, poverty, forced or early marriage, unemployment, and more. Rural women and girls make up one-fourth of the world's population. They contribute to a large portion of the global agricultural system, yet they receive high levels of discrimination on inheritance, equal pay, and access to property. They are more likely to struggle in these areas than males or women and girls in urban areas. This can lead to them not being able to practice their rights to a full extent. Examples of barriers that are preventing women and girls in rural areas from being equals in their community are location, finances, and social resistance.
Monaco supports the continued efforts for equal rights and to empower women and girls within rural areas. While Monaco does not have rural areas, this does not prevent its contribution of aid and advocacy for women’s rights. In 2025, Prince Albert II supported a program that assisted women to lead agriculture in Guinea-Bissau. Monaco is in partnership with four other countries to form J-MED, a program that assists vulnerable groups, especially women and girls in rural areas. Monaco has shown its support for improving the educational and economic status of rural women by partnering with UNESCO to provide training, financial aid, and food to women and girls in vulnerable situations.
The state of Monaco is assisting women entrepreneurs in Tunisia by funding the project PWE (Promoting Women’s Empowerment), a project of UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization). Through this initiative, women are overcoming barriers, creating jobs, and challenging gender inequality. The State of Monaco encourages other nations to participate in or create programs like this example. Rural women's leadership and participation should be encouraged at all levels of community and government.
Country:Morocco
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
As a country that obtained independence from a colonial power, the Kingdom of Morocco recognizes the importance of decolonization in a globalized world, and further highlights self-determination as a vital part of decolonization. Morocco is alarmed at the fact that, under Chapter XI of the Charter of the United Nations (UN), 17 countries remain on the agenda of the UN’s Special Committee on Decolonization. These countries have systematically been subjected to economic strife and lack of peace, but the recent pandemic has left unprecedented damage(in the last 30 years) on health care, education, and income. The UN is dedicated to creating measures to aid the fragile economies of these non-self governing countries. The adoption of the agenda (document PRS/2023/CRP.1) further highlights the UN’s dedication to seeking self-determination for countries and eradicating colonialism. As an independent nation committed to Africa’s freedom, Morocco firmly believes that self-determination is essential to global development and stability. Morocco's position remains committed to ensuring peaceful relations even during disputes to obtain self determination, and condemn using the pursuit of self determination to abuse rights and promote separatist agendas. Morocco firmly upholds the right of nations to self-govern within reasonable bounds, opposing any form of dictatorship or suppression of individual rights. Morocco remains committed to advancing its economy through investments in infrastructure and renewable energy, thereby strengthening tourism and overall national growth. As acknowledged by members of a Special Committee in the United Nations, Morocco has been embroiled in a dispute with the Frente Popular de Liberación de Saguía el Hamra y Río de Oro (Frente POLISARIO) that has lasted longer than 50 years in an effort to ensure self determination. Despite Morocco’s ownership of this land, which was reclaimed from the Portuguese in the 17th Century, Morocco recognizes the importance of affording the Moroccan Sahara with self-determination. The Moroccan Autonomy Plan, which has been supported by over 118 countries, would provide those in the Moroccan Sahara with social and economic opportunities. In conclusion, Morocco aims to reinforce the use of peaceful negotiations in the pursuit of self determination, and condemns the use of violence to obtain such means. The Kingdom of Morocco calls on Member States to create and follow through on frameworks such as the Moroccan Autonomy Plan, and encourages meaningful dialogue that facilitates political solutions through compromise.
Country:Morocco
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
According to the World Bank Group, despite making 49% of the global labor force, more than 2.4 billion women are not given equal economic freedoms. Moreover, women and girls are continually overexploited and subjected to inhumane conditions on a daily basis, especially in camps where their freedom of speech and expression, as well as bodily autonomy is forcibly taken away. As exemplified by the formation of the UN Women—the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, the United Nations recognizes that women and girls are an essential part to effective functioning in any society. When their safety and security are compromised, it causes radical consequences on a country’s population, reductions in public safety, detriments to family welfare, and overall rises in death rates. Recognizing this, Morocco has undertaken daily efforts to implement additional laws to equalize the treatment and opportunities offered to women, especially in rural areas. The implementation of The Moudawana code, alongside other legal and educational reforms as referenced by The Fund For Global Human Rights, demonstrates the significant strides made by Morocco to ensure the rights of women and girls. Morocco advocates for the establishment and rigorous enforcement of stronger laws, with particular focus on rural regions, in pursuit of greater gender equality. However, it recognizes that additional measures are essential to fully safeguard the individual rights of all citizens. Morocco advocates for the adoption and execution of more severe laws to protect women and children, as well as expanding education efforts, especially in rural areas. These measures would serve as a guiding step into protecting the rights of these groups, providing long-term improvements, justice and equity.
Country:Netherlands
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Netherlands strongly supports the right to self-determination as a fundamental principle of international law and human rights, embodied in the UN Charter. The Netherlands believes that all people must have the ability to determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development freely. This stance is informed not only by the Netherlands’ global commitments, but also by its own constitutional structure. Within the self-governing countries, a model exists that demonstrates the Netherlands’ commitment to political autonomy. Internationally, the Netherlands supports peaceful, lawful self-determination efforts, including the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, and upholds Ukraine’s sovereignty against violations of its territorial integrity. At the same time, it emphasizes the importance of territorial integrity, peaceful conflict resolution, and the prevention of separatism motivated by external manipulation or nationalist extremism. Recognizing the complex challenges around self-determination, the Netherlands encourages inclusive governance, minority rights protection, and international mediation in disputed regions. It calls on the UN and member states to support innovative governance structures. The Netherlands also advocates for stronger international accountability to ensure that claims of self-determination are not used to justify conflict or suppression. Ultimately, the Netherlands believes that preserving self-determination must go hand in hand with upholding human dignity, promoting stability, and ensuring that all people have a meaningful voice in their own future.
Country:Netherlands
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Kingdom of the Netherlands is deeply committed to empowering women and girls in rural areas as a vital part of sustainable development and social equity. Gender equality is central to Dutch policy, aligned with international frameworks like CEDAW and the Beijing Declaration. Domestically, the government addresses challenges faced by rural women, such as limited mobility, economic participation, and access to services, by investing in digital infrastructure, supporting female entrepreneurship, and ensuring healthcare, childcare, and education. Special focus is given to intersectional inequalities affecting migrant, elderly, and disabled women.
On the international stage, the Netherlands prioritizes gender equality in development cooperation, partnering with UN Women, civil society, and grassroots groups to expand rural women’s access to land ownership, financial resources, reproductive health services, and protection from gender-based violence. The country advocates for integrating gender- responsive policies into rural development, especially in areas like climate adaptation, food security, and digital transformation. Collecting gender-disaggregated data is also emphasized to improve evidence-based policymaking.
The Netherlands remains eager to collaborate with Member States to create sustainable, inclusive strategies that promote the rights and empowerment of rural women and girls worldwide. By focusing on intersectionality and inclusion, the Dutch delegation aims to support global efforts in advancing gender equality and ensuring rural women’s full participation in social and economic life.
Country:New Zealand
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The principle of self-determination, preserved in Article 1(2) and 55 of the United Nations (UN) Charter, represents the foundation for peaceful coexistence. New Zealand upholds UN General Assembly (GA) Resolution 2625, the Declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and Cooperation among States, conveying that all people have the inalienable right to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. New Zealand also supports UNGA Resolution 1514, the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, establishing the international framework for decolonization, affirming that all people have the right to freely determine their political status. New Zealand advocates for human rights development, supports the universal realization of self-determination, and recognizes respect for this fundamental right to achieve lasting peace.
New Zealand commits to self-determination through our actions in the Pacific region, with measures being taken through the ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, which communicate self-determination in their first articles. New Zealand reinforces Sustainable Development Goal 16, which promotes peaceful and inclusive societies and provides justice for all. We recognize that foreign military occupation remains a significant obstacle threatening self-determination, preventing people from exercising their fundamental rights, which often results in humanitarian crises and regional instability.
New Zealand urges the international community to address foreign military occupation through diplomatic dialogue driven by international law, leading to discussions on territorial integrity. We advocate for the strengthening of emerging states to increase sustainable economic development, with safeguards for developing island states that face threats from human rights violations and climate change. Through dedication to UN Charter principles, New Zealand remains confident that Member States can work together to guarantee all people can exercise self-determination without domination.
Country:New Zealand
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
New Zealand remains committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of women and girls in rural areas. Rural women and girls face challenges, including limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, as well as persistent sexual and gender- based violence. New Zealand recognizes UNGA Resolution 72/148, highlighting the resource limitations affecting rural women and girls, and supports the comprehensive frameworks outlined in UNGA Resolutions 50/165 and 78/220 to address these disparities. These resolutions emphasize critical areas, including access to sexual and reproductive health services, education, and protection from violence, which are essential for empowering rural communities.
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) serves as the foundational framework for New Zealand’s approach to gender equality in rural areas. CEDAW defines gender-based discrimination across all sectors and establishes binding commitments to advance women’s rights and fundamental freedoms. New Zealand regularly reports on fulfilling CEDAW obligations, emphasizing Article 14, to address the rights of rural women to participate in development planning, access to health and education, and benefit from economic opportunities. Our commitment to CEDAW reflects the recognition that empowering rural women is essential to achieving sustainable development.
To improve the situation of women and girls in rural areas, New Zealand advocates for strengthened international cooperation and implementation of CEDAW provisions across Member States. New Zealand supports expanded healthcare accessibility, targeted educational programs, economic development initiatives, and gender-responsive policies enabling rural women and girls to participate fully in social, economic, and political life. Ensuring rural women and girls have access to sexual and reproductive health resources, educational opportunities, and pathways to economic independence, the international community can unlock potentially overlooked communities. New Zealand is committed to collaborating with Member States to ensure empowerment of rural women and girls remains fundamental to achieving peace and sustainable development.
Country:Nigeria
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Self-determination is a concept that is rich and deep with many forms—such as internal or external. Nigeria has seen issues arising from this disconnect plaguing our homeland, where murky definitions have allowed for cries of secession and infighting to prosper, leaving us uncertain and in disarray. This problem is amplified for smaller countries, where this disconnect rages even more heavily. Nigeria stands firmly in support of internal self- determination: the rights of individuals to set and pursue their own political, economic, social, and cultural goals. However, externally, we believe that these acts of expression should work in accordance to certain guidelines laid down by the United Nations so as to avoid conflict and violence.
Articles 1(2) and 55 of the UN Charter for human rights lay down the groundwork for the requirement of friendly relations between nations and the conditions required to do so. Considering how important these articles are to maintaining international peace, they still have major inadequacies. Furthermore, during the appalling anti-apartheid struggle, Nigeria advocated that liberation movements for self-determination cannot count as terrorist movements, something that is now part of an international standard. Moreover, we are also a member of numerous regional and international agreements concerning internal self- determination, and our constitution guarantees that all are entitled to freedom of expression, the ability to have and share opinions, and operate media.
Nigeria is in complete support of internal self-determination, and proposes amendments to Articles 1(2) and 55 in the UN Charter, urging them to provide definitions that do not so blatantly contradict. Accordingly, we encourage this body to collaborate with the Secretary General to review the needed changes and to develop specialized recommendations addressing such concerns. Countries will continue to fester in societal unrest without these changes, making it a requirement for future longevity.
Country:Nigeria
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Women and girls in rural areas face complex, systemic inequalities: high poverty rates, lack of economic/leadership opportunities, violence, healthcare, and access to effective, continuous education. In Nigeria, over 10.5 million children are not currently in school, 60% of whom are from northern regions—the most rural areas of the country. Rural women face higher rates of intimate partner violence (IPV). Poverty, reproductive health issues, and lack of economic and leadership opportunities further set back the possibilities for improved lives for rural females. However, education is key to promoting advocacy against IPV, allowing them to develop competitive skills for the workplace, in turn reducing their chances of teen pregnancy/marriages and increasing civic engagement.
Noting the importance of education for young people, global action has been taken to increase access to education. The 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) Article 26 declares the right of all peoples to an education. 1979 saw the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) in which Article 10 requires all States to eliminate discrimination against women and girls in education. In 1989, Nigeria ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which requires State parties to make primary education compulsory for all children, including girls. Nigeria has increased educational access for girls; in our Constitution, primary education is universally free and mandatory.
Nigeria supports efforts to increase education in rural areas by improving educational infrastructure: mobile classrooms, radio schools, and evening classes. Further, Nigeria encourages States to follow UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development framework and adopt programs like the FAO’s Farmer Field School initiative that merge field school models with literacy, numeracy, history, and human rights education. Nigeria also values fostering community-led initiatives, in collaboration with UNICEF’S child rights education programs, to promote awareness of the long-term value of schooling and protect children from abuse. Further, Nigeria believes introducing improved technologies through UNDP- supported capacity building projects can reduce child labor and increase household incomes. At the same time, enforcing laws against IPV and child marriage, supported by UNICEF’s child protection initiatives, can safeguard girls’ rights and future opportunities.
Country:Pakistan
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
We firmly believe in the importance of people's rights to self-determination, while respecting state sovereignty. We stress self-determination above state sovereignty in cases of human rights violations and those under colonial rule. We continually support the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples, the Universal Realization of the Right of the People to Self-determination, and the International Covenant on Economic Social and Cultural Rights. We call on this committee to work in coordination with the Human Rights Council to strengthen and increase the frequency of monitoring human rights violations. We would like to affirm our full support for the Kashmiri and Palestinian people in their struggle for the inalienable right to self-governance. We believe that continued human rights violations by states that govern over people seeking self-determination, like India, are one of the main factors hindering the international community from protecting and promoting the rights of people seeking self-determination. As described by our Prime Minister on January 5, 2025, “It is time for the international community, including the United Nations, to live up to their promises and take meaningful measures, enabling the people of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination. The international community must also call for the immediate cessation of human rights violations, the release of political prisoners, and the restoration of fundamental rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people.” We ask that the responsible states end any human rights violations and foreign domination. As noted by our ambassador, “The imperative of decolonization is not merely a matter of history; it remains an urgent demand of justice for peoples still living under alien domination and foreign occupation.” We call for all member states to uphold their promises, take meaningful measures, end the occupation of Kashmir and all non-self-governing territories, and support their right to self-governance as stated in the UN Charter and International Law.
Country:Pakistan
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
We firmly believe that the stagnation and loss of progress in achieving gender equality in rural areas must be reversed. Currently, according to the UNEP-WCMC, over a third of employed women are working on agriculture, forestry and fisheries but less than 15% of landholders are women. As a result, rural women are often less able to access land, credit, agricultural inputs, markets and high value agrifood chains, and obtain lower prices for their crops. With the overwhelming support of member states regarding A/RES/78/279, recognizing the year 2026 as the Year of the Woman Farmer, it is crucial now more than ever that women and girls be read their rights as the land owners and maintainers of the world. In order to reach this goal, there are two pillars laid out that we believe will enhance the understanding of the rights of rural women and girls as stated in A/RES/78/279: recognizing the need to empower all women and girls through inclusive and equitable quality education and training to promote on-farm activities, and stressing the importance of promoting women’s empowerment economically as land owners. A report issued by Women’s Land Rights (WLR) noted that economic security benefits of WLR are strongly supported by evidence and can help to shift women into a position of stronger economic equality, as well as a stronger social standing within various nations by gaining agency, mobility, and social standing within their respective communities. It is imperative that all member states adopt a model of inclusive and socially responsible governance. We strongly encourage all member states to remember their promise to the 5th Sustainable Development Goal, especially target 5.A, sections 1 and 2: female land rights ownership and the equal rights to land ownership. As stated by UN Women Executive Director, Ms. Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, said, “It’s time to make women’s contributions to a healthy environment visible.”
Country:Panama
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of Panama believes in the right of people to have freedom from external rule, to choose their own form of government, and the liberties necessary to be an autonomous political entity. Globally, this issue remains urgent due to ongoing conflicts, foreign occupations, and systemic discrimination against indigenous and marginalized communities. According to the UN, 17 territories stay non-self-governing, and 2 million people live under conditions that deny them the right to self-determination. Implementation remains inconsistent. Unresolved self-determination claims often lead to instability, displacement, and human rights violations, and these consequences undermine peace-building efforts and erode trust in international institutions. To address this issue, Article 1 of the UN Charter affirms the right of peoples to self-determination. Additionally, General Assembly Resolutions 1514 on decolonization, 2625, and 76/163 support this principle. OHCHR, Special Rapporteurs on Indigenous Peoples and Mercenaries, and the Human Rights Council have conducted extensive and effective work on this issue. However, this year, the Ngäbe-Buglé and Emberá communities have faced violent crackdowns during peaceful protests against legislative reforms and mining projects, and despite legal recognition of indigenous comarcas, many communities still lack formal land titles. Panama’s commitment to self-determination is shaped by its own struggle for sovereignty and control over the Panama Canal. Panama has ratified key human rights treaties like the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights, participated in regional forums like the OAS, and supported dialogue on autonomy and indigenous rights. Domestically, Panama has recognized and empowered indigenous communities, such as legal protections for ancestral lands and cultural independence. Panama believes the UN should strengthen its monitoring and reporting mechanisms by expanding the mandate of Special Rapporteurs and increasing support for OHCHR field offices. Second, Member States should promote inclusive democratic processes under UN supervision; such as establishing inclusive local governance structures that reflect the cultural and political autonomy of self-determining peoples and providing technical and financial support for capacity-building programs that empower communities to participate in democratic governance. These processes must be transparent, culturally sensitive, and aligned with international law.
Country:Panama
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Panama recognizes the urgent and undeniable need to promote and protect the rights of women and girls in rural areas. The UNDP estimates that around 60-80% of global food is produced by 43% of rural women. These women and girls face the reality of persistent barriers to education, healthcare, land ownership, financial access, and political participation daily. Poverty rates in indigenous and rural comarcas reach a staggering 70%. Panama is committed to eliminating discrimination and closing this gender gap by signing the CEDAW and the Beijing Declaration. In 2023, Panama led the adoption of the Declaration for the Rights of All Women, Adolescents, and Girls in Rural Areas of the Americas as President of the CIM of the OAS. Panama also supports the UN Declaration on the Rights of Peasants, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive rural development. The Republic of Panama has taken steps to promote gender equality through a national policy framework addressing five critical areas of inequality.Panama continues to build upon previous national frameworks and aligns with international commitments, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Montevideo Consensus. A cornerstone of Panama’s gender strategy is the AEMR, developed through consultations with over 300 rural women leaders. However, without continued action these inequalities will persist, undermining progress toward SDGs 5, 10, and 13. Panama calls on all Members to carry out their political commitments to the SDG goals as outlined and agreed upon during the 2030 UN Agenda conference in 2015, and recognize the need for cooperation between States to continue working towards a sustainable world. Panama would furthermore like to call for a UN led coalition to track progress on rural gender equity across member states to ensure accountability for SDGs 5, 10, and 13 through transparent reporting and peer review.
Country:Philippines
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The United Nations (UN) has explicitly affirmed its calls for self-determination with Article 1(2) of the Charter based on the priority of “developing inter-governmental relationships founded on respect for the principle of equal rights and the self-determination of peoples.” As an original charter signatory, the Philippines maintained the importance of self-determination. Acting in conjunction with the UN’s 1966 International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Philippines affirms that domestic remedies take priority over complementary international action. The Philippines comprises 2,000 inhabited islands and 182 ethnolinguistic groups, among which the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) describes 17 million citizens as indigenous peoples (IPs). With such diversity, the Philippines has prioritized protecting equitable domestic representation. Monumentally, the 1986 Constitution codified the protection of culture and land amongst indigenous cultural communities (ICCs) and IPs. The Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act of 1997 ensured indigenous rights to self-governance, ancestral domains, and the recognition of tribal barangays – or administrative sectors. These policies continue to produce globally relevant outcomes, such as the UN-celebrated (and supported via the Peace Building Fund) establishment in 2019 of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. This marked a major step toward peacefully resolving decades of conflict with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Consistent with domestic policies, the Philippines has a long-standing record of supporting decolonization and self-determination efforts globally. Co-sponsoring the sweeping resolution 1514 (XV), the Philippines joined in calling for haste in decolonization efforts and the immediate end of foreign “trust” dependency governance. Affirmatively voting on GA Resolution 42/95, the Philippines demonstrated concerns of self-determination regarding “Bantustans” and targeting racial discrimination. Although celebratory of the UN's past successes, the Philippines has continued to align with global and regional calls for action. Concurrent with its previous stance presented at the Peacebuilding Commission on the 2025 Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture, the Philippines maintains that, “peacebuilding should always be nationally-owned and nationally-led because 'the localization of peace' is an important investment…” However, international support remains critical (especially for recently post-colonial or indigenous states) in addressing questions of self-determination, the PBF’s primary goal. Unfortunately, its original allocation in 2005 under GA A/60/180 has fallen to half its initial target. Therefore, the Philippines recommends that the Third Committee of the General Assembly devote significant attention to the PBF and its financial situation, given its own success with PBF support. Additionally, the Philippines requests consideration of A/AC.109/2025/L.3 ongoing review in the Special Committee on Decolonization regarding non-self-governing territories to be examined and implemented into policy. Finally, the Philippines emphasizes multilateral collaboration as foundational to the goals of the founding Charter and the Philippines’ goals for self-determination.
Country:Philippines
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The adoption of Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) via A/Res/70/1 was a triumphant decision, emphasizing gender equality and the empowerment of all women. Unfortunately, a decade later, a 2025 UN study synthesizing reports from 54 organizations found that no SDG 5 indicator goals have been met, with 80 nations missing critical data, especially on rural women. UN Women concludes that women account for two-thirds of the global illiterate and just 20% of land holdings. Despite globally stalled progress, a 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) study found the Philippines is 20th globally in gender equality, leading the Asian continent. This has transitioned to regional leadership, chairing the main committee that negotiated the UN Women (UNW) 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPFA). Key to its success is the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), a nexus of progress in education, leadership access, agricultural rights, and financial opportunity. Partnering with the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), the PCW initiated UDF-PHI-07-184-4005, conducting widespread bi-monthly oversight meetings focused on information exchange between the Government and rural women's groups. Furthermore, it offers financial support to Pambansang Koalisyon ng Kababaihan sa Kanayunan (PKKK), a pre-existing coalition of organizations representing rural working women, particularly indigenous, pushing policy recommendations. Such efforts culminated in the 13th-highest labor parity scores. Globally achieving SDG 5, especially for rural women, requires urgency, accountability, and collaboration on information. In this spirit, the Philippines urges all nations to ratify the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), obligating States Parties to take appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination and violence against women, particularly in rural areas, as outlined in Article 10(A). Finally, the Philippines will work under GA 3 to create mechanisms for founding cooperatives, with the PKKK as a model for success under CEDAW parameters, paired with new formalized guidelines for national progress and localized aid from these cooperatives.
Country:Poland
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of Poland, as a state that has faced many instances of authoritarian control, understands and acknowledges a country’s right to self-determination and maintain its territorial integrity in accordance with international law. Human beings are born with certain unalienable rights, including the property right; a group of people sharing cultures, ethnicities, religions, and other similarities have the right to do so, as long as it is just, can declare sovereignty, and have autonomous control of its borders and resources. The Republic of Poland has faced instances of its right to self-determination being taken away, such as the Axis Powers’ invasion of our country in the Second World War, and the Soviet Union’s takeover until its dissolution in 1991. The Republic of Poland recognizes the importance of having clearly defined borders, a living culture, and an autonomous government free of external interference; the Republic of Poland supports a state’s freedom to self-determinate, and its right to justly defend itself.
Country:Poland
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Poland reaffirms its stance to recognize and secure the liberties of all its citizens, including women in rural areas. Women living in these areas can often face challenges not normally found in urban areas, such as slower socioeconomic mobility, lack of safety, and impoverished resources. The dignity of women, even in the most rural of areas, shall be upheld. The Republic of Poland cherishes its citizens and strives to maintain and increase the well-being of all, through equal pay for equal work, health and safety, and clean food and water. Poland vows to devote time, resources, and awareness to the plights of women and girls in rural areas.
Country:Qatar
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Self-determination is the right of people to decide how they’re governed and to pursue their own political, social, and cultural development. It’s a key part of the United Nations and supports the idea that everyone should have the freedom to shape their future without outside interference. At the same time, this principle often overlaps with the idea of national sovereignty, which means it can be complicated when groups within a country want independence or more autonomy. Qatar sees self-determination as a basic human right and a condition for lasting peace. As His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani told the UN General Assembly, the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination “is neither a favor nor a gift from anyone.” (Amir of Qatar Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, 2024) Qatar has consistently called for an end to foreign occupation and supports a two-state solution that allows Palestine to establish an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Beyond Palestine, Qatar promotes peaceful resolution of conflicts in places like Syria, Sudan, Libya, and Yemen, and continues to act as a mediator between opposing parties. Qatar believes dialogue—not force—is the path to freedom and stability, and supports the United Nation’s efforts that protect the right of peoples to govern themselves while respecting state sovereignty and international law.
Country:Qatar
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
This issue focuses on improving the lives of women and girls in rural areas, where they often face more challenges than those in cities. These include limited access to schools, healthcare, technology, and job opportunities, which makes them more vulnerable to poverty, food insecurity, and climate change. At GA78, UN briefers told the Third Committee that the best rural programs combine food support, social protection, climate-resilient farming, and legal land access for women. Delegates made it clear that problems like conflict and climate change can’t be addressed if women are left out of decision-making. Qatar supports these global efforts and believes rural women and girls deserve full access to education, development, and leadership. Qatar has made progress expanding education for women. Programs like Education City and government scholarships have opened more doors, especially in STEM fields. These efforts are part of Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which promotes gender equality in both education and the workforce. In some areas, social expectations and guardianship laws limit women’s ability to study, work, or travel for school. This is even harder for stateless girls and migrant women, who may lack legal protection or face early marriage. Qatar supports reforms that break these barriers—improving rural education, increasing digital access, and making sure
all women have the freedom to learn and lead.
Country:Russian Federation
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The right of all peoples to self-determination in their own governing style is enshrined in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document which most Member States have agreed to. However, peoples across the world are living in oppression under governments that do not respect their culture, history, or rights. If the United Nations wishes to live up to its Charter which guarantees equal rights and self-determination for all peoples, it is imperative that Member States respect the rights of people to govern themselves.
The Russian Federation has consistently worked towards the accomplishment of the right of self-determination. The Soviet Union was a key part of Resolutions 1514 (XV) and Resolution 42/95, each unequivocally declaring this right and condemning the situations in South Africa and Palestine. The Russian Federation continues to support the Palestinian people and their right to a separate state under the principle of self-determination. The situation in other places formerly under the rule of colonial powers is equally fraught as peoples are trapped within boundaries that were imposed upon them with no mechanism by which to achieve their own sovereignty. Member States should condemn any instance of rule by a government that is not supported by its people and be attentive to the demands of these oppressed peoples. The right of self-determination must be upheld if the United Nations wishes to maintain its promise of peace and security across the world.
Country:Russian Federation
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Women make up over half of the world’s population, yet they are one of the most overlooked groups. Sustainable Development Goal 1: No Poverty states that the goal is to “end poverty and leave no one behind.” In order to do so, medical and educational resources in rural areas must be improved to give women and girls an equal chance in society. Many Member States have agreed to improve conditions for these less privileged groups, but very little progress has been made. Member States must continue to make active improvements on the situations for women and girls in rural areas to achieve the goals set by Sustainable Development Goals 1 and 5.
The Russian Federation has continued to make improvements and changes based on sex discrimination and disadvantages. More women are taking leadership and political roles in the Russian Federation, but one of the ultimate goals is to have them in more local governments. Literacy amongst individuals over the age of 15 in the Russian Federation is equal between men and women. The Russian Federation will work towards improving educational opportunities and access to assets, as well as decreasing the number of sexual violence and harassment for women and girls in rural areas, including other marginalized groups such as indigenous peoples. Member States must improve educational and medical infrastructure in rural areas to better the situations for women and girls in order to secure the safety of these most vulnerable peoples.
Country:Rwanda
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Rwanda stands firmly with the people's right to self-determination. Being rooted in the concept of freedom and autonomy, which enables individuals to establish their own identity, principles, and future. Based on the grievances of our past, we firmly believe we should push for diversity, not only in our political field, but in our nation and people as well. However, we will not tolerate opposition to our government. Our first concern is the safety and freedom of our citizens, and we will not allow any disruption of the unity that has taken many years to establish. We are strong because we are united, we choose to create bridges rather than walls, and we stand together in spite of conflict. Along with the “One UN” initiative, we support the role the UN has taken in rebuilding and helping fund improvements in Rwanda. We stand behind a position of peace and prosperity for our nation, one centered around the unity of our citizens.
Rwanda calls for the respect of culture and history in our journey towards democracy. We will continue to push for the prosperity of democracy as we have accepted the efforts of the UN in funding media outlets and other programs to keep the best interests of the Rwandan people and its government.
Country:Rwanda
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Having adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Rwanda emphasizes the need for women and girls to be recognized in rural settings. Despite being the backbone of family care and agriculture in many rural communities, women's efforts are not acknowledged, and they are not included in decision- making processes. Giving women equal access to land, resources, and training is essential to ensuring gender equality in these fields since it enhances not just their individual livelihoods but also the well-being of entire communities. Rural communities can see more social advancement, economic growth, and long-term sustainability when men and women have equal opportunity to lead and contribute. Rwanda has been working to close the gender gaps in both urban and rural areas, to strengthen communities, especially in the agricultural field, since around 70% of women work in this field. Rwanda supports projects backed by the UN World Food Programme that call for the education of women in business skills for the agricultural sphere. Along with the UN, we emphasize the need for support groups for women that break down barriers but keep our traditional views in mind as well. We also strive for the continued integration of women and girls in education, especially in rural areas, since education needs to be more accessible to them.
Rwanda would like to continue by supporting the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development agenda in empowering women and girls in rural areas. We have made progress so far in including women in the UN Joint Program on Rural Women’s Economic Empowerment, which has benefited them in strengthening rural income. The health, education, and safety of both women and girls in these areas should clearly be maintained as a priority as well through this agenda.
Country:Saudi Arabia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Delegation of Saudi Arabia recognises the right to self-determination and firmly encourages decolonisation efforts. The capacity to enter into relations and retain sovereignty and self-determination is a very prominent issue facing many nations and regions today. The Delegation of Saudi Arabia maintains strong support for the progressive development of regions in which need liberation from overreaching government and lack of representation. In specified terms, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia pushes for the establishment of Palestine in a two-state system. The priority of Saudi Arabia remains focus on addressing the self-determination of Palestine and Syria and ending the conflict in the surrounding areas. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia leans into the collaborative efforts of developing the Middle East. Additionally, the delegation of Saudi Arabia notes the pursuit of Middle Eastern collaboration seen in the establishment of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD). This organization facilitates relations and development within the Middle East and has taken large strides in the name of progressive development of neighboring countries. This organization has contributed to the social well-being and stability of over 80 countries. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is reported to be the fourth largest aid donor in Official Development Assistance (ODA). The Delegation of Saudi Arabia strongly encourages the international organizations to facilitate support, such as the organization Saudi Fund for Development. In order to support these countries, the constitutive recognition of these regions as sovereign states as diplomatic acts further the support from the international community. This support legitimizes these states to other nations, and providing aid through organizations such as these set up by the government of Saudi Arabia further operationalizes this proposed diplomatic recognition. The Delegation of Saudi Arabia pushes to increase the monetary support of these organizations and encourages the global community to claim recognition of these underrepresented peoples.
Country:Saudi Arabia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Delegation of Saudi Arabia asserts the notion of humanitarian aid in the name of cultural preservation. Under one of the fundamental sacred pillars of Islam, Zakat, the principle of charity is outlined in the name of Allah and our national sacred values. Our king, King Salman bin Abdulaziz created an organization which represents the practice of sadaqah, The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSRelief). This organization, in collaboration with UNICEF, has allocated funds to initiatives in pursuit of protecting women and children refuges and outreach programs targeting medical care for the vulnerable. These philanthropic incentives long preclude the establishment of this organization and is upheld by the very foundations of Islamic tradition, seen through sacred scripture and long-standing custom. This organization is merely an instrumental tool for the preservation of sacred beliefs and culture of Saudi Arabia. These are progressive developments within the infrastructure of the government convey cultural practices into larger scale initiatives and further contribute to the global welfare and nurtures relations between states. The well-being of rural family communities is an important factor in the agricultural systems of Saudi Arabia, which is recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. In an effort to empower the use of sustainable agricultural practices, Saudi Arabia is now implementing the Sustainable Rural Agricultural Development Program, which aims to improve modern farming practices, increase skills, and support women-led agricultural enterprises in the new age of farming. The curriculum covers essential topics such as plant growth, pest control, and business management while also emphasizing sustainable practices in order to conserve vital resources. The empowering of women entrepreneurs, specifically rural women and girls, showcases the efforts that Saudi Arabia is currently making in order for their businesses to thrive. Not only do these contributions result in success for the women, it also creates success in the overall agricultural production of Saudi Arabia, benefiting the entire country.
Country:Serbia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of Serbia recognizes the right to self-determination of each individual, provided that it is exercised in a manner consistent with the fundamental principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful resolution of disputes. Universalization of autonomy holding individuals may be accepted provided that there is a distinction between internal and external self-determination. Internal self-determination grants citizens the right to determine their own political, social, economic, and cultural systems without interference, while external self-determination, which can include secession from Serbia, will lead to instability and conflict in many regions around the world. Exercised within the constitutional and legal framework of Serbia, this arrangement aims to satisfy the population’s desire for self-rule and political participation without descending to full separation. An internal self- determination proposal, (“more than autonomy, less than independence”), was established in 1830 granting legislative and executive authority in local governance along with control over culture, education and social services in the population of Kosovo. The local self-rule component, (“more than autonomy”), included the right to pass laws in numerous non- sovereign domains such as social policy, local taxation, and local governments having greater control over their immediate affairs. Sovereignty retention, (areas of “less than independence”), incorporates control over external borders of the state, namely the border with Albania, which Kosovo recognizes as its own state border. Serbia also retains exclusive jurisdiction over all foreign relations, for instance, Kosovo isn’t permitted to sign treaties or establish diplomatic missions independently.
Country:Serbia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Serbia is proactive in the integration of gender equality into rural development. In efforts to provide benefits aimed towards women and girls in rural areas, the Serbian government has implemented tools such as the Gender-Responsive Budgeting (GRB) across all areas and levels of public finance to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources. This strategy values unpaid care work and advocates for investments in services like affordable childcare and improved water/sanitation. The bridging of service gaps also takes place in which all people, especially those in marginalized or remote communities, have fair access to quality public services: education, healthcare, and protection from violence. Civil society organizations, local women’s associations, and international partners, (UN Women and UNDP), collaborate with civil society and run projects directly supporting rural women’s organizations, establish networks, and provide resources and training.
Country:Sierra Leone
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
As internationally agreed upon, peoples should have the right to self-determination. Meanwhile, we as citizens of the world, must be able to keep sovereignty as a human right as well. We must find a balance between both to ensure stability and peace among all nations. Sierra Leone understands the interests to be self-governed and independent as this was the basis our country was established on itself. We stand for respecting territorial integrity, sovereignty of each nation, and want nothing but peace in the world. Concerning the Republic of Congo, the Ukrainian War, and any other current war, we support peacekeeping operations as innocent civilians are being targeted. No one’s territory or culture shall be erased through another nation. As mentioned in our draft resolution from October 1990, we have always highlighted the importance of the universal realization to the right of peoples to self-determination. Therefore, we support the principles of the United Nations Charter as well as the resolution of the United Nations including the exercise of the right to self-determination by peoples under colonial and foreign domination. We are pleased to remind everyone that we, as a nation, are strongly committed to unity and lasting peace worldwide. However, we stand united for a country’s sovereignty as a right as well. Therefore, in the example of the Ukraine, we support their fight for keeping their territorial ground and their culture as we understand the importance of having authority over your own nation. We, as Sierra Leoneans, strongly highlight that self-determination does not imply the dissolution of existing nation-states and cannot be misused to justify it. Consequently, we urge the United Nations to strengthen the right of self-determination while respecting the sovereignty of states and international peace. Finally, we strongly advise the United Nations to keep and spread more peacekeeping operations where needed.
Country:Sierra Leone
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Sierra Leone recognizes the indispensable contributions of rural women and girls to sustainable development and global equality. As a proud State Party to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and a firm supporter of Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality, Sierra Leone reaffirms its unwavering commitment to empowering, educating, and protecting rural women and girls worldwide. Despite their vital role, rural women continue to face systemic barriers to land ownership, inheritance, education, healthcare, and participation in decision-making processes, challenges further intensified by harmful practices such as child marriage and gender-based violence. Sierra Leone commends the United Nations’ efforts, particularly through General Assembly Resolution 76/146 (2021), to address these inequities and calls upon the international community to transform these commitments into measurable and lasting progress. The delegation emphasizes that improving the condition of rural women must begin with strengthening their legal, social, and economic status by guaranteeing equal property rights, ensuring access to quality education and healthcare, and advancing participation in climate-resilient agricultural initiatives. Moreover, Sierra Leone applauds the continued efforts of UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for their advocacy and technical support to rural communities. The Republic further urges Member States and UN agencies to enhance cooperation in eliminating child marriage, in accordance with Human Rights Council Resolution 29/8 (2015), and to promote inclusive community engagement that empowers rural women as agents of change. Ultimately, Sierra Leone believes that sustainable progress depends on both legal reform and expanded opportunities for education and leadership and remains steadfast in supporting international cooperation that guarantees the full realization of the rights and potential of rural women and girls as a foundation for peace, equality, and sustainable development worldwide.
Country:Slovenia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The term “self-determination” can be encompassed by the phrase “freedom for the people.” Within the UN Charter, self-determination is defined as the right of people to have freedom from external rule, the independence to choose their own government, and the freedoms and rights necessary to be an autonomous entity. As of 2025, Slovenia’s stance remains unchanged. The United Nations and the international community have a duty to ensure this right for all peoples, including those currently denied it.
Slovenia acknowledges the UN’s work in advancing this cause and plays a significant role in these efforts. This is evidenced by our recent voting history within the Third Committee. From 2017-2023, there have been four different resolutions within the Third Committee, three of them regarding Palestinian self-determination, and the most recent one: the global people’s right to self-determination. Throughout all four, Slovenia has voted yes. Beyond the most recent resolutions, Slovenia has consistently reinforced its position through subsequent GA3 debates and resolutions, in which we supported language recognizing that policies and practices in Occupied Gaza violate international law and deny the Palestinian peoples’ right to self-determination, as well as countless other marginalized people across the world. Our commitment does not stop at voting, as Slovenia has co-sponsored countless GA3 draft resolutions on the right to self- determination.
In our Declaration of Foreign Policy, we affirm that the self-determination of peoples is one of the cornerstones of a strong multilateral system, the very foundation upon which the United Nations was built. Our support for the right to self-determination transcends all manmade boundaries. The Constitution of the Republic of Slovenia explicitly mentions and expands upon this right, rooted in our own history as a sovereign and independent state emerging from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Having endured the struggles for self-determination under the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Yugoslavia, Slovenia stands as a nation that understands the value of this right. To stop at our own achievement of independence would be a disservice to humankind.
Country:Slovenia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The international community recognizes the ongoing struggle of women and girls in rural areas. Through the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995), and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the UN has established a framework to protect and empower the most marginalized demographic. Slovenia agrees and aligns with these principles, having signed and ratified CEDAW in 1992, as well as the 1995 Beijing Declaration, both of these within just three years of independence. These commitments have been further reinforced by integrating and embedding the UN Sustainable Development Goals of 2030, framed as the Slovenian Development Strategy of 2030.
Since gaining independence in 1991, Slovenia has prioritized equality in all aspects of society. Social cohesion and sustainable rural development have been central to our nation-building process. From early reforms in the 1990s to the present, we have pursued the empowerment of women, particularly those in rural and agricultural communities, recognizing it as essential to social and economic progress.
Many rural communities once faced limited access to education, healthcare, and employment. In recent years, however, these communities have benefited from comprehensive national and EU-supported programs aimed at promoting equal participation and opportunity. Initiatives such as the National Programme for Equality between Women and Men and the WE GREEN project exemplify Slovenia’s commitment to improving the socioeconomic conditions of women and girls in rural areas.
In accordance with UN resolutions on this matter, Slovenia recognizes that the effort to improve the situation of women and girls in rural areas must continue. We remain committed to ensuring that women and girls worldwide have equal opportunities to thrive.
Country:Somalia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The United Nations principle of self-determination has been long valued topic, and the Federal Republic of Somalia recognizes the responsibility of allowing citizens to freely determine political, social, cultural and even economic distinctions, voting recently in favor of self-determination rights on A/RES/42/95: “Importance of the universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination and of the speedy granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples for the effective guarantee and observance of human rights.” This has been a fundamental issue and continues to be of upmost importance to the United Nations. The Somalian government ensures its commitment to its citizens and continues to maintain a strong identity as a nation. The Federal Republic of Somalia has long supported the right of peoples to self-determination, specifically in territories such as Palestine and those under colonial rule and or foreign occupation. Making efforts as a nation through legislation as well in unity, Somalia as a nation seeks federalism upholding international community and to then uphold the right of self-determination. The Federal Republic of Somalia proposes that the United Nations can help monitor progress in the implementation of self-determination but also ask for respect from the international body of the United Nations that all member states maintain the right to maintain state sovereignty. Somalia looks forward to discussing the right of self-determination and navigating innovative solutions to ensure it is upheld requesting funding for improvement of the resolution, suggestions of both economic aid as well as developmental aid for outreach programs to aid the principle of self-determination amongst the citizens of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Country:Somalia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
In rural areas in all aspects of the world, women and girls deal with gender-based violence and female genital mutilations, affecting their way of life. The Federal Republic of Somalia strongly supports improving the situation of women and girls in rural areas. UN Resolution A/RES/79/225 aims to eradicate rural poverty, working with the Food and Agriculture Organization on the implementation and follow-up on the issue of rural poverty. The Federal Republic of Somalia rose in support of this resolution, as many women and girls are in poverty due to issues with gender-based violence and female genital mutilation, along with the lack of human rights. Getting rid of rural poverty helps with gender inequality. Domestically, the Federal Republic of Somalia supports the improvement of this issue via our constitution, which aims to provide women and girls with equal opportunities within the country. Article 15 of the Constitution states that each person within the Federal Republic of Somalia has the right to personal security. It further disagrees with the circumcision of women, also known as female genital mutilation. These laws show the Federal Republic of Somalia’s commitment to improving the situation of women and girls in rural areas by directly addressing gender-based violence and female genital mutilation, whilst still maintaining the grounds of state sovereignty. The Federal Republic of Somalia wishes to combat this issue further by increasing funding for UN Women to help prevent gender- based violence and female genital mutilation within rural areas of the world. The Federal Republic of Somalia is hopeful to improve the situation via collaboration with other countries.
Country:South Africa
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
South Africa has been a diplomatic force for the region sense 1994, attempting to keep the peace in the area. Regarding the universal realization of the right peoples to self-determination, South African recognizes the right of all people to create their own destiny and to pursue their own economic development for their country. Additionally, they emphasize national unity within countries and reject segregation.
Having been granted independence with guidance and support from the United Nations, South Africa is in support of the United Nations helping other countries in their own self-determination. They have continually and consistently advocated for the rights of countries undergoing occupation as South Africa was in that position until 1910 and then still struggled for full independence until 1961 when South Africa was freed from the British Commonwealth. In the Freedom Charter of South Africa, which was adopted in 1955, it is stated that, “South Africa shall be a fully independent state which respects the rights and sovereignty of all nations.”
To further help countries seeking self-determination in addition to other international issues, South Africa believes there should be a more representative and inclusive Security Council as there is a historical imbalance of power in the UNSC. The permanent membership is still reflective of the global power dynamics of 1945, which causes Africa to be excluded from this high-profile decision making. South Africa argues that with a more inclusive approach to the security council, it will be better suited to handle disputes that come with self-determination. We believe that this unequal representation is a factor that hinders the international community.
With the continents of Asia, Europe, and North America having a permanent place in the UNSC and South America, Africa, and Oceania having only rotating places, an unequal power distribution is created. South Africa, being a prominent player in Africa, believe that they should have a permanent place on the council as they are better suited to deal with issues, such as violence from self-determination, that are occurring within Africa. It is believed within the country that if there was equal representation, the UNSC would continue to remain relevant and be able to help new countries emerge more efficiently.
Country:South Africa
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
South Africa has many disparities between genders. Women in the country are known to face economic inequalities, patriarchal attitudes, implementation gaps, lack of services and the biggest problem, gender-based violence (GBV). Gender-based violence has become such a large issue in the country that the South African government has been focusing on how to decrease this rate rather than on women and girls in rural areas. Although the constitution of South Africa does state how they believe in gender equality and attempt to protect the rights of women, gender-based violence has been high for the last ten years but spiked higher during the pandemic. In response to these issues, South Africa has been working to improve the situation and decrease the GBV rates through actions such as legislative reforms, establishing a ninety-day acceleration program, and implementing support services for the women how have experienced this violence. South Africa believes that official and administrative evidence-based data is needed to help close the gender gap.
South Africa believes that the UN can help close this gender gap by strengthening their support from the already existing gender equality efforts, and by including women in on important decision-making roles. Additional South Africa believes that looking inward and making improvements to prevent the femicide that has been plaguing the country will further improve their ability to help women outside of urban areas. This can be done through open conversations between groups, getting more traditionalist lawmakers to change their perspectives, involving both men and women in these conversations so both perspectives are represented, and simply allowing their citizens to continue advocating on behalf of women’s rights.
While South Africa isn’t fully ready to address the issue of women and girls in rural areas, they are still open to these conversations. It is simply believed by delegates that they cannot focus on rural areas when there are so many problems with urban areas currently. However, hopefully in the coming years, in South Africa gender-based violent rates will decline and allow the government to focus on the disparities that women and girls specifically in rural areas face.
Country:Spain
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Access to self-determination has the potential to drastically improve the status of living of a multitude of groups of people as economic and social policies become cultivated to their specific needs. The Kingdom of Spain stands with those fighting for region-specific self-determination while recognizing the importance of state bodies and their right to maintain sovereignty within their borders. Through the decentralization of governing bodies and executive, legislative, and judicial powers, there is an increased collaboration to increase equitable opportunities and standards of care among their constituents. Such an organization of power simultaneously ensures the mitigation of large scale conflicts as it permits regional based solutions and perpetuates a sense of international diplomatic relations. Self-determination has been a historical foundation for many communities as different states seek to respect the sovereignty of others through rulings such as the 1960 Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples which states the importance of self determination in the perpetuation of economic, social, and cultural equity. The Kingdom of Spain also recognizes that while self-determination is vital to the longevity of sovereign statehood, the current state of self-determination for a multitude of peoples on a global scale is deplorable in nature and must remain a center focus of this body and the United Nations. With recent expanding threats to the self-determination of certain groups, the United Nations has been able to effectively pass 79/163, The Right of the Palestinian People to Self-Determination which sought to reaffirm the palestinian people's right to self determination and ensure the United Nations members emphasize the importance of this practice. At a time when self-determination is more important than ever, the state of self-determination is reportedly worsening and must be addressed by this body immediately
Country:Spain
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The current state of the situation of women and girls in rural areas is reprehensible and continues to pose a significant challenge to the global community in terms of resolution. While there has been a high degree of improvement through a number of resolutions enacted by the United Nations, there is still a significant amount of work to be done in terms of healthcare equity, education equity, employment equity, and protection overall. These disproportionate barriers require the United Nations to prioritize this topic, and in particular, the Third Social Committee in ensuring a higher quality of life for all constituents. This committee should continue to build off previously established UN frameworks like the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action to establish a standard to ensure equity and improvement in the situation of women and girls in rural areas. With a multi-faceted approach targeting the current healthcare disparities, educational disparities, and vocational training for these communities to allow for a much needed improvement in the current system.
Country:Sri Lanka
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
As a nation formerly under colonial rule, the Republic of Sri Lanka understands the necessity of self-determination intimately. First from the Portuguese (1505-1658), then the Dutch (1658–1796), and finally the British (1796–1900), Sri Lanka is no stranger to incursions on its society, economy, and culture; it believes deeply in the ability of nations to self-determination. It is a right that the United Nations prioritizes at the highest level, and appears in the very first article of the UN charter. The UN states its aim to “develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, and to take other appropriate measures to strengthen universal peace.” (Art. 1 (2) UN Charter). This focus on self-determination in response to the mass decolonization following the Second World War is an incredibly personal and pertinent goal to aspire towards.
Country:Sri Lanka
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Sri Lanka, as one of the 189 signatories of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, is dedicated fully to the national and global progress of women. The Declaration, “...the world’s most comprehensive, visionary plan ever created to achieve the equal rights of ALL women and girls”, according to the UN Sustainable Development Group, cements Sri Lanka’s commitment to ensuring protections and support for women and girls. That being said, it recognizes the recent crises from the past decade and the added pressure and strain that instability has caused Sri Lankan citizens and communities, and the additional burden women and girls in rural areas have had to endure: namely, the 2022 economic crisis following COVID-19, in addition to continued climate volatility due to climate change. Even with these challenges, Sri Lanka has championed international women’s rights at every opportunity and looks forward to reasserting itself as a leader in equal rights and suffrage.
Country:State of Palestine (Observer)
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Contention on the issue of self-determination lies within imperialism in the 19th-20th centuries. Imperialist powers throughout the world at those times colonized and exploited a plethora of nations throughout the world and some of those imperial powers continue to exploit other nations throughout the world. The western powers harvest the raw materials of nations from the global south to fuel their economies and industries; this practice destabilizes and robs other nations of their resources and violates their human rights all across the globe. Those currently on top of the global pecking order wish to maintain their positions of global dominance. It is well within the memories of living peoples across the globe of exploitation and colonization of their homelands. Due to this, many nations across the world find themselves passionate about the issue of self determination; as well as of other nations who find themselves politically and economically under the thumb of western powers. The United Nations is a perfect avenue for the issue of self-determination. In Article 1.2 of the United Nations charter it says “To develop friendly nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.” General Assembly resolution 1514 titled “Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples” which aimed to end “The subjection of peoples to alien subjugation.” Regarding the matter of whether or not this resolution was successful, the results are mixed. The ending of direct subjugation of many nations was accomplished. However there are many nations across the world that still find themselves under the thumb of other powers, namely Palestine. The United Nations can assist the cause of self-determination through advocacy, diplomatic pressure, and actions undertaken by singular UN member-states.
Country:State of Palestine (Observer)
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The State of Palestine, as a signatory of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, stands firm in its belief that women and girls shall have every right as somebody of the opposite sex. Throughout Palestine’s history, we have worked for equal rights for women; through this The General Union of Palestinian Women was created in 1965 (as part of the PLO) as a way to integrate women into the workforce as well as in policy making decisions. The Ministry of Women’s Affairs was established in 2003 to expand upon Palestine’s commitment to the advancement of the situation of women in Palestine and to formally adopt UN resolutions pertaining to as such going forward. The social advancement of women in Palestine revolves around the foreign policy decisions of Israel, seeing just as its tremendously hard to work or care regarding one's rights when your nation is subject to genocide. The state of Palestine wants to work towards expanding the rights, resources and progress of women in rural areas at home and abroad, and wishes to work on resolutions to advance solutions to this issue. Using the 1995 Beijing Declaration as a blueprint, following the precedent that CEDAW set to create plans and pieces of legislation to support women. Through the expansion of funding for programs regarding expanding education and resources for women. In our justice system, Palestine has a framework put together to help ensure that discrimination against women is halted, however due to Israeli occupation, our justice system is largely inoperable. It’s seen as a non-negotiable aspect for the advancement of women’s rights in Palestine that the Israeli occupation ends, and the killing of innocent Palestinians must be halted immediately. Foreign aid to help rebuild vital infrastructure revolving around women is also highly needed.
Country:Sudan
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Sudan is facing a terrible humanitarian crisis due to the outbreak of civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Sudan has been having persistent issues regarding political marginalization of the south, ethnic and religious tensions, and conflict over resources.
Prior to the recent conflict, Sudan has had a series of civil wars and various complications that has only kept the nation weak. This includes the 2003 Darfur conflict when the Janjaweed fought against the non-Arab rebels in Darfur, resulting in hundreds of thousands of people dead or displaced. Furthermore, Sudan has faced severe floods, droughts, and famine connected to climate change and war.
Omar al-Bashir governed Sudan for 30 years until the Sudanese people demanded his removal with large protests and the support of the SAF. Although the citizens fought for democracy, the Sudanese government was overthrown in a coup due to its weak transitional period. Shortly after, Sudan was faced with violent and armed conflict between the SAF and RSF. Thousands of citizens are being killed or displaced, in addition to enduring various adversities such as disease and famine. As for the concern of Sudanese women, all citizens are suffering equally and are in need of vital services.
The Rapid Support Forces are a powerful paramilitary group that attempted to integrate in the Sudanese Armed Forces, leading to disagreement and conflict. The RSF have external support and funds such as access to weapons making it easier for them to gain control over regions in Sudan such as Darfur and Kordofan. They have military and political power as well as control of valuable assets that are economically significant such as gold mines.
The SAF is attempting to withdraw the Rapid Support Forces from occupied areas and reclaim key territories. Inflicting damage can be done by using air and drone strikes to reduce troop losses, regrouping our forces, ​​recruiting new troops, and exhausting the RSF’s resources. The delegation of Sudan is asking for support, not foreign interference or efforts to further ruin Sudan.
The delegation of Sudan urges that all parties to the conflict ensure civilians be protected by removing citizens from certain locations safely . We call upon the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) for quick, safe, and sustained passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need. With the aim of stopping the escalation of the conflict, we have decided to halt a siege by attempting to force the removal of the attacking army (RSF) to further prevent their occupation and attack.
Country:Sudan
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Deeply concerned by the ongoing years of the civil war have resulted in devastating consequences which have caused mass displacements-fleeing from their homes and having their homes destroyed itself–, destruction of infrastructures, and the disruption of livelihoods and essential services to the people of Sudan, the delegation also speaks of the fact that the situation affects all people—men, women and children alike. Recognizing that the humanitarian crisis is the direct result of the civil war- war itself and instability- has proven to participate as the basic barriers to national recovery, it is emphasized again that the health and stability of the nation is the primary concern which must be the restoration of peace and stability in the nation.
Remembering that women and girls in the rural parts of the country, as everywhere in the world, have shown the ability to meet adversity for a long period of time, provide for their families and administer their communities, Sudan indicates that the strength and resolution of women is but a manifestation of the common struggle of mankind in time of crisis. However, in this time of widespread unrest and violence that none is free from evil; that all suffering caused by war does not discriminate one’s gender.
Recognizing that it is not from lack of pressure that we have resulted in the prevailing humanitarian troubles, but from the devastating effects of war, Sudan indicates that the only way in which there can be an end to the humanitarian troubles, is through the cessation of armed conflict. The delegation wishes to express its sincere concern to see that the continuing struggles continue to cause great suffering to the people of Sudan and burden their path towards peace, recovery and national unity.
Sudan emphasizes the universal right of all people of the world to live in peace, dignity and security, we call to the attention of the nations of the world to the fact that settlements of the conflict must be the one humanitarian necessity.
Country:Sweden
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The right of peoples to self-determination is a fundamental principle of international law, enshrined in Article 1 of both the UN Charter and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). It affirms that all peoples have the right to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural development. The realization of this right is essential for international peace, stability, and human rights.
Despite progress over decades, many communities—especially Indigenous peoples, occupied territories, and ethnic minorities—still face political marginalization, cultural suppression, and economic inequality. Conflicts over autonomy, colonization legacies, and territorial disputes continue to hinder the universal implementation of self-determination. The United Nations has adopted resolutions such as GA Resolution 1514 (XV) on granting independence to colonial countries and peoples, and Resolution 2625 (XXV) on principles of friendly relations among states. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 16, emphasizes promoting peaceful and inclusive societies and ensuring equal participation in decision-making.
Sweden firmly upholds the universal right of peoples to self-determination as a core principle of international law and the UN Charter. This right is essential for peace, democracy, and sustainable development. Sweden believes all peoples must have the freedom to determine their political, economic, social, and cultural future without external interference. In its foreign policy, Sweden supports peaceful realization of self-determination through dialogue, inclusive governance, and respect for human rights. Sweden’s recognition of Palestine in 2014 reflects its commitment to international law and supporting peoples striving for legitimate self-governance. Sweden also promotes Indigenous rights in accordance with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), emphasizing participation and equality within national frameworks.
Sweden calls upon the international community to ensure that self-determination is realized through peaceful means, democratic participation, and multilateral cooperation. It encourages the UN and all Member States to work together to protect human dignity and uphold freedom and justice for all peoples. Sweden also proposes specific actions, including addressing self-determination movements through peaceful dialogue and UN mediation, supporting Indigenous and minority participation in decision-making, and strengthening UN monitoring and reporting mechanisms. Member States are encouraged to share best practices, promote education on international law, and cooperate through multilateral channels to prevent conflicts arising from self-determination disputes.
Country:Sweden
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Approximately one-fourth of the world’s population are women and girls living in rural areas. They play a key role in agriculture, food security, and community development, yet face inequalities in access to land, credit, education, and technology. Poor infrastructure, such as unsafe water, limited transportation, and unreliable electricity, increases their caregiving burden and limits participation in education and economic life. Rural girls are also at higher risk of school dropout, child marriage, and gender-based violence.
The United Nations has long focused on improving the situation of rural women and girls. Article 14 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) requires States to guarantee rural women’s equal rights in education, health, and economic activities. This issue is closely linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). UN Women and the FAO continue to promote programs supporting land rights, education, and economic empowerment.
Sweden believes that empowering rural women and girls is central to achieving gender equality and sustainable rural development. Many women still face barriers in land ownership, financial services, and technology. Guided by its Feminist Foreign Policy and Policy for Global Development, Sweden integrates gender equality into all agricultural and development cooperation. Domestically, Sweden supports women-led farming, climate-smart agriculture, and digital innovation, and invests in education and research to encourage young women’s participation in green and digital transitions.
Internationally, Sweden collaborates with UN Women, FAO, and IFAD to strengthen rural women’s economic rights and decision-making, particularly in Africa and Asia. It calls on all Member States to take concrete action, ensuring rural women and girls have equal access to land, technology, education, and leadership opportunities in line with SDG 2, SDG 5, and SDG 13.
Sweden encourages Member States to include gender perspectives in agricultural policies, secure women’s land rights and equal pay, and increase funding and training for sustainable farming. It also supports expanding access to credit, insurance, and market information. In collaboration with IFAD, Sweden proposes regional “Women in Agriculture Hubs” to connect women producers with buyers and cooperatives. Finally, Sweden urges the UN and Member States to improve rural education and digital infrastructure, especially for girls, so they can participate fully in e-learning, entrepreneurship, and sustainable agricultural innovation.
Country:Switzerland
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
We are committed to working under the guidelines enshrined within the United Nations Charter (UNC). Article 1 and Article 1 section 2 of the UNC reads: “The Purposes of the United Nations are… To develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples, and to take other appropriate measures to strengthen universal peace.”
Moreover, we second the language in Article 55 and emphasize that this committee should, in regards to respecting the principle of self-determination of peoples, promote: "Higher standards of living, full employment, and conditions of economic and social progress and development… solutions to international economic, social, health, and related problems… and international cultural and educational cooperation."
Domestically, we are home to numerous international law-making institutions and have a long history of championing international law. We are a party to many international treaties, alongside the United Nations Charter, most importantly being the The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and The International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR). We are also party to many United Nations specialized agencies… these include but are not limited to… The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) and The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (ICRMW).
We hope to further work with like-minded delegations and neighboring European countries who are party to the European Union to further develop the need for Member States to adopt certain protections for dependent territories. We also welcome other valuable perspectives. This approach safeguards their rights as outlined within the UN Charter. For each resolution, we also want to ensure we follow the guidelines regarding the right to self-determination outlined by the covenants: the ICCPR and ICESCR.
Country:Switzerland
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Switzerland strongly supports the improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas, as this is essential for achieving gender equality and sustainable development. Rural women make up nearly a quarter of the global population and are vital to agriculture, food security, and environmental protection. Yet, they continue to face systemic barriers such as limited access to education, land ownership, healthcare, and financial resources. Addressing these inequalities is key to the realization of human rights and the advancement of communities.
We reaffirm our commitment to international frameworks such as we are party to the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). We also reaffirm our support for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development—particularly Goals 5 and 10. Switzerland has co-sponsored several major General Assembly resolutions on this topic, including resolution 78/181 (2023), which emphasizes economic inclusion, digital access, and climate resilience for rural women.
Domestically, we continue to promote gender equality through legislation supporting women’s economic independence and participation in local and national governance. Internationally, we collaborate with UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development to advance rural development programs that prioritize women’s empowerment and opportunity.
We encourage Member States to strengthen the implementation of CEDAW Article 14 by ensuring rural women’s equal access to land, resources, and decision-making. We also support renewed funding and cooperation for UN programmes that uplift rural communities. Switzerland remains dedicated to advancing gender equality as a foundation for human rights, sustainable progress, and global stability.
Country:Syrian Arab Republic
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Self-determination continues to be challenged by occupations, foreign intervention, and misuse of humanitarian principles for political gain. Supported in the UN charters by the 1960 Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples. This document highlighted the right for individuals to freely determine their own political, social, and cultural development. The occupation of territories and the denial of political autonomy violates international law and obstruct peace, as reaffirmed by the 1979 UN document, Right of Self-Determination of the Palestinian People. External influences affect regions beyond limiting sovereignty; they erode dignity, identity, and spirit.
Inseparable from the protection of independence, national integrity, and sovereignty. It is our firm belief that self-determination cannot be achieved until foreign intervention and unilateral oppressive measures are put to an end. Imposed sanctions beyond the mandates ofthe Security Council violate principles and hinder national recovery. These actions are unjust to states seeking to empower themselves. The Palestinians are an example of this, where external dominations erode the desire of people to shape their own lives. Therefore, we stress that self-determination must emerge from nationally led conversation and compromise freeing people from external manipulation.
Endorsements for the renewal of multilateral cooperation, neutrality on humanitarian assistance, and strengthened resources to stop exploitation to allow self-determination. This includes stopping foreign military occupations, lifting unlawful sanctions, and supporting reconstruction without conditions. Individuals seeking autonomy means equitable access to resources that are a necessary foundation in individuals day to day lives. To achieve these goals, nations should collaborate on reconstruction partnerships that prioritize development and ensure national ownership and accountability, for example: Expanding vocational and entrepreneurship training, strengthening economic independence, promoting transparent governance and equal access to education and healthcare to empower individuals, and allowing individuals to have a voice in governance and development of their nation.
Country:Syrian Arab Republic
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Decades of ongoing conflict has left thousands of women and girls around the world facing devastating humanitarian crises, particularly in rural areas. Rural areas where basic economic equality, healthcare, and education is rarely found or supported. Not only is access to basic supplies disproportionate, today women and girls in rural areas face an increased number of intimate violence, rape, and food insecurity. As such, these actions clearly violate a number of human rights outlined in the Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948. Nonetheless, at least 60% of Syrian women and girls living in rural areas depend on agriculture for their livelihood. On-going climate crisis of desertification, deforestation, and extreme weather events have been a direct cause of food instability. As a country who has suffered over fourteen years of civil war, we are no strangers to what women and girls in rural areas face. The Syria Arab Republic reaffirms its commitment to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), complete support to achieving Sustainable Development Goal Number Three, and maintains its National Strategy for the Advancement of Women. Syria Arab Republic’s ongoing efforts to promote the importance of the situation of rural women and girls, we propose the following: 1. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency programs for women-led households and farming cooperatives; 2. Vocational training centers offered by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), focusing on agriculture, textiles, and small-scale production; 3. Mobile education and healthcare units in rural communities; 4. Awareness campaigns to prevent gender-based violence through community and religious leaders, as those implemented in Syria: Stand Against Rape. Provided all efforts of support are without external interference, Syria stands ready to cooperate with the UN and its partners to advance the rights and well-being of rural women and girls.
Country:Türkiye
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Türkiye believes that self-determination, a key right of the UN Charter, is necessary for the continuation and improvement of global peace. However, there are numerous historical examples where self-determination has led to fracture, destruction, and death. In Central Africa, South Asia, Interwar Eastern Europe, and Latin America thousands have been killed as new nations resolve border disputes following their independence. Türkiye believes that this death is reprehensible and must be avoided at all costs. Thus, the issue of self-determination should be approached peacefully, through diplomatic and cooperative means to guarantee war is avoided. National sovereignty must be maintained and protected. Foreign force interventions within sovereign nations are a breach of the UN principle of national sovereignty. Problems should be solved through collaboration, discussion, and debate, without sending in armed soldiers. As written by S/RES/2788, the use of force in conflict resolution is prohibited. If one violently intervenes in the domestic affairs of another state, they are violating the norms and values of the United Nations, which this body must acknowledge. Türkiye applauds its neighbors, who have set excellent examples in how to deal with parties that desire self-determination. In Iraq, the government fought its own war for self-determination against terrorist forces and has maintained stability while groups inside its nation are slaughtering civilians and neglecting peaceful alternatives. Türkiye believes that the right to self-determination is guaranteed when disputes are interstate, and international borders are established. This places these issues under the jurisdiction of the United Nations, while issues inside a country’s borders are within the jurisdiction of that country only. Türkiye believes that the place of the United Nations should be what is specified in its Charter, international diplomacy and bettering humanity without interfering in the internal affairs of other nations. To rid the world of hunger, poverty, and lack of sanitation, relating to Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, and 6, it is imperative that war is prevented. In Türkiye, we have been managing our internal disputes diplomatically and thus doing our part to further the SDGs. If nations desire self-determination and break out in armed rebellion, this destabilizes the world and limits our ability to pursue worldwide goals. Thus, the United Nations should not interfere in the affairs of independent, sovereign states.
Country:Türkiye
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
Türkiye acknowledges that the situation of women and girls in rural areas is an essential topic which needs to be discussed. Access to education, personal security, and health are essential rights for women and girls and should not be obstructed. In many rural areas, access to healthcare is limited, hospitals are far from the population, and there are significant financial challenges to health infrastructure. This is why Türkiye decided to work in collaboration with UNWOMEN, through programs focusing on women's health and nourishment, preventing violence against women, and empowering refugees and civil society organizations in order to promote the safety and security of women and girls in rural areas. Too often however, international organizations seek to impose cultural norms on member states that violate traditional cultures and ways of life. Safety and security should be the concern of this body, not destroying culture. Thus, Türkiye believes that this body should focus on advancing the safety and security of women and girls in rural areas. A right to water is guaranteed in United Nations Resolution 76/153 and yet many areas still suffer from water scarcity. Rural areas, due to their limited water-sanitation facilities are hit hard by water scarcity as people are forced to drink unclean and unsafe sources of water. Women are especially hit hard, as they are over double as likely to retrieve water for their households than men. If there are no clean sources of water nearby, women must travel farther each day to retrieve water, preventing them from pursuing other ventures. Food resources may also be sparse in rural areas, and women are likely to suffer from malnutrition. Without these basic resources, women are stripped of their dignity. A study by the International Labor Organization found that 56% of rural areas worldwide lack basic healthcare. Türkiye would look kindly upon this body working together to provide rural areas with hospitals, clinics, and transportation so that women can have access to healthcare when they need it. If we spend our time debating whether cultures should be destroyed to further secular values, we are actively letting women die. This body should focus on key necessities that women lack, such as water, food, and medicine, not identity politics.
Country:Thailand
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Kingdom of Thailand reaffirms that the right of peoples to self-determination is fundamental to achieving peace, promoting human rights, and fostering development. Enshrined in the UN Charter and both International Covenants on Human Rights, this principle ensures that all peoples freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social, and cultural advancement. Thailand recognizes that the full realization of this right must be aligned with respect for national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Thailand’s experience as a multi-ethnic, constitutional monarchy demonstrates that inclusion and development can coexist with national unity. The Government continues to advance participation of all communities through decentralization, cultural preservation, and equitable access to education and economic opportunity. Thailand believes that the UN should promote self-determination through dialogue and capacity-building rather than confrontation. The international community must prioritize mediation, peacebuilding, and development assistance to support regions emerging from colonialism or conflict. Thailand supports cooperation among Member States to share best practices and strengthen national institutions that uphold inclusive governance. To this end, Thailand encourages the Third Committee to reaffirm the right of self- determination as a universal principle linked to the Sustainable Development Goals. Thailand proposes enhancing UN technical support for inclusive political processes and endorses voluntary trust funds for post-self-determination state-building. Guided by mutual respect and international law, Thailand remains committed to advancing self-determination in a manner that sustains peace, stability, and human dignity for all peoples.
Country:Thailand
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
As the world speaks proudly of progress, too many women and girls in rural communities are still denied the right to shape their own destiny. Thailand refuses to accept a future where those who cultivate our fields, raise our children, and hold together the heart of a nation are left without equal power or equal voice. True peace cannot exist where half of humanity is expected to endure silence. The struggle of rural women is a struggle for justice, and Thailand will not stand idle while that struggle continues. Across Asia and across the world, rural women wake before dawn to work the land and sustain their families, yet too many are still denied ownership of that land and excluded from the decisions that govern their lives. They suffer most from poverty, climate change, exploitation, and trafficking. These are not natural conditions. They are systems maintained by neglect and tradition, and Thailand believes those systems must be confronted and broken. Equality is not granted through patience but secured through courage, investment, and protection. Development that ignores rural women is not development. It is deception.
Thailand calls on the international community to invest in rural education, in digital access that connects villages to opportunity, and in economic independence that allows women to rise without permission. Laws must protect their land, their labor, and their bodies from violence, discrimination, and exploitation. Nations that benefit from the resilience of rural women must finally honor their dignity with power.
Thailand rejects a world that asks women to feed societies while starving their futures. We choose a world built on their strength instead of their suffering. Let history remember us not for the injustices we explained away, but for the chains we shattered. The time for symbolic concern has passed. The liberation of rural women is not a hopeful idea. It is an urgent demand, and Thailand stands prepared to fight for it.
Country:United Arab Emirates
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recognizes the United Nations faces a unique challenge in supporting both state sovereignty and the right of peoples to self-determination. In accordance with Article 1(2) of the UN Charter, the United Nations is responsible for promoting “friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples.” However, the United Nations is to also uphold the principle of state sovereignty, reflected in Article 2(7) of the UN Charter, which affirms that the United Nations may not intervene in matters within the domestic jurisdiction of any state. The UAE stands with both peoples right to self-determination and a state’s right to sovereignty. However, when conflicts of those principles occur, reconciliation can only be achieved through sustained diplomatic negotiation and respect for international law.
The UAE firmly supports the right of peoples to self-determination, as reflected in our long- standing support for the Palestinian people. Consistent with the Arab Peace Initiative and our 2024 statement to the International Court of Justice, the UAE advocates for a sovereign Palestinian state, achieved through dialogue and adherence to international law.
Accordingly, the UAE calls on the United Nations to expand UN-led mediation processes and enhance monitoring and reporting on violations of international law. Together, these measures would reinforce the United Nations’ capacity to facilitate peaceful settlements and uphold the integrity of international law in matters of self-determination. Additionally, we call on the international community to resolve disputes through the International Court of Justice or arbitration, in accordance with Article 33 of the UN Charter. This approach promotes peaceful resolution through dialogue rather than confrontation, which also ensures that disputes are settled within the framework of international law. The UAE reaffirms that protecting the right of peoples to self-determination is essential to maintaining peace, stability, and the rule of international law.
Country:United Arab Emirates
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) recognizes that empowering women and girls in rural areas is essential to achieving sustainable development and equality globally. Despite decades of progress, rural women still face barriers in education, employment, and decision-making. This issue has been recognized by the international community for decades. In 1979, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which highlighted rural women and girls as a group needing particular attention because of ongoing social and economic barriers.
The UAE understands that the challenges facing women in rural areas are universal, having once confronted similar barriers ourselves. Through reform, the UAE has strengthened legal protections for women and expanded opportunities in both the workforce and public life. This progress shows that real change is possible when it is treated as a national priority.
Our experience shows that progress is achievable, and we urge other Member States to pursue similar reforms. With only five more years before the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), not a one indicator under goal five of gender equality has been fully achieved.
The UAE calls on the United Nations and the international community to renew their commitment to gender equality by expanding education and job training for women in rural areas, increasing access to financial resources, and expanding access to technology to help rural women access economic opportunities and leadership roles. These actions would equip women with the skills and resources needed to participate fully in their economies and communities. The UAE also calls for greater cooperation among the United Nations, governments, and the private sector to invest in programs for rural women that are coordinated and responsive to their local needs. Empowering women and girls in these communities is essential to achieving the 2030 SDGs and building a more inclusive and equitable world.
Country:United Kingdom
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The United Kingdom recognizes the rights of people to self-determination. The United Kingdom agrees with the principle that states should have sovereignty over themselves and strives to preserve that belief. The United Kingdom continues to believe that independent states have the innate right to choose their own form of government and political governance. The United Kingdom also acknowledges the importance of nations without states and ensuring that those individuals are protected. The delegation of the United Kingdom looks forward to an open discussion on how fellow member states can work together in the General Assembly to further the rights of people to self-determination.
Country:United Kingdom
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The United Kingdom recognizes that the rights of women and girls in rural areas are a major matter of concern throughout the world. The United Kingdom strives to ensure women's rights are met across all social and political environments and are protected. The United Kingdom aims to find solutions to the problems that women around the globe face daily. This includes increasing education for women, ensuring equal access to resources, preventing violence against women and girls, and investing in and innovating water collection processes. The United Kingdom looks favorably on implementing policies that better protect women and girls in rural areas throughout different societies. The United Kingdom wishes to eradicate the practice of child bridehood as well as the practice of female genital mutilation. The delegation of the United Kingdom finds women and girls to be vital members of society who deserve to have rights. This delegation looks forward to discussing with the members of the General Assembly on how to improve the lives of women and girls in rural areas.
Country:Uzbekistan
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Uzbekistan firmly upholds the universal realization of the right of peoples to self- determination as a cornerstone of the United Nations Charter and a vital foundation for peace, justice, and equality among nations. Uzbekistan believes that all peoples should have the opportunity to determine their political status and pursue their development freely, in full accordance with international law.
At the same time, Uzbekistan emphasizes that self-determination must be realized within the framework of state sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Uzbekistan Constitution clearly establishes the principles of sovereign equality, non-interference, and respect for national unity.These values reflect Uzbekistan’s conviction that stability and harmony can only be achieved when the right to self-determination complements, rather than conflicts with, the preservation of existing state boundaries.
Uzbekistan’s active engagement in the United Nations demonstrates its commitment to these principles. By co-sponsoring resolutions such as A/73/588, Uzbekistan has consistently supported global recognition of self-determination as a collective human right. Furthermore, through its Universal Periodic Review submissions, Uzbekistan has reaffirmed its adherence to international human rights standards and its efforts to integrate these principles into national legislation.
However, Uzbekistan cautions against the misuse of self-determination claims to justify separatism or external interference. The delegation calls on the international community to ensure that this right is exercised responsibly by promoting inclusive governance, national dialogue, and socioeconomic development within the bounds of sovereignty and law.
The Republic of Uzbekistan urges Member States to strengthen cooperation in safeguarding both the right to self-determination and the principle of territorial integrity, ensuring that together they serve as instruments of peace, stability, and mutual respect among nations.
Country:Uzbekistan
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Republic of Uzbekistan reaffirms its strong commitment to improving the situation of women and girls in rural areas, in full alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality. Uzbekistan recognizes that empowering rural women is essential to achieving inclusive economic growth, sustainable development, and social cohesion.
Uzbekistan’s national strategy prioritizes gender-responsive rural development, combining economic inclusion with infrastructure modernization. Through the United Nations Development Programme Sustainable Rural Development Project, supported by the Islamic Development Bank and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries Fund, Uzbekistan is enhancing access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities in regions such as Bukhara and Vabkent. These initiatives have created new jobs for women, improved local infrastructure, and reduced migration pressures by ensuring equal access to essential services. The Government of Uzbekistan also cooperates with the Food and Agriculture Organization and the State Forestry Agency to strengthen women’s roles in forest- dependent communities. Since 2019, over 400 rural women have been trained in eco-friendly handicrafts and sustainable resource management. National policy targets aim to increase female leadership in forestry institutions to 20% and to ensure that 30% of forestry program graduates are women which would link environmental sustainability with gender equality.
Furthermore, the World Bank’s Rural Infrastructure Development Project empowers women to participate in community decision-making while improving access to water, power, and childcare facilities for nearly one million rural residents. The Gender Action Plan for Sustainable Forest Management institutionalizes gender analysis in policymaking and supports traditional crafts as viable sources of income.
Uzbekistan calls upon the international community to strengthen partnerships that promote women’s education, economic empowerment, and leadership in rural areas, ensuring that sustainable development truly benefits all members of society.
Country:Venezuela
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The topics before the third Committee are the Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination, and Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is committed to ensuring the well-being of all states through the work of this agency. It looks forward to productive and substantial work with fellow member states.
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela is committed to working with the international community to promote the realization of the rights of peoples to self-determination. Venezuela believes that the right to self-determination is a prerequisite for human freedom. In 1999, Venezuela drafted into its constitution in the first article the nation's right to national self- determination as one of Venezuela's renounceable rights. This foundation has served Venezuela on many accounts, as well as set up guidelines for Venezuela to become a prominent advocate for the right of self-determination among the global community. As recently as last July, Venezuela led the charge in creating the International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures. Venezuela led this UN resolution as a means to unite the international community in condemning sanctions that could lead to humanitarian harm. Venezuela's efforts do not end here, as in May of 2024, Venezuela hosted a seminar entitled Pursuing goals and addressing needs of the Non-Self-Governing Territories. This seminar for the United Nations was a great moment for the international community to recognize the humanitarian harm that results from attacks on self-determination. Together, we can build a world where the Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination is prioritized and where sovereignty prevails over imperialism.
Country:Venezuela
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela understands that women and girls in rural areas face many challenges, especially in places where poverty, distance, and economic problems make life harder. Many rural and Indigenous communities in Venezuela depend on farming and natural resources to survive. However, recent economic struggles and outside pressures have made things more difficult and have increased gender inequality. Women in rural areas often can’t access good healthcare, education, or job opportunities. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), there are major shortages of medicine and doctors, which has led to higher rates of maternal and teenage pregnancies. In regions like Bolívar and Amazonas, illegal mining and the presence of armed groups have also put women and girls at greater risk of violence, exploitation, and trafficking. Even with these challenges, the Venezuelan government is working to improve equality, support women’s rights, and empower women and girls in communities across the country.
Country:Viet Nam
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
Viet Nam firmly holds to the human right of self-determination as stated by the UN Charter for Human Rights. As global conflicts continue, Viet Nam stands with the United Nations in the pursuit of a peaceful tomorrow. As a nation that has fought for self-determination, we emphasize the importance of sovereignty and independence for every people group, as affirmed by resolution A/RES/52/113. Remembering our country’s struggle for this right, Viet Nam stands firm with UN efforts towards a globally recognized right to self-determination as embodied in proposals such as the “Two-State Solution" for Israel and Palestine. Viet Nam calls for the United Nations to continue supporting a harmonious global climate by encouraging States to be “duty bearers” as called for in resolution A/HRC/59/L.17. Supporting states must band together to combat abusive powers and ensure that people groups have the ability to be agents of their own self-determination.
Country:Viet Nam
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
We firmly believe in the prioritization of gender equality and enhancing the role and status of women and girls. Viet Nam reaffirms The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and maintains its commitment to the UN and ASEAN countries. We reaffirm the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the strongest consensus for advancing and protecting Women’s rights. However, we recognize the need for continued improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas. We call for the U.N. to be an instrumental factor in an efficient, lasting change on the situation of women in rural areas. We recognize that further economic advancement is necessary for women in developing states. Viet Nam affirms its commitment to further gender equality efforts as outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Millennium Development Goals. Women and girls must have educational and employment opportunities equal to men and boys to ensure independence and safety. We call on all nation states to take ownership of this pledge to better the lives of women and girls in rural areas.
Country:Zambia
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
According to the UN, there are currently 17 non-self-governing territories, or roughly 2 million people, without the right to self-governance. All African states uphold their commitment to self-determination through Article 20 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, where it stresses the inalienable right to self-determination. As the first southern African country to gain independence from colonial rule, the Republic of Zambia laid out its support for human rights through the 1969 Lusaka Manifesto (previously the Manifesto on Southern Africa). Zambia reaffirms its commitment to self-determination through the enactment of the Access to Information Act (2023), which calls for the right of all persons to have access to any information that allows them to protect or exercise their basic human rights. Zambia honors this commitment through its partnership with the Women’s Initiatives That Strengthen and Empower (WISE), which focuses on educating people to understand and promote true self-determination. WISE demonstrates this dedication by providing scholarships that cover the tuition, room and board, transportation, and supplies of students over a nine-year period. Such autonomy to make decisions and practice free expressions allows one the right to control their political, economic, and social development, core components of self-determination. Zambia urges Member States to cooperate within regional areas to expand partnerships with organizations like WISE to further people's meaningful participation and self-determination. Zambia incites willing and able Member States to mobilize funds made by voluntary contributions through the Global Partnership for Education. Donations towards organizations such as WISE that prioritize educating citizens through the funding of education paths will further the community's understanding of their right to self-determination and freedom of expression for all.
Country:Zambia
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
According to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women), one in every ten women in the world lives in extreme poverty. UN Women stated that climate change will leave more than 236 million women and girls worldwide hungry by the year 2030. The Republic of Zambia recognises this threat posed to women and girls internationally and is committed to solving it as seen by the ratification of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women in 1985.
Zambia upholds Article 4(I) of the Constitutive Act, which highlights a key principle of the African Union, promoting gender equality. Zambia further exemplifies this principle through the Girls Education and Women Empowerment and Livelihoods (GEWEL) Programme in partnership with the World Bank (WB). GEWEL prioritises promoting women's livelihoods, specifically with their attached programme, Supporting Women’s Livelihoods (SWL). SWL focuses on skill training women with practical life and financial skills with the help of Community-Based Volunteers. Along with strengthening their saving initiatives with help from the government to personal payments, which deliver grants to a financial institution to oversee, allowing women to oversee and have control of their funds.
Zambia strongly believes that enacting programmes like GEWEL and SWL will further assist Member States in the promotion of women’s financial independence and equality of opportunity. Member States can be financially and physically supported through collaboration with the WB and UN Women to further facilitate these programmes. The advancement of gender equality and women's empowerment will not only help us take a step towards Sustainable Development Goal 5 but will, in addition, help us reach and maintain a future with peace and prosperity for all.
Country:Zimbabwe
Topic: Universal realization of the right of peoples to self-determination
Paper text:
The Republic of Zimbabwe reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles included in the Charter of the United Nations, particularly the sovereign equality of Member States, non- intervention in domestic affairs, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, each of which falls under A/C.3/65/L.51. Forged through a liberation struggle lasting over a century, ending in 1980, Zimbabwe views sovereignty not merely as a legal construct but as a foundational pillar of national dignity and self-determination. Zimbabwe opposes foreign military involvement that circumvents multilateral consensus or undermines the autonomy of under the pretext of humanitarian intervention or governance change. This position is present through Zimbabwe’s support of the African Union’s adoption of the Lomé Declaration of July 2000, which outlines a continental framework for responding to unconstitutional changes in government. Zimbabwean doctrine emphasizes “Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo”, which translates to “A nation is built by its own people”, reinforcing our belief that development and security must be citizen-led and sovereignty- driven. Zimbabwe prioritizes territorial integrity and internal stability over external projection. Furthermore, Mabvunga reports that Zimbabwe estimates it has lost over $150 billion in potential revenue and investment due to sanctions imposed by the European Union and other Western countries since 2001. These sanctions, lacking endorsement from the United Nations Security Council, violate the spirit of multilateralism and disproportionately target the civilian population. The consistent application of politically motivated sanctions not only contravenes international law but also perpetuates structural inequality among Member States. Continued silence or passive endorsement of these coercive measures threatens to normalize economic warfare as a tool of diplomacy, undermining the credibility of the United Nations and weakening the global commitment to equitable development. True self-determination cannot exist under conditions of economic coercion and external interference. As such, Zimbabwe believes that the committee should continue to reaffirm and uphold the principles included in the A/C.3/65/L.51 draft
Country:Zimbabwe
Topic: Improvement of the situation of women and girls in rural areas
Paper text:
In pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and Vision 2030, the Republic of Zimbabwe recognizes that empowering rural women and girls and protecting their fundamental freedoms is essential to achieving national growth.They continue to face limited access to education, economic marginalization, cultural stigmatization, child marriage, and reduced opportunities. To illustrate, child marriage affects over 12 million girls under the age of 18 globally every year. Additionally, 55% of children who are unable to complete upper secondary school are female. Out of uneducated or unskilled women aged 20 to 24 years, who were married by the age of 24, 70% of women who did not attend school were married between the ages of 15 to 18. In response to these challenges, Zimbabwe has responded with many constitutional reforms, national efforts, and partnerships with UN agencies to address them. The National Gender Policy and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) aligns with our country’s and many others' collective determination, as outlined in Vision 2030, to pave the way for a better Zimbabwe. NDS1 will ensure equal access to education, financial inclusion, and encourage women to take on leadership roles through the implementation of national projects and strengthening existing laws. Furthermore, we support the General Assembly Resolution 78/181, which calls on all Member States to strengthen national efforts and international cooperation to improve the situation of rural women and girls by increasing investments in education and economic empowerment. By supporting the advancements of women and girls in rural areas, we affirm our commitment to building a newer, more resilient, and inclusive future, with opportunities for everyone.
Back to the list of committees

Support AMUN to accelerate the development of future leaders

AMUN is a non-profit that continues to grow with the help from people like you!
DONATE